Broken Camshaft

[bsiebert]

I understand that I may be beating a dead horse with this topic but I did perform a search and have found some information but I still have some questions and am wanting some opinions with my situation.

I recieved a 96 Monte Carlo for free, it has over 200,000 miles and I dont know it's history. It does not run right at all, it drove into the garage but just barely. I knew these 3.1L have notorious intake leaks and broken camshafts, so I tore it down and spun the motor while watching the push rods and rockers and came to the conclusion that the cam is indeed broken. My questions are....

Can I change the cam without pulling the motor?
If I bought a new camshaft and managed to install it with the motor in, would the camshaft bearings not being new effect the new cam... is it essential to change the bearings or could I get away without replacing them?
Can I change the bearings without pulling the motor?
Should I scrap all my plans and find an engine?

Any opinions or information is much appreciated!!

Thanks,
Brandon

[86FieroSEv6]

There is nothing you can do about swapping the camshaft without lifting the engine up. At that mileage I would highly recommend replacement due to the level of damage you have. At the very least it would need an overhaul.

[bszopi]

There is nothing you can do about swapping the camshaft without lifting the engine up.

Not true. You can actually take off the passenger wheel, and the splash guards inside the wheel well, lower the subframe some, and get the cam out. Is it easy? Not really. If I was going to do it, I think it would be easier just to pull the whole engine out.

With that said, lets address the next question - cam bearings. Ask yourself why a cam would break? Poor lubrication at the lobes is what is going to cause the hollow core to shear. If you have poor lubrication at the lobes, you are going to have bad bearings. And therefore, you are going to have to replace the bearings. As far as changing the bearings in the car? I don't see why not, but I've never done it, and honestly, wouldn't want to try.

By the way, welcome to the site!

[bsiebert]

I believe the camshaft broke because of the manifold leak and too much coolant mixed with the oil. I know this is a common problem but I also agree that the bearings should be replaced. I'm really just looking for the cheap way out, it's a nice car but I dont expect too much out of it.

Thanks for the opinions!

Brandon

[86FieroSEv6]

Cheap is painful . . . . but a low mileage replacement would probably be the least amount of trouble.

[Superdave]

depending on how bad the cam bearings spun you might be better off finding another block. A lot of damage can happen pretty quick. Either way i'd pull the engine and tear it down. It's likely to have other failed bearings as well.


Good Luck!