Camshaft Locking tool set. Porsche 986 / 987.1 / 996 / 997.1

Camshaft Locking Set – Precision Tools for Accurate Camshaft Alignment

Accurate camshaft alignment is critical when servicing, rebuilding or timing the flat-six engines found in Porsche 986 / 987.1 Boxster & Cayman and 996 / 997.1 911 models. This engine timing set provides the precision tools required to correctly position camshafts and crankshafts, ensuring perfect timing during reassembly, chain tensioner replacement, cylinder head work, or any major engine repair.

Designed to maintain exact engine timing specifications, this tool kit eliminates guesswork and prevents costly misalignment that can lead to poor running, misfires or engine damage.

Built for workshop professionals and skilled enthusiasts, this is an essential toolset for anyone performing timing work on M96 and M97 Porsche engines.

Fits:

• Porsche Boxster 986 2.5L 1997-99
• Porsche Boxster 986 2.7L 1999-02
• Porsche Boxster S 986 3.2L 1999-02
• Porsche Boxster 986 2.7L 2003-04
• Porsche Boxster S 986 3.2L 2003-04
• Porsche Boxster 987 2.7L 2005 -08/08
• Porsche Boxster 987 S 3.2/3.4L 2005-08/08
• Porsche Boxster 987 MKII 2.9L 2009-2012
• Porsche Boxster S 987 MKII 3.4L 2009-2012
• Porsche 996 C2 3.4L 1997-08/01
• Porsche 996 C4 3.4L 1997-08/01
• Porsche 996 C2 3.6L 09/01-2005
• Porsche 996 C4 3.6L 09/01-2005
• Porsche 996 C4S 3.6L 09/01-2005
• Porsche 997 MK1 Carrera 2 3.6L 2005-08
• Porsche 997 MK1 Carrera 2S 3.8L 2005-08
• Porsche 997 MK1 Carrera 4 3.6L 2005-08
• Porsche 997 MK1 Carrera 4S 3.8L 2005-08
• Porsche 997 MKII Carrera C2 3.6L 2009-12
• Porsche 997 MKII Carrera C4 3.6L 2009-12
• Porsche 997 MKII Carrera C2S 3.8L 2009-12
• Porsche 997 MKII Carrera C4S 3.8L 2009-12
• Porsche Cayman 2.7L 987C 2006-08
• Porsche Cayman S 3.4L 987C 2005-08
• Porsche Cayman 2.9L 987C MKII 2009-12
• Porsche Cayman S / R 3.4L 987C MKII 2009-12

Kit Contains 
1 x TDC Alignment Pin – Locks crankshaft at TDC.
1 x Camshaft Lock  – To establish the allocation between the intake and exhaust camshafts.
2 x Camshaft Supports – for retaining the camshafts in position with the valve cover removed.
2 x Camshaft Holding Tools  – Used to retain the camshafts before removing the valve cover and during reassembly. 
1 x Connecting Rod Centering Mandrel – Positions the small of the connecting rod in preparation for fitting the piston and wrist pin.
1 x Piston Pin Driver and Extensions – Used to insert the wrist pins.

What an Engine Timing Set Does

This specialist set enables accurate and safe engine timing by:

• Locking camshafts in the correct position during timing procedures
  
• Aligning crankshaft and camshaft timing marks with precision
  
• Ensuring correct valve timing, preventing piston-to-valve contact
  
• Assisting with chain tensioner installation and re-tensioning
  
• Supporting engine rebuild tasks, including head removal or IMS service
  
• Maintaining timing accuracy during belt, chain or component replacement

With precise camshaft positioning, the engine runs smoother, delivers optimal performance and maintains proper combustion cycles.

Why Engine Timing Components Fail or Require Adjustment

Porsche M96 and M97 engines rely on accurate timing to ensure performance and engine longevity. Over time, several factors can cause timing issues:

• Chain stretch or wear from high mileage
  
• Worn chain guides causing slack or timing deviation
  
• Failing tensioners, common in ageing engines
  
• Camshaft deviation errors triggered by worn components
  
• Incorrect timing after previous repairs when tools were not used
  
• IMS-related service procedures, requiring camshaft locking
  
• General rebuild work, where camshafts and chains are removed

Symptoms include rough idle, loss of power, misfires, check engine lights or tapping noises.

Why You Should Replace or Use a Proper Camshaft Alignment Tool Set

Using a precision-engineered timing set designed to exceed original accuracy standards ensures safe, correct and efficient engine service.

Benefits include:

• Prevents engine damage from incorrect timing
• Ensures precise valve timing and performance
• Reduces risk of piston-to-valve interference
• Speeds up major engine work with accurate alignment
• Essential for rebuilds, timing chain replacement or head gasket work
• Ideal for diagnosing cam deviation or timing-related engine faults
• Ensures repeatable, professional-quality results

For any major repair on a Boxster, Cayman, 996 or 997 engine, a proper timing set is essential.