How To Set Cam Timing

[@loganfouts1025]

Anybody else watching this 11 years later?

[@DexGains]

Jupp

[@KAOSshortyrip]

14

[@waveya1105]

15

[@BillyBoblovesthedirt]

15

[@Dookie_burner]

Still watching in August 2024

[@bryanmicklewright8600]

Thank you im 13 and you hellped me fix my demon x125 as i can only do 2strokes till watched this how to set timing

[@aidanzollner5101]

tried this for like 2 hours then found this video and did it in 15 min thanks!

[@Broxty]

Easiest timing video on youtube, only thing I would suggest is adding a quick clip of checking you're tappets. Subd.

[@digitaltamer]

Great video. I am actually just trying to change a gasket, but I cannot figure out how to get the sprocket off. I have a similar engine and I have the 3 bolts out, but cannot figure out how to pull the sprocket off. You made it look so simple and I saw another video of a guy using needle nose, but I can't get it to budge. What am I doing wrong?

[@TheAlexManVideos]

There is a 10 mm head bolt directly opposite the center of the cover on the clutch side of the engine. It goes all the way through and hold the cover on.

[@lotus4218]

Great video but I have a question. Where on earth did you get that small of a torque wrench or is that just an adapter? Either way, I need one for doing the same project.

[@sijen69]

Hi Alex great video, I have just replaced my head gasket and had the valves reseated, I have put everything back together, but it won't start, it feels like there is no compression...I put it at TDC, then the cam sprocket is out, so I took the chain off and corrected it so both are lining up, and it just won't start. If I move the alternator nut should the camshaft sprocket move, because it doesn't, could the chain have slipped? Also when it is at TDC and the camshaft is in line with true mark should there be play in the sprocket even when the tensioner is on...I know this is something simple to fix, but...Yamaha xt125x

[@noahlyden17]

thank you so much its hard to find anything on engine timing for atc 70;s

[@munsif55]

well, right procedure is to actually see the cam shaft,s position , u need to confirm wether cam shaft is completely closed , or one is open and other is closed

[@deeph46]

Thx for the video, it really helps me out. Q: If all timing marks have alligned and the camshaft only have two sprocket bolt holes. Do the bolts can be anywhere between the two holes? Vise versa?

[@Zieronn]

I'm having trouble with my second hand YX140 4-stroke engine. Because it's a second hand engine I've revised the carburetor and changed/renewed everything that was needed ( oil, gasoline, gaskets, rubbers, sparkplug, etc,... ). When I tried to start the engine for the first time, during summer, it fired up right away. But after the first start it's alwasy been hard to start the engine when cold, never when the engine was at operating temperature. Besides the starting problem there were no problems when I was driving around. Well, the engine didn't idle regularly but other than that no problems. When summer was over and it got colder it was even harder to get the engine running. The last time I went for a ride, during winter, again hard to start, no problems while driving when the engine was cold but the moment the engine warmed up, the rpm went up when idling and the engine stalled. I've set the valve clearance, changed the CDI and ignition coil but still it's very hard to start the engine.... The engine fired up two times, stalled right away and after that the kickstarter kicked back constantly so I gave up... What could it be?

[@feero9680]

i know your comment is 4 years ago but did you manage to find out the reason why?

[@TheAlexManVideos]

If the performance dropped after you tried to set the cam timing then I would assume you did it in correctly. The engine is designed to have the cam at a certain position relative to the crank, that position is only possible when the cam is correctly timed.

[@TheAlexManVideos]

@cobrachoppergirl To do this on a 4 stroke engine you do it exactly as shown. This would not ever apply to a 2 stroke. You don't break the chain. There is a cam chain tensioner somewhere. You loosen that as far as possible and then the chain will have enough slack to be lifted over the sprocket.

[@Dookie_burner]

I applied this to my 2 stroke rotary suzuki water Buffalo.

[@dannystratton7712]

Thank you Alex man! You helped me for sure, I was one tooth off.

[@teoflores289]

Great video would like to see a video on dismantling and rebuilding it

[@brammichielsen6091]

I fixed my pitbike with this. thank you very much

[@dshine55]

Alex you are the BEST!!!!!!!!!! thanks

[@ColinBurnside]

Nice work there is a self tension adjuster for the cam chain. It needs to be slackened off and re tightened.

