The camshaft is a shaft that controls the opening and closing of the engine's valves. It is driven by the crankshaft, which is the main shaft that drives the engine. The camshaft has a series of lobes, which are raised sections that push on the valve stems to open the valves.
The timing of the camshaft is critical to the engine's performance. If the valves open too early or too late, the engine will not run properly. The cam adjustment changes the timing of the camshaft by rotating it slightly. This can be done manually or with a computer-controlled system.
Advancing the cam timing (rotating the camshaft so that the valves open earlier) can increase the engine's performance. This is because the valves will open sooner, allowing more air and fuel to enter the cylinder. However, advancing the cam timing can also decrease the engine's fuel economy and increase emissions.
Retarding the cam timing (rotating the camshaft so that the valves open later) can decrease the engine's performance. This is because the valves will open later, allowing less air and fuel to enter the cylinder. However, retarding the cam timing can also increase the engine's fuel economy and decrease emissions.
The optimal cam timing for a particular engine depends on a number of factors, including the engine's design, the type of fuel being used, and the desired performance characteristics.
