Engine Camshaft Installation / Removal Tool
Representative Photo, actual item may vary
Representative Photo, actual item may vary
Representative Photo, actual item may vary
Representative Photo, actual item may vary
What Are Engine Camshaft Installation & Removal Tools?
The camshaft is one of the most critical components in any internal combustion engine, precisely controlling the opening and closing of intake and exhaust valves to govern engine breathing and performance. Whether you're rebuilding a high-performance engine, replacing worn cam bearings, or swapping a performance camshaft, having the right dedicated tooling makes the difference between a successful job and costly engine damage.
Engine camshaft installation and removal tools are purpose-built instruments designed to guide the camshaft safely in and out of the engine block — and to drive cam bearings in and out of their bores — without scratching bearing journals, gouging cam lobes, or distorting the thin-walled bearing shells. Attempting this work with improvised tools or bare hands is a common source of engine damage during rebuilds.
Why Dedicated Cam Tools Matter
The camshaft must pass through a series of closely toleranced bearing journals inside the engine block. A single slip during installation can nick a lobe, scratch a bearing surface, or misalign a cam bearing shell — all of which lead to accelerated wear, oil pressure loss, or engine failure. Cam bearing installation tools use precisely sized expanding drivers and split driving plugs to press bearings squarely into their bores, ensuring proper alignment and oil hole positioning every time.
There are two main tool types in this category:
- Camshaft installation handles — These threaded handles attach directly to the front of the camshaft, giving the builder a secure grip to guide the cam through the block without touching the lobes or journals. They typically include multiple adapters to fit a range of domestic V6 and V8 engine families.
- Cam bearing installation and removal kits — These driver kits use an expanding mandrel, split driving plugs, and interchangeable sleeves to press cam bearings out of and into the block. Universal kits accommodate a wide range of bearing diameters across compact car, muscle car, and truck applications.
What to Look for When Shopping
Compatibility is the first consideration — some tools are engine-family specific (e.g., Small Block Chevy), while universal kits cover a broader range of bore diameters. For builders working on multiple platforms, a universal cam bearing driver kit with a full set of adapters offers the most flexibility. Look for kits that include both thick- and thin-wall bearing sleeves, as well as a centering cone to keep the driver aligned during installation. A sturdy carrying case keeps all components organized and protected between uses.
Top Brands in Camshaft Installation & Removal Tools
Proform Parts is a well-regarded name in engine builder tooling, offering both application-specific and universal cam tool solutions. Their engine-specific bearing installation kits — like those designed for Chevy small block engines — include an arbor with drive mount, drive spools, spool stabilizers, and a drive cap, giving builders everything needed to swap cam bearings cleanly and confidently. Proform also offers universal camshaft installation handles with multiple adapters covering most domestic V6 and V8 engines, including LS1 applications, making them a practical choice for shops and enthusiast garages alike.