Doing another timing belt change and want to replace the front cam seals. I use the IPD cam tool to keep cams in place. Can I unscrew the bolts while this using cam tool keep they from moving, and then change the seal? My idea is to do one side at a time. Does the cam sprocket just come off or is some kind of puller required.
Really need to change them they are leaking but trying to avoid the cost and time of buying one of them cam tools to lock the rear side first.

thanks for any thoughts, suggestions.
mark

Obviously, the locking tool needs to be removed when removing a cam. But that's all right because the cams don't want to spin much on their own.

What is important is the 3 cam sprocket bolt positions. The holes are not round! This allows for timing adjustments, which you do not want to do. The solution is to scribe the bolt location on the cam sprocket, or paint it, so that when the bolts are put back in, they are in the exact location as before.

Take your time and it will go easier.

You can always insert the locking tool just before putting the belt back on, if it makes you feel better.
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Keeping it running is better than buying new

yes, I did read about the cam screws needing to be replace is same position in the sprocket slot. so once I get the screws off, the sprocket just comes off and I'm looking at the seal, correct?

And yes taking your time makes a big difference, I find! ;)
best,
mark

Be careful not to scratch the journal when taking the seal out. I have seen picks used, as well as driving a screw into the seal and pulling on the screw to get the seal out. The procedure is identical to the rear cam seals.

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Keeping it running is better than buying new

thanks. yes I've done a rear seal using the pick method.