Importance of the rear cam sprocket key?
 

Hello,

I'm in the midst of replacing a leaking rear camshaft oil seal and when I removed the rear sprocket I realized the key was missing from its bore. I've looked back there, used a magnet, etc, but I cannot locate it. This lead my to ponder whether the key was there to begin with?

I've read that the key is there to align the sprocket in the correct position on the camshaft, its not there to aide in torquing the bolt that holds it. So, what does the collective think?

I'm sure I could use a piece of steel stock for a replacement to help align, but otherwise is it really needed?

Thank you.

-Jim

Hi! There is no key for the rear or front sprocket this is to facilitate timing of camshaft and dieselpump.
On the dieselpump shaft there is a key.
Timing of the camshaft is done with the rear sprocket removed and a special tool inserted in the back of the camshaft and the crank in pos with no 1 piston top dead center. Once that is finished you go on with timing of the pump...
These engines are much more complicated to work on than the gassers but when they are in good condition they make the most beautiful sound...:D

Best regards/ Tommy

This link every d24/ d24t/ d24tic enthusiast should read through, lots of good information here.
Best regards/ Tommy

http://volvoturbodiesel.blogspot.com/

Yep no key.

They are complicated to work on but actually easier than the VW 4cyl version of this diesel engine. On that one you have to get cam, crank, and pump all timed at once, whereas on the D24 you can do it one at a time -- cam first, then pump second. Makes it more straightforward.

George, I don't know about about easier than the 4cyl... With the D24 you have the extra pulley on the backside of the cam to deal with too. To get things set on the vw, you lock the cam, stick in the pump lock and set the tensioner and your done. I didn't think that was too bad, but we can agree to disagree.

Either way I would rather work on the D24, being the rare bird it is... Its nice to work on something different for a change!

Jason

Thanks for the replies Tommy, et al.,

I thought the same as I knew part of the timing procedure was to "slip" the rear sprocket to set the final injection pump time. I little paranoia helps in remembering something like this. :D I replaced the rear camshaft oil seal and the next step is setting the timing, yay!

Thanks again, Jim