When searching for videos specifically about the 6.7 Cummins front timing housing gasket repair, it was found that there are almost no videos available online. This article shares the detailed steps and procedures followed during the repair to help others who may need to perform the same task.
Disassembly Preparation and Initial Steps
First, remove the front cover, including the crankshaft seal and the fuel pump gear access cover. The power steering pump was removed from the side without removing its bracket for easier removal of the cover. The water pump does not necessarily need to be removed, but it was replaced anyway since it was accessible. All pulley brackets were also removed before taking off the cover.
Positioning the Crankshaft and Camshaft
Set the crankshaft and camshaft to TDC (Top Dead Center) compression stroke cylinder 1. To verify this, remove the valve cover and check if the exhaust and intake rockers on cylinder 1 are loose. If they are, it is compression 1; if not, it is likely compression 6, requiring one full rotation to reach compression 1.
Removing the Fuel Pump Gear
Using the appropriate wrench size (such as 1 1/16 inch), remove the nut and washer to pull off the fuel pump gear. If stuck, use a puller tool via the two holes on the gear. Paint marks were applied as a precaution to ensure reinstallation alignment, although the 6.7 injection pumps are not timed.
Removing the Camshaft
To remove the camshaft, first remove all rocker arms and push rods, labeling them in the order they were removed to ensure correct reassembly. Custom wooden dowels were made as tools to fit inside the lifters to help lift them for camshaft removal. Different dowel lengths were needed for cylinders 1-3 and 4-6 due to clearance issues.
Camshaft Removal Tips and Cleaning
After removing the camshaft, remove the two bolts from the thrust plate to provide play for the camshaft. If the camshaft is difficult to remove, check if any lifter is stuck and ensure all lifters are fully seated. Gently twist the camshaft while pulling it out to clear the lobes.
During the repair, it is recommended to use a high-quality Cummins engine belt to ensure long-term stability and performance of the engine components.
All bolts holding the timing housing are then removed. Use a scraper carefully to remove old gasket material without damaging sealing surfaces to avoid future leaks.
Cleaning and Preparing Surfaces
Clean all oil passages thoroughly with brake cleaner and compressed air to remove debris. Remove all old gasket material and silicone by hand without using abrasive tools to protect sealing surfaces.
Choosing the Correct Gasket
Ensure to use the genuine gasket designed for the 6.7 Cummins, as parts compatible with the 5.9 model do not fit correctly. The thickness and hole placement differ significantly between models.
Installation Steps and Precautions
Align the gasket using the dowels, apply RTV silicone sealant on the T-joint areas similar to oil pan seals. Lubricate the fuel injection pump shaft O-ring before installing the housing to prevent damage. Carefully install the housing, making sure all bolt holes align properly without gasket interference.
Tighten the five bolts on the housing in the correct sequence to 24 Nm (18 ft-lbs) using an 11 mm socket.
Reassembly and Final Checks
After torquing housing bolts, install the oil pan gasket and bolts. Clean and lubricate all components before reassembly. Reinstall the camshaft, ensuring timing marks on the cam and crankshaft are properly aligned. Torque the thrust plate bolts to 24 Nm as well.