{"id":110350,"date":"2024-07-10T19:55:25","date_gmt":"2024-07-11T02:55:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogv2prod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/?p=110350"},"modified":"2025-01-01T12:08:12","modified_gmt":"2025-01-01T20:08:12","slug":"your-guide-to-understanding-the-basics-of-the-crankshaft-and-camshaft","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/your-guide-to-understanding-the-basics-of-the-crankshaft-and-camshaft\/","title":{"rendered":"Your Guide to Understanding the Basics of the Crankshaft and Camshaft"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 7<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span><style>.kadence-column110350_9b62d0-79 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column110350_9b62d0-79 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column110350_9b62d0-79 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column110350_9b62d0-79 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column110350_9b62d0-79 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column110350_9b62d0-79 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column110350_9b62d0-79{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column110350_9b62d0-79 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column110350_9b62d0-79 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column110350_9b62d0-79 inner-column-1 qk-look-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-row ultp-block-c23689  qk-main-wrap\"><div class=\"ultp-row-wrapper\"><div class=\"ultp-row-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-column ultp-block-301d7d\"><div class=\"ultp-column-wrapper\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading110350_bf56f5-11, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading110350_bf56f5-11[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading110350_bf56f5-11\"]{text-align:center;font-size:20px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading110350_bf56f5-11 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading110350_bf56f5-11[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading110350_bf56f5-11\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-family:Inter;font-weight:500;font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading110350_bf56f5-11 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading110350_bf56f5-11[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading110350_bf56f5-11\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"kt-adv-heading110350_bf56f5-11 summary-title wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading110350_bf56f5-11\"><span>Summary<\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The crankshaft and camshaft work together to allow the engine to &ldquo;breathe.&rdquo;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The engine delivers torque &nbsp;through the transmission or transaxle to the drive wheels by way of the driveshaft (rear-wheel drive) or CV axles (front-wheel drive).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The camshaft opens and closes the intake and exhaust valves.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The crankshaft is driven by the pistons and connecting rods and provides turning torque to the driveline.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Do the Crankshaft and Camshaft Do?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The crankshaft and camshaft work together to allow the engine to &ldquo;breathe.&rdquo; &nbsp;Here&rsquo;s a breakdown of how the crankshaft and camshaft operate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1380\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/diagram-showing-crankshaft-and-camshaft-of-vehicle.jpg\" alt=\"diagram showing crankshaft and camshaft of vehicle\" class=\"wp-image-115233\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/diagram-showing-crankshaft-and-camshaft-of-vehicle.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/diagram-showing-crankshaft-and-camshaft-of-vehicle-300x259.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/diagram-showing-crankshaft-and-camshaft-of-vehicle-1024x883.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/diagram-showing-crankshaft-and-camshaft-of-vehicle-768x662.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/diagram-showing-crankshaft-and-camshaft-of-vehicle-1536x1325.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/diagram-showing-crankshaft-and-camshaft-of-vehicle-150x129.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Diagram showing crankshaft and camshaft | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Camshaft Function and Operation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The main role of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/camshaft\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"camshaft\">camshaft<\/a> is to control the opening and closing of valves during the combustion process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"855\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/camshaft-can-either-be-in-the-block-with-pushrods-and-rocker-arms-operating-the-valves-or-mounted-overhead-855x1024.jpg\" alt=\"camshaft can either be in the block with pushrods and rocker arms operating the valves or mounted overhead\" class=\"wp-image-115234\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/camshaft-can-either-be-in-the-block-with-pushrods-and-rocker-arms-operating-the-valves-or-mounted-overhead-855x1024.jpg 855w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/camshaft-can-either-be-in-the-block-with-pushrods-and-rocker-arms-operating-the-valves-or-mounted-overhead-250x300.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/camshaft-can-either-be-in-the-block-with-pushrods-and-rocker-arms-operating-the-valves-or-mounted-overhead-768x920.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/camshaft-can-either-be-in-the-block-with-pushrods-and-rocker-arms-operating-the-valves-or-mounted-overhead-1282x1536.jpg 1282w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/camshaft-can-either-be-in-the-block-with-pushrods-and-rocker-arms-operating-the-valves-or-mounted-overhead-150x180.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/camshaft-can-either-be-in-the-block-with-pushrods-and-rocker-arms-operating-the-valves-or-mounted-overhead.jpg 1298w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 855px) 100vw, 855px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The camshaft can either be in the block with pushrods and rocker arms operating the valves or mounted overhead. | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The camshaft is geared to the crankshaft, either directly or with a chain or belt and it only spins half as fast as the crankshaft, which requires two full 360 degree rotations per cycle (720 degrees total).