Davis Bellew If you’re a Subaru owner, you’re probably familiar with the EJ253 engine. This engine is commonly found in Subaru Impreza, Forester, Legacy, and Outback models. Over time, the camshaft journals in the EJ253 heads can wear down, causing problems with engine performance. If you’re experiencing issues with your engine, you may be wondering if it’s possible to machine the camshaft journals in your EJ253 heads. In this article, we’ll discuss whether or not it’s possible to machine the camshaft journals in your EJ253 heads and provide you with other essential information related to the topic.
Key Takeaways
- Machining the camshaft journals in your EJ253 heads is possible, but it requires advanced skills and equipment.
- You should take your heads to a professional machine shop for machining.
- Machining can restore the camshaft journals to their original specifications and improve engine performance.
- If the camshaft journals are severely damaged or worn, replacement heads may be necessary.
Machining Camshaft Journals in EJ253 Heads
Machining the camshaft journals in your EJ253 heads is possible, but it’s not a job for the average DIY mechanic. The process requires specialized equipment and advanced skills, and any mistakes made during the procedure can cause even more significant issues with your engine. For this reason, it’s highly recommended that you take your heads to a professional machine shop for machining.
When you take your heads to a machine shop, the technician will remove the camshafts and inspect the journals for damage or wear. If the damage is minor or moderate, the technician will use a specialized machine to remove a small amount of material from the journals, restoring them to their original specifications. Machining the camshaft journals can improve engine performance by reducing friction and allowing the camshafts to move more smoothly.
Signs that Your Camshaft Journals Need Machining
If you’re experiencing issues with your engine, you may be wondering if the camshaft journals in your EJ253 heads need machining. Here are some common signs that your camshaft journals need machining:
- Loud clicking or ticking noises coming from the engine.
- Reduced engine performance, such as a decrease in horsepower or acceleration.
- Rough idling or stalling when the engine is at idle.
- Increased oil consumption or oil leaks.
- Check engine light is on with codes related to camshaft position.
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, you should take your vehicle to a mechanic for inspection. Your mechanic will be able to diagnose the issue and determine if machining the camshaft journals is necessary.
When to Replace Heads instead of Machining
In some cases, machining the camshaft journals is not enough to restore your engine’s performance. If the journals are severely damaged or worn, replacement heads may be necessary. Here are some situations where replacement heads may be necessary:
- The camshaft journals are severely worn or damaged beyond repair.
- The head has been previously machined, and further machining would cause clearance issues.
- The head has cracks or other damage that cannot be repaired by machining.
If your mechanic determines that your engine needs replacement heads, they will be able to recommend the best course of action for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to machine camshaft journals?
The cost of machining camshaft journals varies depending on the machine shop you use and the extent of the damage to the journals. On average, you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 for this service.
Can you machine a camshaft journal without removing the head?
No, it is not possible to machine a camshaft journal without removing the head. The camshaft must be removed from the head before machining can take place.
How long does it take to machine camshaft journals?
The time it takes to machine camshaft journals varies depending on the machine shop you use and the extent of the damage to the journals. On average, you can expect the process to take between 2 and 4 hours.
Can you drive with worn camshaft journals?
Driving with worn camshaft journals can cause serious damage to your engine and should be avoided. If you suspect that your camshaft journals are worn or damaged, you should take your vehicle to a mechanic for inspection as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Machining the camshaft journals in your EJ253 heads is possible and can improve engine performance. However, it’s a job that should be left to the professionals due to the advanced skills and specialized equipment required. If you’re experiencing issues with your engine, take your vehicle to a mechanic for inspection. Your technician will be able to diagnose the issue and determine if machining the camshaft journals is necessary. Remember, prevention is better than cure, so always prioritize regular engine maintenance to avoid significant engine problems.
