Section 03-00: Engine, Service
1996 All F-150, F-250, F-350, F-Super Duty and Bronco Vehicles Equipped with 4.9L, 5.0L, 5.8L or 7.5L Gasoline Engines, and 7.3L Diesel Engines Workshop Manual
SERVICE PROCEDURES

Camshaft End Play

  1.  CAUTION: Prying against the camshaft gear with the valve train load on the camshaft can break or damage the gear. Therefore, the rocker arm adjusting nuts must be backed off, or the rocker arm and shaft assembly must be loosened sufficiently to free the camshaft. After checking the camshaft end play, resecure valve train components following steps in the specific engine section.

    NOTE: For Camshaft End Play Specifications, refer to Specifications at end of Section 03-01A (4.9L SFI), Section 03-01B (5.0L and 5.8L MFI), Section 03-01C (7.5L MFI), or Section 03-01D (7.3L diesel).

    Push camshaft toward rear of engine (6007). Install Dial Indicator with Bracketry TOOL-4201-C or equivalent so indicator point is on camshaft sprocket attaching bolt.

  1. Zero dial indicator. Pull camshaft forward and release it. Compare dial indicator reading with specifications. If end play is excessive, replace camshaft thrust plate.

  1. Remove dial indicator.

  1. After replacing thrust plate, check end play again. If it is still out of specified range, inspect camshaft and cylinder block (6010) for excessive wear.