Precision Camshaft Deegreeing System: Toyota 20R & 22R Series
Camshaft degreeing can be a daunting procedure if you aren’t properly equipped. LC Engineering has simplified the process by engineering a professional-grade kit specifically tailored for the 20R, 22R, 22RE, and 22RET engine platforms.
While this package includes specialized adapters and mounting hardware for Toyota engines, it remains a fully universal system. The high-quality components can be used to degree almost any engine in your shop. Additionally, the included magnetic-base dial indicator is a versatile diagnostic tool, essential for measuring flywheel runout, crankshaft end-play, and ring gear backlash. To ensure your build is a success, we have included a detailed instructional guide to walk you through the degreeing process step-by-step.
Kit Includes:
- Large-Diameter Degree Wheel: For clear, accurate timing readings.
- Custom Mount Adapter: Specifically for the 22R-series crankshaft.
- Adjustable Timing Pointer: Ensures precise TDC (Top Dead Center) calibration.
- Precision Dial Indicator: Measures valve lift and duration with extreme accuracy.
- Magnetic Base Stand: Provides a stable, adjustable mounting point for measurements.
- Adapter Mounting Plate & Hardware: Includes (2) M8-1.25 nuts for a secure setup.
- Low-Pressure Testing Springs (2): Replaces heavy valve springs during the degreeing process to protect components.
- Piston Stop: Used to find absolute Top Dead Center.
- Adapter Bushings (3) & Flat Washer: Ensures compatibility across various setups.
- Comprehensive Instructions: A detailed 2-page guide for proper camshaft synchronization.
Why Degree Your Cam?
Don't leave your engine's performance to chance. Manufacturing tolerances in blocks, heads, and timing components can lead to timing variances. Degreeing your camshaft ensures that your intake and exhaust valves open and close exactly when the manufacturer intended, maximizing horsepower, torque, and overall engine efficiency.-
-Tech Tip: Reusing old timing components or installing a high-performance camshaft without degreeing it can lead to sub-optimal performance or, in extreme cases, piston-to-valve interference. This kit provides the professional accuracy needed for a bulletproof build.
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- 1975-1980 20R 2.2L Engines
- 1981-1995 22R 2.4L Engines
- 1983-1995 22RE 2.4L Engines
- 1985-1987 22RET 2.4L Engines
CLICK HERE for a printer-friendly PDF version of these instructions.
While this is a universal kit suitable for nearly any engine building application, it includes specialized adapters specifically for the Toyota 20R and 22R/RE/RET series. Beyond cam degreeing, the included magnetic-base dial indicator is a versatile diagnostic tool for checking flywheel run-out, crankshaft end-play, and ring gear backlash.
Quick-Start Camshaft Degreeing Guide
1. Setup
- Mount Degree Wheel: Rotate engine to TDC (compression). Bolt the wheel to the crank pulley using the provided spacers at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions.
- Mount Pointer & Base: Attach a wire pointer to the block and the magnetic base plate to a valve cover stud.
- Prep: Remove all spark plugs and set the #1 intake rocker to zero lash.
2. Calibrate True TDC
- Install Piston Stop: Rotate crank 90° from TDC and thread the stop into the #1 spark plug hole (ensure 2" extension).
- Find the Marks: Rotate counter-clockwise until the piston hits the stop; note the number. Rotate clockwise until it hits the stop again; note that number.
- Sync the Pointer: Add those two numbers together and find the middle point. Move your wire pointer to that center number.
- Finalize: Your wheel is now set to True TDC. Remove the piston stop.
3. Measure & Adjust
- Dial Indicator: Place the indicator tip on the #1 intake valve retainer and zero the gauge.
- Record Events: Rotate the crank clockwise only. Record the degree wheel reading at .050" lift (Opening) and again when it returns to .050" before closing (Closing).
- Calculate Centerline: Add the Opening and Closing degrees plus 180. Take that total, find the middle point, and then subtract the Opening degrees.
- Adjust Gear: Loosen the three 10mm nuts on the cam gear. Advance or retard to match your cam card specs. Torque to 8 ft-lbs and re-check ignition timing.
Pro-Tips
- Advance: Better low-end torque.
- Retard: Better top-end horsepower.
- Direction: Always rotate the engine clockwise to keep tension on the chain and avoid errors.