Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) system — general information Ford F150
1. The Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) system consists of a VCT solenoid (or a pair of VCT solenoids on DOHC engines) mounted on the front of each cylinder head over the camshaft(s), a Camshaft Position (CMP) sensor with a trigger wheel and a variable camshaft timing sprocket mounted on each camshaft. When oil flow is sent to the timing sprockets by way of the VCT solenoids, the phasing of the camshafts is altered, thereby advancing or retarding the actuation of the valves. The Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) system oil control solenoid replacement procedure is in Emissions and engine control systems. The VCT units, sometimes called camshaft phasers, are removed and installed in Timing chains, tensioners and sprockets – removal, inspection and installation.
2. The Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) system should be diagnosed by a dealer service department or other qualified automotive repair facility. The VCT system is controlled and monitored by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), thereby requiring a specialized scan tool for diagnostics.