How to check the camshaft on the Mercedes OM654 engine

In this video, you will see how to check the base position of the camshaft on the Mercedes OM654 engine, a fundamental operation in case of timing issues, chain replacement, or after work on the camshaft. The purpose of the check is to verify that the timing between the crankshaft and camshaft is aligned.

You will need a specific locking tool. You can find the complete kit on manomano.it for $80.78, with free shipping.

Remove the engine cover, disassemble the intake manifold and the metal protection plate underneath; disconnect the camshaft position sensor, insert the locking tool into the hole left by the sensor, and secure it using the same screw as the sensor. Apply the counter-template on the crankshaft pulley (which is always part of the kit) and gently rotate the engine using a wrench on the pulley clockwise until the reference on the pulley perfectly aligns with the mark on the counter-template.

Now the engine is at top dead center. The mark on the camshaft must coincide with the reference mark on the locking tool.

If they align, everything is OK; otherwise, the timing is off, and you need to re-time the engine. Remove the locking tools, replace the crankshaft position sensor gasket, reinstall the sensor, and reassemble all components.