The cam sprocket, along with the timing belt and crankshaft sprocket, maintains timing between the crankshaft and camshaft in an internal combustion engine. It connects with a chain to the crankshaft sprocket and rotates the camshaft to control valve timing. Cam sprockets have been used since ancient Greece and are made of durable metal but need replacement every 60,000-100,000 miles.
The cam sprocket is attached to one end of the camshaft in a combustion engine. This sprocket, together with the timing belt and crankshaft sprocket, is responsible for maintaining the timing between the crankshaft and camshaft. It is similar to a pulley or gear, although unlike a sheave, it has ridges along the outside, and unlike a gear, it does not make direct contact with another sprocket.
The presence of teeth along the outside allows the cam sprocket to connect in a chain with links the same size as the sprocket teeth. The chain runs along the outside of the sprocket and connects to another sprocket, the crankshaft sprocket, which is usually located near the cam sprocket. Connected by the chain, these two sprockets are capable of turning at the same rate even if they are not touching. In most vehicles, the sprocket has twice the diameter of the crankshaft sprocket, meaning that for every two revolutions of the crankshaft sprocket, the cam sprocket rotates only once.
The cam sprocket shaft is connected to the camshaft. When the pinion rotates, it also rotates the camshaft. This rotation is timed so that the valves on the camshaft open and close in time to the rotation of the crankshaft, where linear energy is converted into rotational energy. Proper timing between the camshaft and crankshaft allows the engine to run smoothly.
Any piece of machinery that uses an internal combustion engine can use a cam sprocket to help control the timing of engine components. These devices have been in use since the 3rd century before the Common Era (BCE). In ancient Greece, they were used in various machines, including weapons and toys. In modern times, these devices can be found in vehicles including cars and trucks.
Made of a durable and engineered metal like aluminum, a cam sprocket is capable of operating for a long time without wearing out. While these parts are tough, they often need to be replaced in cars and trucks between every 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Usually the timing chain is replaced at the same time as the two sprockets. Any wear on the sprocket occurs because the timing chain can become loose over time. The process of replacing these components can be difficult and time consuming and is usually done by a qualified mechanic.
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