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The camshaft can either be in the block with pushrods and rocker arms operating the valves or mounted overhead as shown in the illustration<strong> <\/strong>with roller rockers operating the valves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While the camshaft is driven by the crankshaft, the crankshaft only provides power because the camshaft is operating the intake and exhaust valves in each cylinder to allow the engine to breathe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As the camshaft rotates, its lobes open the valves against the force of the valve springs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The lobe&rsquo;s action changes the camshaft&rsquo;s rotary motion to linear motion. In other words, the valves operated by the lobes only move in two directions: they open and they close.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In some vehicles, the camshaft is also responsible for operating the mechanical fuel pump, distributor, and oil pump.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> <em>On gasoline direct injection (GDI) engines, for example, the camshaft also has a special set of lobes dedicated to operate the high-pressure fuel pump.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The backward and forward movement of the lifter generates an alternating torsion at each cam lobe, and the number of cam lobes on the shaft multiplies the alternating torsion force.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&rsquo;ve ever turned a camshaft during the installation of a timing belt, you can feel this happening. The valve springs provide resistance that pulsates as the lobes pass their respective high spots. This causes camshafts that are directly geared to the crank gear to make a lot of noise unless a spring-loaded scissor gear or some other material besides metal is used for the cam gear teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Crankshaft Function and Operation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/applying-torque-when-you-turn-any-crank-with-your-hand.jpg\" alt=\"applying torque when you turn any crank with your hand\" class=\"wp-image-115235\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/applying-torque-when-you-turn-any-crank-with-your-hand.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/applying-torque-when-you-turn-any-crank-with-your-hand-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/applying-torque-when-you-turn-any-crank-with-your-hand-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/applying-torque-when-you-turn-any-crank-with-your-hand-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/applying-torque-when-you-turn-any-crank-with-your-hand-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/applying-torque-when-you-turn-any-crank-with-your-hand-75x75.jpg 75w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/applying-torque-when-you-turn-any-crank-with-your-hand-600x600.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/applying-torque-when-you-turn-any-crank-with-your-hand-96x96.jpg 96w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/applying-torque-when-you-turn-any-crank-with-your-hand-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">When you turn any crank with your hand, you&rsquo;re applying torque (see photo). This is what the crank shaft does, but every piston is a &ldquo;hand&rdquo; working with all the other &ldquo;hands&rdquo; so that continuous force is applied to the crankshaft. Speed and power are regulated by the throttle. | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/crankshaft\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"crankshaft\">crankshaft<\/a> is a crank with a number of handles, and it has one crank throw for each piston and connecting rod. As with every crank, it is structured to do work as it is cranked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"662\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/torque-is-created-as-the-pistons-and-connecting-rods-do-their-work-to-apply-force-to-each-of-their-cranks.jpg\" alt=\"torque is created as the pistons and connecting rods do their work to apply force to each of their cranks\" class=\"wp-image-115236\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/torque-is-created-as-the-pistons-and-connecting-rods-do-their-work-to-apply-force-to-each-of-their-cranks.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/torque-is-created-as-the-pistons-and-connecting-rods-do-their-work-to-apply-force-to-each-of-their-cranks-300x124.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/torque-is-created-as-the-pistons-and-connecting-rods-do-their-work-to-apply-force-to-each-of-their-cranks-1024x424.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/torque-is-created-as-the-pistons-and-connecting-rods-do-their-work-to-apply-force-to-each-of-their-cranks-768x318.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/torque-is-created-as-the-pistons-and-connecting-rods-do-their-work-to-apply-force-to-each-of-their-cranks-1536x636.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/torque-is-created-as-the-pistons-and-connecting-rods-do-their-work-to-apply-force-to-each-of-their-cranks-150x62.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">As the pistons and connecting rods do their work to apply force to each of their cranks, torque is created, which is what the engine is built for. | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A typical crankshaft has the following parts:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Main bearing journals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rod bearing journals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crankshaft throws<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Counterweights<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Front snout<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flywheel flange<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keyways<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil passages<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As the crankshaft rotates, it travels all the way to the bottom of the cylinder bore, with the connecting rod transferring that motion to the corresponding crank throw, which converts the piston&rsquo;s vertical movement into a rotational motion, all driven by the combustion events that happen in sequence in the cylinders above the pistons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The arrangement of crankshafts on engines can vary, depending on vehicle specifications. These types include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>V-8 engine arrangement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Four-cylinder engine crankshafts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Five-cylinder