[@ColinBurnside]

David Norris If you stop the video at one second. You will see a drain pipe coming form the bottom of the float bowl and running down the side of the barrel. To the left of this pipe as you look at it, you will see an hexagonal bolt going into the side of the barrel. Just under the cylinder head bolting position. That,s the cam chain tensioner.

[@ColinBurnside]

David Norris There is a cam chain wheel here. Before removing the head and the cam shaft etc. You have to slacken off the bolt to allow the cam chain to slacken. Some engines not sure about this one. Have a built in self adjusting tensioner in the crank case which has a bolt on the underside of this side of the crankcase . Which you can slacken off as well. Its like a smaller drain sump bung.

[@ColinBurnside]

No these engines can be tuned to the Gills but they don,t last to long then, i worked on them for years a good starting point but over engineered.

[@TheAlexManVideos]

I know they were originall installed on some models, if not all. I do not know what year they started putting them in or if they were there all along. The purpose of the plate is to decrease the area of the oil passage exiting the cam. This increases oil pressure in the cam and helps lubricate the cam lobes.

[@chrismoore-harris9012]

Very helpful video! Thanks a lot!!

[@michelelavett2466]

great video. very easy to understand and follow. thanks. don't have one for valve lash adjustment, do ya? my step-son's 97 xr 70r is consistantly flooding after coming off full throttle and have dinked with the carb numerous times and replaced nearly every "wearablel item" in the thing. Was acting similar when we 1st got it 6mos ago + low on compression. I adjusted them then @.003int and .005exh. Bumped up the compression and seemed to help alot with the flooding. exh was real loose then

[@Sean.skipper]

How do you set your piston in time with the cam I have the T mark and the sprocket mark lined up where there supposed to be but the piston is hitting the valves ?

[@TheAlexManVideos]

During installation, the cam lobes should be pointed towards the piston so the valves are completely closed. In this position, the cam sprocket should be installed with the circle pointing towards the notch in the head.

[@dogdogg3336]

How would you close the cam if the head is off?

[@dogdogg3336]

I means the valves closed

[@NCmtnDweller]

Thank u Exactly what I needed to know

[@connorsloat8661]

Hey I have a 07 crf50 I have spark timing is set vavles were they need and the carb is clean won't even start on starter fluid could u help me out I'm stumped

[@poeskharen]

Thanks man! I wasnt sure i timed it correctly, but now i do!

[@R70yd]

you're teaching alignment but the way you focus your cam is very fast so how can the viewer can follow thanks

[@Branman50314]

good video, i just but a new cylinder head on my 110cc dirt bike and the carb has a lot of suction and if the air filters on it will shut off and if it runs for like an hour oil will drip out some were could you tell me why its doing that it didn't do it with the old cylinder head. if you could try and help me out with this that would be great. Thank you

[@TheAlexManVideos]

Timing adjustments can be made with the motor in the bike. Check the cam timing, if that is fine, try retarding the ignition timing a bit. If that doesn't work, your motor just has a lot of compression and that's a good thing.

[@timothychituck7559]

Nice, there are intelligent videos out there!

[@Frederik19951995]

Do you have a video where you DISAMBLE cylinder and cylinderhead? Would be very helpful!

[@Arendtservice]

What needs to be checked when the chain is off by a half link> is it in the cam, does it need to be replaced?

[@randy1ization]

IF its 180 it will run, but blow fuel out the carb , possibly catch fire, and almost burn your shed down. ask me how I know this.

[@TheAlexManVideos]

There is no such thing as 180 out on these engines. The ignition runs off the crank, not the cam and is a wasted spark ignition.

[@randy1ization]

yes but the cam controls the valve timing, and if its firing when the valves arent in the right position, it causes backfire.

[@TheAlexManVideos]

crackbadger man 180 off will not cause any issues. This is a wasted spark engine so there is no such thing as 180 out. If the cam timing is set wrong then it's not 180 out, it's just wrong.

[@randy1ization]

alex the bolts that hold the cam sprocket on are off set, they are that way so the cam lobes correspond correctly with the sprocket position. If the cam is 180 out it will fire at the wrong time. the intake valve only opens one time every OTHER revolution if the flywheel.

[@randy1ization]

most have no CDI., they are points motors. all before 82 I believe

[@BigRichEHhthang100]

Should I rotate cam clockwise till the cam stops

[@Sledluva213]

yo alex man great videos but im havin timing problems with my honda 185s atc would it be the same ?

