Focus L4-2.0L (2009)
Variable Valve Timing Actuator: Description and Operation
Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) System
Overview
The VCT system enables rotation of the camshaft(s) relative to the crankshaft rotation as a function of engine operating conditions. There are four types
of VCT systems.
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Exhaust phase shifting (EPS) system - the exhaust cam is the active cam being retarded.
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Intake phase shifting (IPS) system - the intake cam is the active cam being advanced.
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Dual equal phase shifting (DEPS) system - both intake and exhaust cams are phase shifted and equally advanced or retarded.
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Dual independent phase shifting (DIPS) system - where both the intake and exhaust cams are shifted independently.
All systems have four operational modes: idle, part throttle, wide open throttle (WOT), and default mode. At idle and low engine speeds with closed
throttle, the powertrain control module (PCM) determines the phase angle based on air flow, engine oil temperature and engine coolant temperature. At
part and wide open throttle the PCM determines the phase angle based on engine RPM, load, and throttle position. VCT systems provide reduced
emissions and enhanced engine power, fuel economy and idle quality. IPS systems also have the added benefit of improved torque. In addition, some
VCT system applications can eliminate the need for an external exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. The elimination of the EGR system is
accomplished by controlling the overlap time between the intake valve opening and exhaust valve closing. Currently, both the IPS and DEPS systems are
used.
The VCT system knocking and noise concerns are diagnosed in the Testing and Inspection section. For additional information, refer to the Engine
System - General Information. Verification of incorrect VCT phasing on a warm engine operating below 1500 RPM can be isolated using a stethoscope
and by monitoring the VCTADV, VCTADVERR and VCTDC PIDs using a scan tool. If the VCT phaser does not maintain correct valve timing, low oil
pressure or oil flow restrictions are primary possible causes. Verify correct oil pressure and flow, refer to the Engine System - General Information.
Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) System
The VCT system consists of an electric hydraulic positioning control solenoid, a camshaft position (CMP) sensor, and a trigger wheel. The CMP trigger
wheel indicates the CMP signal for that bank. A crankshaft position (CKP) sensor provides the PCM with crankshaft positioning information in 10
degree increments.
1. The PCM receives input signals from the intake air temperature (IAT), engine coolant temperature (ECT), engine oil temperature (EOT), CMP,
throttle position (TP), mass air flow (MAF), and CKP sensors to determine the operating conditions of the engine. At idle and low engine speeds
with closed throttle, the PCM controls the camshaft position based on ECT, EOT, IAT, and MAF. During part and wide open throttle, the
camshaft position is determined by engine RPM, load and throttle position. The VCT system does not operate until the engine is at normal
operating temperature.
2. The VCT system is enabled by the PCM when the correct conditions are met.
3. The CKP signal is used as a reference for CMP positioning.
4. The VCT solenoid valve is an integral part of the VCT system. The solenoid valve controls the flow of engine oil in the VCT actuator assembly.
As the PCM controls the duty cycle of the solenoid valve, oil pressure/flow advances or retards the cam timing. Duty cycles near 0% or 100%
represent rapid movement of the camshaft. Retaining a fixed camshaft position is accomplished by dithering (oscillating) the solenoid valve duty
cycle.
The PCM calculates and determines the desired camshaft position. It continually updates the VCT solenoid duty cycle until the desired position is