engine crankshafts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Three-cylinder engine crankshafts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inline six-cylinder engine crankshaft<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>90-degree V-6 engine crankshaft<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>6-degree V-6 engine crankshaft<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike camshafts, crankshafts can be forged, cast, or manufactured using a billet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The crankshaft can fail after some time, but usually lasts the life of the vehicle unless the engine runs low on oil pressure for one reason or another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1441\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/photo-of-engine-burned-out-the-rod-because-a-piece-of-rebar-knocked-a-hole-in-the-oil-pan.jpg\" alt=\"photo of engine burned out the rod because a piece of rebar knocked a hole in the oil pan\" class=\"wp-image-115237\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/photo-of-engine-burned-out-the-rod-because-a-piece-of-rebar-knocked-a-hole-in-the-oil-pan.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/photo-of-engine-burned-out-the-rod-because-a-piece-of-rebar-knocked-a-hole-in-the-oil-pan-300x270.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/photo-of-engine-burned-out-the-rod-because-a-piece-of-rebar-knocked-a-hole-in-the-oil-pan-1024x922.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/photo-of-engine-burned-out-the-rod-because-a-piece-of-rebar-knocked-a-hole-in-the-oil-pan-768x692.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/photo-of-engine-burned-out-the-rod-because-a-piece-of-rebar-knocked-a-hole-in-the-oil-pan-1536x1383.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/photo-of-engine-burned-out-the-rod-because-a-piece-of-rebar-knocked-a-hole-in-the-oil-pan-150x135.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The engine burned out the rod in this photo because a piece of rebar knocked a hole in the oil pan. The bottom right photo is where the overhead camshaft journal ran dry and destroyed the head. | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Worn journals, scored bearing journals, bends or warpage, cracks, thread damage, and worn seal surfaces can render the crankshaft inoperable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Crankshaft problems are bound to arise after some time, given that the stress on it increases by four times every time the engine speed doubles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The crankshaft is also prone to vibration damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every time combustion occurs, the force deflects the crankshaft as it transfers torque. Crankshaft deflections are a normal occurrence, and the crankshaft can often resonate with other vibrating parts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once these vibrations become great enough, you might hear a thumping sound. Keep in mind, however, that a consistent vibration loud enough for you to hear is a probable sign of a failing crankshaft.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is the Difference Between a Crankshaft and a Camshaft?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1587\" height=\"728\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/camshaft-and-crankshaft-notable-differences.jpg\" alt=\"camshaft and crankshaft notable differences\" class=\"wp-image-115238\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/camshaft-and-crankshaft-notable-differences.jpg 1587w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/camshaft-and-crankshaft-notable-differences-300x138.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/camshaft-and-crankshaft-notable-differences-1024x470.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/camshaft-and-crankshaft-notable-differences-768x352.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/camshaft-and-crankshaft-notable-differences-1536x705.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/camshaft-and-crankshaft-notable-differences-150x69.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1587px) 100vw, 1587px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The crankshaft (bottom) has main journals and rod journals and is a lot bigger and heavier than the camshaft (top), which has egg-shaped lobes and journals. | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bad Camshaft and Crankshaft Sensor Symptoms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Bad crankshaft symptoms can show up as low oil pressure and knocking. If the crankshaft breaks, the engine stops, and it usually warps the block so that it needs line boring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The camshaft lobes can begin to round off so that they don&rsquo;t provide the necessary lift. If a lobe is completely rounded off, machine-gun like popping noises may come back through the intake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The crankshaft and camshaft have a sensor that monitors their position and speed. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/crankshaft-position-sensor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"crankshaft sensor\">crankshaft sensor<\/a> provides ignition and fuel injection reference and the camshaft sensor provides cylinder identification and cam sensor indexing on engines with variable valve timing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> <em>On GDI engines, the cam sensor input is factored into the high pressure fuel pump&rsquo;s pressure control solenoid cycle. The cam sensor tells the ECM exactly where the high pressure pump piston is while it is supplying high pressure fuel to the GDI rail.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/camshaft-position-sensor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"camshaft position sensor\">camshaft position sensor<\/a> sends information about the camshaft&rsquo;s position to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/car-pcm-meaning-symptoms-of-failure-and-more\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"powertrain control module\">powertrain control module<\/a> (PCM). This information lets the computer know which valve is open in a particular cylinder. On many platforms it tells the ECM when the piston has passed 24 degrees ATDC to green light the next injector event (even on MPI platforms).