[@KTM-ye7xt]

Thank you this helped me alot

[@TheAlexManVideos]

It uses a different engine so the procedure is most likely different. You must find the timing marks and line them up. A factory service manual will help you.

[@jlkoelker]

Thanks! I got an engine with the marking 180 degrees from the notch. trying to trouble shoot why there is hardly any room for clearance adjustment on the tappets. they are slightly pushed down at tdc and if I set it to clearance at that point, they go up further at firing position and tap tap tap. could I be off a tooth?

[@unkoistheking]

hey buddy, you have some great videos. but i need help with timing my 110cc 4 speed lifan engine. i need to know @ what position should the cam shaft be relative to the TDC marks?

[@TommyMx]

thanks just fixed my 06 crf70f

[@izaiahtyler3385]

Instablaster...

[@Camvba]

Lol

[@NCmtnDweller]

Would a 1970 Honda CL 70 require that plate also ? Mine is 6 volt but almost identical motor

[@griggsb]

@TheAlexManVideos Great Videos.. How much slack should I have in cam chain on my atc70? If I rock flywheel (withoug moving cam) I have tons of slop. I posted a video today of it. Thanks for any help.

[@CasondraEvans]

How do you know where to put the linkage on the right side of the motorcycle where the kickstarter is

[@Mr10usdad]

Great video!

[@MrStijnH]

Hi Alex, got a question. How do you remove the metal cirkel on the cilinderhead before you can even do this? And how do you put it back on again?

[@glennspeeds]

You said that cam “pressure plate” is for oil pressure. Why is it that TB says it is not necessary to run it with their kit?

[@savageflux]

hey man i have a 110cc pit bike....so if your cam timing is off even if by one tooth could it cause backfiring through the carb an loss of revs?.... im having this prob it will idel great but i cant rev the motor without killing it and shooting fire bac through the carb

[@TheAlexManVideos]

It is not uncommon for the mark to be a half tooth off. If this is the case, it is better that the circle be below the notch in the head by half a tooth rather than above by half a tooth. This will only happen if you have a severely stretched chain, or are using thinner gaskets for more compression.

[@feero9680]

thanks for mentioning it. my timing is off by half tooth and unfortunately its half tooth above the mark

[@Checkmarkyourswag]

What are u talking about when u say the circles line up ? On the little sprocket with ye chain ?

[@Eli-tg5xz]

I can't even get my cam sprocket back on please if you have tips lmk

[@alexcrafter_]

this is a bit hard on my pit bike, it runs with its current timing, but i think it might be off, and i want it running like factory, only problem is the the last owner damaged the casing where the mark usually is, so i have no idea what mark is the timing one. Is there any other way i can find out?

[@listomoto]

pls help. how can i remove the circle covering that cam gear? pls help how can i return the bolt that you can see in the video. because i cant put it back.

[@TheIggy861]

wonder if you can help me, got a pitbike, my mate crashed in the top end of it causing it to cut out and loose compression and knocked it of timing, bought a new head as it's cheap enough, but it would time it's either one tooth above the knotch or one below, what should I check, thanks

[@2009justin1987]

Very well explained

[@timschmidtgoessling8141]

Do you have any video of how to change the sprocket, cam chain guide on a xr70r. Similar motor to whats above.

[@themadmedic3804]

I’m sure I have my timing right but it’s extremely noisy and has a high tapping sound any advice?

[@crystalplayboybunny]

Nice vid...but yea...how do ya remove that round cap

[@burgessoutdoors]

another great video! thanks bud!

[@rexbrown8185]

i have a 2004 terminator. If i set my cam with the timing by fan how come my rocker arms are flapping? im instructed to line the two holes in line with case and larger hole out in middle of cam.

[@1234567melbourne]

i have a z50r and i just took the top bit off as well as the head surrounding the piston. i then span the magneto around a few times. i am now trying to get it back to normal. how do i know on which stroke is the magneto going to make the spark plug fire as it only does it every second tdc? i can get the timing marks marked up properly but im not sure about the spark?

[@TheAlexManVideos]

What ended up being the problem? Once the long bolt near the spark plug is out the cover should come right off.

[@BigBfromUC]

i have the ebay inner rotor kit. how do you reference Top dead center with the small rotor.

