Timing Chain Kit Replacement?

TALONLUVSWIFI

MEMBER
2006 CADILLAC CTS
3.6L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
103,000 MILES

Hi, I'll be installing a used motor on the vehicle listed above. I'm going to be purchasing a SA Gear timing kit with 4 cam phasers and also a Melling oil+waterpump. Can you please give me detailed instructions and also what to avoid. This will be my first timing chain job but I figure on a non-interference engine it can't be that intimidating. Also, are SA Gear Timing kits good? With the cam phasers and melling water+oil pump it was $1,100 so I definitely didn't get a cheap Amazon one. Please and thank you

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1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,654 POSTS

Good idea on doing the timing chain/camshaft actuator kit before installing the engine. But the 2006 Cadillac CTS with the 3.6L V6 (LY7) engine is an interference engine so you need to be carful not to contact the piston to the valves. Move everything by hand and you should be okay. Set the engine up on TDC before you begin and then don't move the engine until all parts have been reassembled. Remove the valve cover for the number 1 cylinder and put the #1 piston up with the camshaft lobes facing away from the valves which will give you the correct placement before beginning. Check out the images (below). Please upload pictures or videos in your response of any problems so we can see what to help you with.

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