What are the signs of cams that arent properly timed? I have just about changed everything on my built motor to find the source of my powerloss, and I'm still stumped.... (turbo, injectors, ecu, ignition wires...) however when I run 14psi my car only pulls like it did at 5-6psi. If the cams are retarded back too far, would this be a cause for major powerloss? Ive been told by shops that it is possiable, and was curious if you all agree.

 

retarded timing = power loss

 

So when the dealership put my head back on, they probably didnt set my cam timing correctly, which is making me lose A LOT of power? Is there a visual way to tell?

(remember my turbo is new, my compression is 180lbs on all 4, my engine HAS fuel, and runs 11.8)

 

timing is definately off it sounds like. and by that i mean cam timing.

 

Only way to check the intake cam is to pull the cam cover. The exhaust cam can be checked by removing the timing belt cover and looking to see if the pulley lines up with the marks on the block when at TDC.

Checking to see if the cam is aligned properly to the cam pulley is a totally different problem.

Just out of curiosity, how do you know the car is pulling the same?

 

Your timing can't be that far out, if the cams are off more than 7 degrees the check engine light will come on.

 

hmmm what the heck can it be then.... if the cam timing cant be that far off whats causing me to have literally no power at boost. Ive had the ecu reflashed, ive swapped it out from another turbo tiburon who is making 350whp, ive replaced my entire turbo, ive swapped my ignition wires.... IM STUMPED! You sure it cant be my cams??

 

Go over the timing... if retarded more than 5 degrees it will lag allot...

 

Fordfaster mentioned to me that advancing your cam timing promotes a very minor hp gain from when he did that to his turbo setup. Now, if advancing doesnt do much, retarding your timing will actually hurt your motor (in terms of performance) while advancing will do nothing (besides add a few hp and allow the engine to run normal)... do I have this right?



has that happened to you before?

 

Fordfasterr never had a turbo setup (he did but never installed it), that guy has changed a lot since back then and i probably feeding BS to you. don't listen to him.