[@vortex812]

So as long as both marks line up at the same time, i should be fine right?

[@jrssmallenginerepairandwel7197]

Thank you so much helped alot

[@heregoesmike]

TheAlexManVideos I just had my timing chain break on my 1969 Honda Z50, initail visual inspection leads me to believe that the worn timing chain (engine was at wide open throttle), skipped a link, and that stretch snapped the chain... do you have a video on how to install a new timing chain? I really want to get it going again as cheaply as possible (labor wise).

[@chynnaborromeo9196]

Byg0tef

[@shanecunningham5094]

Hobie16Sailor coming for 150 passport moped

[@jordanevans1540]

Haven't rebuilt one in awhile, I've had mine all taken apart, but now I'm having issues with my sprocket going back with the chain on, it's as if the chain is too tight or something, but the sprocket won't go back with the chain on, yet the chain hasn't changed at all, any reason for this?

[@TheAlexManVideos]

Make sure the chain is properly aligned with the various sprockets and guides on the lower end of the engine. Also, there is a chain adjuster that should be loosened before you install everything, then it should be adjusted once everything is in place.

[@TheAlexManVideos]

CT motors bolt in, you may or may not have wiring issues. Honda Trail Bikes makes kits for all years of both bikes.

[@morris9839]

i have a 140 stomp pit bike and if it ant timed up right would it course it to run bad like it ticks over fine but when you rev it it bogs and engine gets hot very quick like with in a min or two but when u put the t for time at the mark its ment to be at it hits the valve so iv had to put the timing in a spot that i think its in iv even took off the head to see if the piston is at the very top and it starts fine but dont run fine and its on the exhust stroke any help please on how to solve this

[@randl3sx125]

alex help me please iv got a 125 xsport engine im rebuilding at the min. but befor i stripped it. the clutch was only bitein right on the end. like when u pull the clutch the bit on the end of the clutch cable was hitting the bit on the engine why is it doing this? i cant work it out is thay any thing i can do? cheers brett.

[@nossey06]

heyy my timing was off by like one tooth so i tryed changing it but i dont know what i done but now my pitty sounds like a lawnmower and wont go when i put it in gear. i turned the cam abit when the sprocket was off does this matter ?

[@vielbianca]

si how about the camshaft stopper plate what is purpose of it and its use?

[@dyllondunne4057]

I Replaced my head gasket and i dunno if i set the timing properly but when i kick it , it wont start and has no compression and sound like the timing chain is rattling

[@anthonybingham7333]

So I’m confused if the circle is on the opposite side at top dead center it’s fine?

[@dopeman420]

I haven't seen one yet with that plate on the cam, also you should of explained to remove the cam chain tensioner before trying to time it. Also the cam needs to face the piston

[@6Camel6Finger6]

ill be doing a top end rebuild very soon (its already apart) are there any bolts that arnt 10 ft lbs?

[@EnjoySk8ter69]

does this work on any 4 stroke pit bike or dirt bike motor? i have a dr90 baja will this work?

[@rojjst]

Hello sir ..I got a question for you...I have splendor pro..well ridden 30,000 km...but somehow it is making some weird noises from the engine...the mechanic says that need to change the timing chain...can we tighten up the spring on which the timing chain relies ...what can we do instead of changing the chain ?? Answer please...

[@nightmareinaction629]

Ronak Macwan you cant really do nothing if you dont change it it will snap and causing your piston to slam the valves better spend 30 bucks over 400

[@matthewmartin9313]

Thanks. Good info

[@jakeb123211]

what happens if you dont leave a mark when you take the timing chain off the sprocket will the timing be off

[@trailblazers2001]

what is the thickness of that pressre plate because I need to make 4 of them and want to get some sheet medal and make some

[@choppergirl]

How do you do this with a 4 stroke engine, like on a Honda Rebel. I have the valve cover off, and it looks like i'm going to have to break the cam chain to be able to lift the head off to see the condition of the valves. And then find a link to replace it. Is that correct? And when I'm done, get all this lined back up again, which doesn't look to hard from watching the animations of how a 4 stroke engine works and turning over my engine, I got that part. Still, Bloody fucking hell....

[@billymajor2123]

Can you do this on 200cc trailmaster XRX

[@WizzRacing]

@jakeb123211 The sprocket has the mark on it. be sure you have it turned outside so you can see it. The chain has no mark to use. It can be used any where as long as the crank and cam sprocket are lined up. You can always check by looking at the valves for compression and exhaust is Top Dead Center or TDC.

