What is a rocker arm solenoid?
The rocker arm solenoid valve controls the 2-step lift by controlling the oil flow to the rocker arm. In default mode, a locking pin locks the inner and outer mechanisms of the rocker arm together to provide high lift. When low lift is commanded, oil pressure retracts a locking pin within the rocker arm.
What is a rocker arm control valve?
A rocker arm (in the context of an internal combustion engine of automotive, marine, motorcycle and reciprocating aviation types) is an oscillating lever that conveys radial movement from the cam lobe into linear movement at the poppet valve to open it. The opposite end opens the valve.
What causes a rocker arm to come off?
The most likely cause for the loose rocker arm bolts in your engine is either inadequate tightening originally, or an effort to adjust the rocker arms at some point in the engine’s life. The only other possible explanation I can think of is some type of mechanical interference.
What does a rocker arm actuator do?
The rocker arm actuator is an oil pressure switch which controls the flow of oil to critical upper engine cylinder head components.
How does the rocker arm actuator work on a valve?
The actuator will push up on one end of the rocker arm which is affixed to the cylinder head on a stationary pivot. This motion will result in the front side of the rocker arm being forced downward where it will contact the tip of the valve stem and open it.
Why are rocker arm solenoids in the run position?
It can also be detrimental because of the delicate nature of the electronic components which are required to operate in perfect synchronicity with each other. Typical operation will dictate that a 12-volt signal is applied to all rocker arm solenoids (actuators) with the ignition in the run position.
What happens when the solenoid is de-energized?
When the solenoid is de-energized, the actuator will retract and the valve will close. This action is repeated with each stroke of each cylinder of the engine while it is running. Variable valve timing systems use electronic actuators to manipulate oil pressure.