Blog

Detroit Diesel 60 Series Cam Lash Checking Procedure: ATC J 46303 Professional Guide

Detailed procedure for Detroit 60 Series lash checking using ATC J 46303 fixture.

By Blog Admin • January 09, 2026 • Posted in Products, Diesel Tools

This 12-phase procedure uses the ATC J 46303 fixture to accurately check cam lash on Detroit Diesel 60 Series engines. J-46303 replacement ensures precise adjustments, preventing wear for optimal performance.

ATC J 46303 Detroit Diesel 60 Series cam lash checking procedure

Introduction: Essential Cam Lash Checking for 60 Series Engines

Proper cam lash in Detroit 60 Series maintains valve timing and efficiency. The ATC J 46303, replacing J-46303, provides accurate gauges for adjustments—vital for preventing failures in heavy-duty use.

Phase 1-3: Engine Preparation & Access

Rotate engine to TDC cylinder 1 – Align marks; lock flywheel
Remove valve covers – Clean gasket surfaces
Inspect rockers for wear – Note any binding
Loosen lock nuts on adjusters – Prepare for measurement
Position ATC J 46303 fixture – Secure over cam

Phase 4-6: Initial Lash Measurement

Insert gauge into fixture – Select intake/exhaust side
Measure lash with feeler – Record 0.008–0.012" spec
Adjust screw if needed – Turn to correct clearance
Retighten lock nut – Torque to 40–45 ft-lbs
Re-check lash post-torque – Confirm no shift
Repeat for all valves – Sequence per manual

Phase 7-9: Multi-Cylinder Checks

CRITICAL: ATC J 46303 Measurement Setup

Rotate to next TDC – Cylinder 6, then others
Fixture reposition – Secure firmly
Gauge all valves – Intake 0.008", exhaust 0.020"
Adjust as required – Fine-tune screws
Torque and verify – Double-check clearances
Document per cylinder – Before/after readings

Phase 10-12: Reassembly & Testing

Reinstall covers with new gaskets – Torque bolts
Start engine idle test – Listen for ticks
Road test load – Verify power/no smoke
Final lash re-check – After 500 miles
Update service records – Note fixture used

Critical Safety Warnings: Cam Lash Procedure

MUST AVOID THESE FATAL ERRORS:

❌ Never skip TDC – Wrong position damages valves ($800+)
❌ Never loose torque – Shifts lash
❌ Never wrong spec – Overheats engine
❌ Never omit re-check – Post-torque errors
❌ Never dirty surfaces – Contaminates
❌ Never reuse gaskets – Leaks fluids
❌ Never skip test – Hidden issues
❌ Never ignore PPE – Hot parts burn

Professional Service Documentation

Service Phase	Documentation Required	Complete?
Pre-Service	TDC position, rocker inspection	□
Measurement	Lash readings per valve	□
Adjustment	Before/after values, torque logs	□
Multi-Cylinder	Sequence, per cylinder notes	□
Post-Test	Idle/road results, no-tick confirm	□
Final Approval	Signature, maintenance log	□

Why ATC J 46303 Outperforms Manual Checks

Risky Manual Methods:

❌ Feeler guesswork → Wear ($800+)
❌ Inaccurate → Power loss
❌ 1–2 hour delays → Labor costs
❌ Overheats → Valve burn
❌ No precision → Failures

ATC J 46303 Advantages:

✅ Accurate gauges
✅ J-46303 match
✅ 50% faster
✅ Zero wear/overheat
✅ Protects $9,300–$19,500
✅ Durable build
✅ Optimal power
✅ Repeatable

Check Professionally. Optimize 60 Series. Enhance Durability.

Get ATC J 46303 – $175.00

overall rating:

my rating: log in to rate

Post Tags:

Back to Blog Home