Originally Posted By: Gurney
Originally Posted By: . . .
More than likely a defective camshaft. If it was the oil, ALL the lobes would have damage.
I have been straining for reasons not to comment on this thread because I have learned that the merest
hint that camshaft damage in a k-series engine might in any way be related to the use of 5W-20 weight motor oil quickly turns into a food fight.
But, most respectfully, I disagree with the comment above. When this sort of wear occurs -- and, yes, it is d#mn rare -- this is exactly how it occurs, and this typically is how it is discovered in a high mileage k-series engine.
To the OP: If you have a Honda service history, discuss this your servicing dealer. The dealer will discuss the issue with a regional representative, and the two may work something out with you. If, however, you are being offered a replacement camshaft (parts & labor) for $400 by Honda, take it.
Gurney:
No need for a food fight. Let's stay on target, and get the ideas involved out on the table (and try to s-can those that don't need to be on the table!!!).
OK, I think you and I crossed swords on this one before. I really don't understand how a failing of the oil can be proven, when only one of the cam lobes fails, and all the others are healthy. They are, afterall, being fed the same oil, and presumably, under similar conditions of pressure*, temperature and flow. What is your theory for how the oil could be at fault under this circumstance?
Now, I will readily admit that as to auto mechanics and engineering, I am exactly the same thing that drives me nuts in my paid job (a constitutional defense lawyer). It drives me insane when a client (usually wearing a jump suit, flip-flops, and facing a few decades behind bars) insists that his own theory of the law and the constitution trumps mine (based upon the law...) or the judge's. I'm merely a low-grade shade tree mechanic who has learned a few lessons along the way, and reads a lot on Toyota-TIS (it's really cool to have every Toyota maintenance pub created in the last 25 years at your fingertips).
With that long wind-up, I'll admit, there may be a logical theory I'm missing. But I really don't see it. Bad oil is not going to "play good" on all but one cam lobe. Nor is good oil going to "pick on" one lobe and let it be eroded away. My vote has to be for "bad metal". Unless you convince me otherwise. . .
* please see my next post. I realize that cams don't get pressurized oil.
