Function of the Camshaft in Cars, Components and How It Works
In the working system of the engine, there are various important components that assist the performance of the system, including the camshaft. This component is known in the automotive world as the camshaft. The main function of the camshaft is indeed to open the valves in the car.
However, this component also has other functions. The camshaft has its own way of working in carrying out its tasks. To understand the functions and workings of this component further, let’s take a look at the following review.
Functions of the Camshaft in Cars
The optimal performance of the engine actually requires assistance from the camshaft. This component has many functions in the car. Here are the complete functions.
1. Opening and closing car valves (klep or valve)
The camshaft functions as the opener and closer of the car valves according to the firing order. The moments of opening and closing the valves are also adjusted to the needs of the cylinder. When the cylinder is in the exhaust stroke, the camshaft automatically provides a push to the exhaust valve so that the valve opens. In cars, the position of the camshaft varies because it is designed to follow the firing order.
2. Rotating the distributor shaft
The camshaft also functions as the rotator of the distributor shaft in the ignition system. This condition usually occurs in conventional engine vehicles that still use an ignition distributor. The relationship between the camshaft and the distributor is realized thanks to the help of the drive gear and split join.
3. Driving the fuel pump
The camshaft also functions to drive the fuel pump optimally in older car models.
4. Place for the camshaft position sensor
The camshaft also serves as a place (container) for the camshaft position sensor. This sensor is usually embedded in modern cars with EFI systems. With the help of engine management, this sensor can be used to detect engine performance.
Components of the Camshaft
The success of the camshaft in carrying out its functions is indeed due to the assistance of other components as follows.
1. Intake camshaft
The component of the camshaft named intake camshaft functions as the camshaft shaft and serves to open the rocker arm by pushing the valve. The opened rocker arm will greatly assist the process of fuel entering the valve.
2. Exhaust camshaft
This component functions to close the valve after the fuel intake process so that there is no more fuel intake process. Subsequently, the exhaust gases from the remnants of the engine combustion will be released.
3. Slot joint
The slot joint or eccentric gear functions as a direct link between the ignition distributor and the camshaft shaft.
4. Fuel pump cam drive
This component functions to drive the car's fuel pump to ensure optimal engine performance.
5. Drive gear
This component functions to rotate the intake camshaft when the camshaft operates according to the specified rhythm.
6. Bearing journal
This component functions to minimize engine wear due to friction between camshaft components.
7. Timing pulley
This component functions to regulate the rhythm of the camshaft rotation according to the specified rhythm and tempo. This way, the engine can work well and according to the firing order.
How the Camshaft Works
In terms of its working mechanism, the camshaft has two ways of working. Here’s a more detailed explanation.
1. When in the pressing position
When in the pressing position, the cam lobe will open and close the valve with the help of the rocker arm and camshaft working mechanism. This working method can be found in vehicles with OHC (SOHC or DOHC) and OHV engines.
2. When not in the pressing position
In this position, the cam lobe will not press the rocker arm due to the dominance of the camshaft.
That’s how the camshaft works that you need to know. Given its crucial functions, you need to pay attention to the condition of all camshaft components. If there are issues with this component, symptoms such as fuel inefficiency, engine stalling, poor car performance, and the engine indicator light staying on may arise. If these conditions occur, immediately service your car at a Daihatsu workshop.