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By confirming that the valves are aligned for proper air and fuel delivery, the computer is able to determine the proper conditions for intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust activities. The cam sensor is also used for feedback on variable valve timing systems, which is one of the more important functions it has on modern engines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On multi-point injection (MPI) engines with distributors or cam sensors mounted on a synchronizer where the distributor used to be, the cam sensor alignment must be set right. On these, a crank sensor triggers the ignition, and a scan tool is typically needed to index the distributor properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> <em>You can&rsquo;t change the ignition timing by turning the distributor on an engine that has a cam sensor with a crank sensor for ignition trigger. All you&rsquo;re changing by moving the distributor is cam retard offset and rotor alignment.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But if the cam sensor is out of adjustment (distributor indexed wrong), it can cause surging, phantom misfires. On Chevy CSFI systems it will cause the system to bank fire the injectors, which destroys fuel economy in a big way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Over time, one or both of these sensors could fail, triggering the check engine light. Aside from this symptom, other signs you should keep an eye out for include the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/under-the-automotive-microscope-the-ecm\/#Stuttering_or_Stalling_Engine\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Stuttering\">Stuttering<\/a> or surging engine<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/why-is-my-car-burning-so-much-gas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Increased fuel consumption\">Increased fuel consumption<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/my-car-wont-accelerate-properly-when-i-push-the-gas-causes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Poor acceleration\">Poor acceleration<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/why-does-the-engine-stall-common-causes-and-how-to-prevent-them\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Stalling\">Stalling<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-is-a-misfire-plus-common-obd-codes-linked-to-a-misfiring-engine\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Engine misfires\">Engine misfires<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While the crankshaft and camshaft are entirely different parts, they need to work together to transfer torque to the transmission and drive wheels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The main difference between the two parts is that the camshaft opens and closes the valves during the combustion process, while the crankshaft takes the torque from this process and transfers it to the transmission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Position sensors are essential for both the crankshaft and camshaft. These sensors help the powertrain control module determine the best time to launch intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to Get New Crankshafts and Camshafts for Your Vehicle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As mentioned, both the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/crankshaft\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"crankshaft\">crankshaft<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/camshaft\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"camshaft\">camshaft<\/a> are vital to ensure the engine &ldquo;breathes.&rdquo; This means if one is damaged, there&rsquo;s a chance the engine gets affected in the long run. Luckily, you can get brand-new and high-quality crankshafts and camshafts at <a href=\"http:\/\/carparts.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\"CarParts.com\">CarParts.com<\/a> today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our team is committed to giving you the best value for your money. We carry parts from only the most trusted manufacturers in the industry to guarantee their performance and quality. Expect your order to fit and work just like the stock part.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Need help finalizing your order? Our toll-free hotlines are open 24\/7. Our team members are available round-the-clock to take your call and offer world-class customer service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Shop now at CarParts.com, and enjoy our competitive prices!<\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 7<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>What Do the Crankshaft and Camshaft Do? The crankshaft and camshaft work together to allow the engine to &ldquo;breathe.&rdquo; &nbsp;Here&rsquo;s&#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/your-guide-to-understanding-the-basics-of-the-crankshaft-and-camshaft\/\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":110351,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[52,3747],"tags":[411,1686],"ppma_author":[2607,2985],"class_list":{"0":"post-110350","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-diy","8":"category-engine","9":"tag-camshaft","10":"tag-crankshaft","11":"entry"},"acf":{"adrotate_specific_mobile_ad":"","adrotate_specific_desktop_ad":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Your Guide to Understanding the Basics of the Crankshaft and Camshaft - In The Garage with CarParts.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Read on to learn how the crankshaft and camshaft work, how they differ, the signs they need replacement, and more.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/your-guide-to-understanding-the-basics-of-the-crankshaft-and-camshaft\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Your Guide to Understanding the Basics of the Crankshaft and Camshaft - In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Read on to learn how the crankshaft and camshaft work, how they differ, the signs they need replacement, and more.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/your-guide-to-understanding-the-basics-of-the-crankshaft-and-camshaft\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-07-11T02:55:25+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-01-01T20:08:12+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/basics-of-the-crankshaft-and-camshaft-scaled.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2048\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1364\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"5 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/your-guide-to-understanding-the-basics-of-the-crankshaft-and-camshaft\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/your-guide-to-understanding-the-basics-of-the-crankshaft-and-camshaft\\\/\"},\"author\":[{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"$id\":\"4\",\"name\":\"CarParts.com Research Team\",\"jobTitle\":\"Expert Automotive Writer\",\"description\":\"The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. 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