Table of Contents
Getting the Car Off the Ground
Before any mechanical work can begin, the 240SX must be lifted and supported. The crew uses a jack and a set of sturdy supports to raise the front of the vehicle, allowing the tires to spin freely and giving them access to the steering rack and the engine bay. This initial lift is crucial for safely removing the oil pan and other components that are otherwise trapped under the car.
Removing the Oil Pan and Steering Rack
With the car hanging, the next step is to free the oil pan. The team cuts all the zip ties that hold the pan in place, loosens the oil lines, and carefully pries the pan away from the block. The pan is heavy and has a large number of bolts, so the crew takes their time, using a ratchet to loosen each one. Once the pan is free, they can access the steering shaft and the steering rack.
The steering rack is a critical component for handling, especially on a drift car. To remove it, the crew uses a crowbar to create space between the frame and the rack, then inserts wooden blocks to keep the rack from falling. With the rack lifted, they can pull it out in one piece, a process that requires patience and a bit of force. The team also removes the tie rods from both sides, which are the last obstacles before the rack can be fully extracted.
Installing the New Camshaft and Timing Chain
After the front end is cleared, the focus shifts to the engine. The new camshaft is installed first, with the crank sprocket positioned in the correct alignment. The crew follows the manufacturer’s instructions, using the two and three positions to ensure the cam is advanced properly. They then install the nine‑position crank sprocket, which is essential for the LS engine’s timing.
Next comes the timing chain. The team heats the lower timing chain sprocket to expand the metal, making it easier to pry off. Once the sprocket is removed, the new one is slid on with minimal force. The chain is then routed through the new sprocket and the camshaft, and the timing is set to top dead center. This step is critical for engine performance and longevity.
Reassembling the Front End and Final Checks
With the engine components in place, the crew turns their attention back to the front end. They reinstall the oil pan, making sure every bolt is tightened to the correct torque. A small amount of RTV is applied to the corners to prevent leaks, and the oil pickup tube is re‑installed with a new gasket. The steering rack is then re‑mounted, and the tie rods are re‑attached. The team takes care to align everything precisely, as misalignment can cause handling issues on the track.
Once the steering rack is back in place, the crew performs a quick test to ensure the steering feels correct. They also check the oil level and look for any signs of leakage. With the front end reassembled, the car is lowered back onto the ground, and the final bolts on the suspension are tightened. The vehicle is now ready for a test drive, and the crew can see the results of their hard work.
Wrapping Up the Rebuild
The rebuild concludes with a final inspection of all components. The team confirms that the oil pan is sealed, the steering rack is secure, and the timing chain is properly tensioned. They also note that the new cam and head swap should provide a noticeable improvement in power and handling, especially for drift applications. The video ends with a brief recap of the steps taken and a reminder to support the channel with likes and comments.