The function of the camshaft in a car should not be underestimated as it can affect engine performance. Therefore, as a car owner, it is essential to understand the ins and outs of the camshaft. Below, we will explain the functions, how it works, and the components within it in detail. Here is a complete review.

Function of the Car Camshaft 

The car camshaft is a component located in the cylinder head of the car engine. This component has several important functions as follows.

1. Valve Regulator

The camshaft has the primary function of regulating the valves to match the firing order. Inside the camshaft, there are cam lobes that open and close the valves. 

2. Distributor Shaft Driver

The next function of the camshaft is to drive the distributor shaft in engines with a firing order system with a distributor.

3. Fuel Pump Driver

The next function is as a driver for the fuel pump in car engines that still use mechanical fuel pumps. 

4. Camshaft Rotation Angle Detection Sensor Holder

The next function is that the camshaft serves as a holder for the rotation angle detection sensor. This function usually occurs in cars that already use fuel injection or EFI engines. 

How the Camshaft Works in a Car

After you know some functions of the camshaft, you also need to understand how this component works. The working mechanism of the camshaft itself is divided into two methods. Here is the complete working method.

1. When in Pressing Position

The camshaft operates in both pressing and non-pressing positions. In the pressing mechanism, the valves are opened and closed by the cam lobes utilizing the performance of the camshaft along with the rocker arm. This process usually occurs in OHV and OHC engines (DOHC or SOHC). 

2. When in Non-Pressing Position

In the non-pressing position, the flat part of the camshaft works dominantly, so the cam lobe does not apply pressure on the rocker arm. Thus, the valves tend to remain closed. 

Read Also: Function of the Crankshaft, How It Works & Signs of Damage

Important Components of the Car Camshaft

For the camshaft to function properly, this component is supported by other components within it. Here are some components found in the camshaft that you need to know.

1. Intake Camshaft

The first component within the camshaft that you need to know is the intake. This component is also often referred to as the camshaft or cam lobe. It is located at the end of the camshaft and is oval in shape. This component functions to push the valves so that the rocker arm can open. This allows fuel to enter the valves.

2. Exhaust Camshaft

The next component is the exhaust camshaft, which functions to close the valves after the intake process. This prevents fuel from entering again and allows exhaust gases from the engine combustion to be expelled.

3. Drive Gear

This component functions to rotate the camshaft to match the tempo during the camshaft's working mechanism.

4. Eccentric Gear (Slot Joint)

This component serves as the connection between the camshaft and the ignition distributor directly.

5. Bearing Journal

This component functions to reduce engine wear by minimizing friction between the camshaft and other components. 

6. Timing Pulley

This component functions to regulate the rhythm or the speed of the camshaft rotation to match the tempo. This ensures that the engine performance runs smoothly and does not deviate from the firing order. 

7. Fuel Pump Cam Drive

This component serves as the driver for the fuel pump so that the engine can operate effectively. 

After reading the above review, you now have a better understanding of the workings, functions, and components of the camshaft as a whole. Immediately take your car to the nearest Daihatsu workshop if the check engine light comes on, the engine suddenly dies, fuel consumption is high, or the car's acceleration drastically decreases. These conditions are usually signs that the car's camshaft is having problems.