Q: Timing chain, camshaft and crankshaft timing problems 2006 Dodge Ram 4.7L

asked by on January 21, 2017

Hey I need some advise. 2006 Dodge Ram 1500, 4.7L, 2WD Replaced the head gaskets and while putting on the right head the timing chain fell off from the lower sproket. I got it back on but the cam shaft no longer sits at TDC. The left cam also moved at some point. The V8 on the right cam is 4 notches to the left of TDC and the left cam is 2 notches to the right. My mind is blown as to how this happened but I need advise on how to get it right. Theoretically, if I take the chains off the cams and turn the crank to TDC then individually turn the cams to TDC and put the chains back on with the correct marking positions, that will fix the issue or jack it up worse? Please assist.

My car has 120000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Hi there - there are "camshaft timing tools" specific to every engine which are used for camshaft component repair to avoid just this scenario.These specialized tools keep the camshafts and crankshaft locked in the proper position ("crankshaft top dead center", aka TDC), so as to avoid camshaft and crankshaft movement, which could bend the valves while making other repairs. First task is to purchase or borrow these tools, carefully first turn each cam to its "TDC" position to install each camshaft fixture. Then make sure the crankshaft is at TDC, and install the crankshaft locking fixture if this has not already been done when removing the crankshaft damper pulley bolt. You will also need specialized tooling to adjust the camshaft phasers, the "variable timing" components located at the front of the camshaft. Follow the manufacturers service procedure for reinstalling cam chain guides, tensioner, chains, tensioner, etc. and timing the cams. For assistance, I recommend a timing chain replacement service performed by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location, diagnose this problem, give you an accurate assessment of damage and cost estimate for repairs.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Alternator problems. Lights and horn don't work.
Your car is showing all the classic signs of a bad battery. I would recommend having a mechanic inspect the battery (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-is-dead-inspection). They will start with the battery and have it load tested. When batteries get old they may not...
believe i have a bad power steering pump, how much does that job cost usually? now my car is having trouble starting, any relation
You will need to have the engine checked to see if it was a starter drive that was stuck and you burned up the starter. It may be the starter that was making the noise. I recommend having this checked...
Improving gas mileage - 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
The savings in gas, if they exist, would only be between 0 and 5 percent. The only way to know for sure is do a test: drive the car a specified distance, with and without 4WD and compare the results...
I think I installed the front hub seal backwards
Hi, thanks for writing in. When a hub seal is installed, the lip on the hub seal will want to be on the top when you are pressing it in. There is always one side that is slightly wider than...
I hit something last night and smell gas in the car - is it my gas pump or something else?
Hi there. In most cases, a fuel leak after hitting an object may be caused by a ruptured fuel line, the fuel cell being damaged, or it could be caused by the fuel pump that is damaged. If you've booked...
My Mercury Mountaineer 2003 will not start.
Hello, thank you for writing in. What sensor was unplugged when you started the vehicle? You will want to consider this sensor and the different systems that it may provide information to. Without that information the computer may have shut...
Why is my car leaking antifreeze?
Based on your description it sounds like your engine is overheating and the overheating is accompanied by a coolant leak (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/coolant-is-leaking-inspection). Coolant leaks can be both a cause and a consequence of overheating. Consequently, once the leak is repaired, your...
Thermostat malfunction code read
The Code that was set might have been P0126. The engine cooling thermostat maintains optimal engine temperature. Inasmuch as the PCM can measure actual temperature from other sensor inputs (such as the coolant temperature sensor), the functioning of the thermostat...
Does this vehicle have shocks or struts 1997 Chevy Malibu
This vehicle will have struts in front and back suspension.

Related articles

2012 Toyota Highlander vs. 2012 Dodge Durango: Which One Should I Buy?
Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) are a fun class of vehicle: not only are they great for carpools and moving around friends and family, but you can also get them off-road and just get dirty and have fun with them. These...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're Towing a Boat
If If you’re towing a boat, the vehicle that you buy is largely going to depend on the size and weight of your boat plus trailer. Most cars, realistically, aren’t cut out for the job. We recommend a pickup truck...
How Long Does an Automatic Timing Advance Unit Last?
The The automatic timing advance unit is a component in vehicles with diesel engines. Of course gas and diesel engines both work on the internal combustion principle, but they are quite different, and require different means of controlling the flow...