Installing camshaft caps correctly is essential to your engine’s performance and longevity. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or tackling a DIY engine rebuild, knowing how to install camshaft caps properly will help ensure smooth camshaft rotation, proper sealing, and optimal combustion. At Engine Bits, we supply high-quality, affordable engine parts – including camshafts and camshaft caps – worldwide. Here’s a clear and simple guide to get it done right

Before starting, gather the following:

• Torque wrench
• Socket set
• Clean cloths or rags
• Engine assembly lubricant
• Shop air compressor (optional but ideal for cleaning)
• OEM-spec camshaft caps from Engine Bits

Use a clean cloth or compressed air to remove any debris, oil, or residue from the camshaft saddles in the cylinder head.

• This step prevents contamination and ensures proper seating of the camshaft caps.
• Pay extra attention to oil passages – blocked passages can lead to premature wear or engine failure.

Pro Tip: Never skip cleaning, especially when replacing old or damaged parts.

Before placing the camshaft caps, apply a thin layer of engine assembly lube to the camshaft journals. This reduces friction during the first engine start-up and prevents dry starts.

• Make sure the lubricant is evenly applied.
• Don’t use regular oil – assembly lube is designed to stay in place and offer protection under pressure.

Gently place the camshaft into the cylinder head, ensuring it’s aligned correctly. Then, install each camshaft cap in the correct orientation and position. Camshaft caps are typically marked (e.g., 1, 2, 3 or IN/EX for intake/exhaust).

• Important: Never mix up the order. Caps must go back exactly where they came from or follow the manufacturer’s diagram.
• Finger-tighten bolts first to ensure proper alignment.

Tip from Engine Bits: Use OEM-style caps for perfect fitment and long-term durability.

Using your torque wrench, tighten the camshaft cap bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque spec.

• Tighten in stages, working from the centre caps outwards in a criss-cross pattern.
• This prevents warping or uneven pressure on the camshaft.

If you’re using Engine Bits camshaft caps, check our product page or installation guide for exact torque settings.

Once installed and torqued, rotate the camshaft by hand (without lifters or rocker arms in place). It should turn smoothly with no resistance.

• If you feel binding or tight spots, stop and double-check alignment and torque.
• This step confirms that the caps are installed properly and the camshaft is not under stress.

Camshaft caps are often overlooked—but cheap, worn, or incorrect ones can ruin your rebuild. Always choose OEM-spec, high-performance parts like those offered by Engine Bits. We ship globally and specialise in affordable, brand-new surplus engine components that meet or exceed manufacturer specs.

Knowing how to install camshaft caps is a small but crucial step in any engine rebuild. Correct installation ensures proper camshaft alignment, smooth engine operation, and long-term durability.

At Engine Bits, we’re proud to provide mechanics, rebuilders, and enthusiasts with high-quality camshaft caps and related parts – no middlemen, no inflated prices. Just the best engine parts shipped worldwide.

Browse our camshaft caps and engine rebuild parts at Engine Bits. Whether you’re building for power, reliability or both – we’ve got your engine covered.