[@edsmith2503]

So there sprocket can only bolt on one way??? Or it doesn't matter what holes on sprocket go-to what holes on cam?? Cause I don't see marks on cam? Just bolt sprocket any way and set marks??

[@TheAlexManVideos]

Some engines the cam sprocket can only go on one way, there is no way to install the sprocket backwards or anything other than correct. Other engines just have two bolt holes 180 degrees apart. So you can install the cam 180 degrees from correct or even backwards so the marks are not visible. Now, I've never seen a cam sprocket without any timing marks, but there's no saying what the Chinese knock-off engines are doing. I never work on those, and all my experience and advice is in regards to genuine Honda engines. Now here's where it gets confusing and people argue with me. There is no such thing as timing the engine "180 off". The engine uses a wasted spark ignition, so it sparks every time the piston comes up. This means if you install the cam sprocket 180 degrees off from where it's supposed to be on the cam, it will run exactly the same. So while functional and you could make this mistake with no consequences, I would say this is sloppy and shows you don't know how to properly assemble the engine. The only issue arises if you don't line up the timing marks on the cam with the head at the same time the flywheel is lined up at TDC.

[@peterholmes5307]

I have 110cc. There is a clicking in around clutch. What would it be?

[@BROSKII-gu5yo]

Can you put a 125 pistons and rings and head onto a 140 engine thumptser

[@adamgareau2658]

Do you know if they had the little plate on the Z50A because neither of the engines I looked at have one.

[@curlyjr22]

Would that help on a knocking in getting on 3rd gear only. Z50 k3 thanks.

[@rexbrown8185]

how am i able to gauge lifters with so much clearence between cam and valves?

[@garysmart1]

please reply. is top dead center the piston is at the higher part of the head straight.

[@hurairahhamka2077]

I need a little help here..i was thinking to reopen the head block of my Yamaha 135LC and i'm facing a problem which i cant figure out how to make the timing chain..i know about the marking at the sprocket but i dont know how to set the piston at 0-0 level..can you explain a little more..??because i've done this before but i've made mistake causing my valve to bend,,

[@zenmotion8162]

hey i have a 100cc scooter and i want to reset my cam, can i set the cam your way? like this one

[@hiimjones1046]

Is this the same adjustment for honda 100cc??

[@RJtheexplosive]

Do you know what the proper name is for that because i lost one of those and i need a new one but cant find anything online

[@agbleerad5215]

Can u advice me.if it has the same tyming..my motor is yamaha mio scooter 110..but it is already upgraded 150 cc..58.5 bore it is a automatic same as a scooter..need ur help..tnx..

[@chrisburnsed6349]

What do you do with cam chain tension when a head and cylinder is decked? These engines do not have tensioners!?

[@TheAlexManVideos]

They most certainly do have tensioners. Depending on the year it's an automatic tensioner or a manual tensioner. No need to mess with an automatic tensioner. The manual one is adjusted with the set screw and locknut just forward of the shift shaft and below the flywheel in conjunction with the adjustment screw located on the bottom of the engine.

[@SASQUATCH205]

Will engine run if cam chain is off by 1 tooth?

[@TheAlexManVideos]

In most cases, yes. But it'll likely run like crap.

[@Farmtractor]

@@TheAlexManVideos could that be a reason for lower compression when kicking?

[@pielut805]

Nice job.... I am trying to find a video on how to retrofit an electric start on a 2003 xr 70.

[@TheAlexManVideos]

It's going to be very difficult. The only cases similar to yours that had electric start were on the old Honda Cubs. Once you find one, you'll find out that your ignition system will not work with the crank and flywheel necessary to keep the electrice start.

[@TheAlexManVideos]

The marks on the crank must line up at the same time the marks on the cam line up. The crankshaft or flywheel should have a mark that indicates TDC. I have never worked on your model of motorcyle so this is the only information I can give.

[@connorhall5597]

my head gasket had blew on my 125cc pit bike so I put a new one on and when I took the casing off the flywheel my pick up was snapped so I replaced the stator and now I don't get a spark any ideas to what it could be I've put a new ignition coil and cdi on it as well

[@roofied8153]

Connor Hall make sure u have ur wiring harness wired up correctly