Installing a CompCam Camshaft on the Acura TL Type S for 20 Additional Horsepower

The Acura TL Type S, powered by the J32A2 or J35A8 V6 engine, is a favorite among enthusiasts for its balanced performance and potential for substantial power gains. One of the most effective bolt-on upgrades is a performance camshaft. A CompCams camshaft designed for this engine family can add up to 20 reliable horsepower at the wheels when paired with proper supporting modifications. This guide covers the complete installation process, from preparation and removal to timing and break-in, ensuring you get the most from your upgrade.

Why CompCams for the J-Series Engine?

CompCams offers a range of camshaft profiles tailored for the J32 and J35 engines. Their grind technology focuses on increasing valve lift and duration while maintaining adequate piston-to-valve clearance for street use. The benefits include:

  • Peak horsepower gains of 15–25 hp on otherwise stock engines.
  • Extended power band with improved mid-range torque.
  • More aggressive exhaust note without excessive idle degradation.

For the TL Type S, the most common CompCams part numbers are the Stage 2 or Stage 3 profiles. Verify your specific camshaft part number with CompCams official website to confirm compatibility with your engine code.

Required Tools and Parts

In addition to a standard socket set, you will need several specialty tools. Do not attempt this install without the timing belt locking tool or a cam gear holding tool—proper timing is critical.

  • CompCams camshaft kit (includes camshaft, valve springs if needed, and seals)
  • Complete timing belt kit (belt, tensioner, idler pulleys, water pump recommended)
  • New valve cover gaskets and spark plug tube seals
  • Engine oil (5W-20 or 5W-30, plus camshaft break-in additive)
  • Coolant (Honda Type 2 or equivalent)
  • Socket set (metric, 10mm–24mm), torque wrench (ft-lb and in-lb)
  • Cam gear holding tool or equivalent pin spanner
  • Harmonic balancer puller and installer set
  • Feeler gauges (for valve clearance if adjusting)
  • Gasket scraper and clean shop rags

Step 1: Vehicle Preparation

Work on a level surface with the engine cold. Begin by disconnecting the negative battery terminal and setting the parking brake. Remove the engine undercover for access.

  1. Drain the engine oil and remove the oil filter. Replace with a new filter during reassembly.
  2. Drain the radiator coolant via the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator.
  3. Remove the intake air duct, air box, and throttle body. Keep the intake manifold in place; you only need to access the front cylinder bank.
  4. Remove the accessory drive belts (alternator, power steering, A/C) by loosening the tensioner pulley bolts.

Step 2: Removing the Valve Covers and Timing Belt

With the front of the engine exposed, remove the valve covers. The rear bank (closest to the firewall) is more accessible from above after removing the strut tower brace.

  1. Remove the coil packs and spark plug wires. Label them for reinstallation.
  2. Unbolt the valve covers. Carefully pry them loose with a trim tool to avoid bending the gasket surface.
  3. Rotate the crankshaft to TDC of cylinder #1. The crankshaft pulley mark should align with the timing mark on the lower cover, and the camshaft sprocket marks should point upward.
  4. Secure the crankshaft using a breaker bar and socket on the harmonic balancer bolt.
  5. Loosen the timing belt tensioner and slip the belt off the cam sprockets. Do not rotate the crankshaft after removal.

Step 3: Removing the Factory Camshafts

The J-series engine has two camshafts: one for the front bank (cylinders 1-3) and one for the rear bank (cylinders 4-6). Never swap cam caps between positions; they are line-bored and must remain in their original orientation.

  1. Remove the camshaft position sensor from the front bank.
  2. Loosen the cam cap bolts in a crisscross pattern, starting from the outside and moving inward. This prevents warping the bearing surfaces.
  3. Lift the camshaft straight up using a camshaft removal tool or two bolts threaded into the cam flange holes. Avoid prying against the bearing journals.
  4. Repeat for the rear bank. Clean the bearing surface and cap housings with a lint-free cloth.

Step 4: Installing the CompCam Camshafts

Before installation, apply a generous coating of camshaft break-in lube (provided with the kit) to each lobe and bearing journal. Use engine assembly lube on the cam bearing surface inside the head.

  1. Lower each new camshaft carefully into place. Rotate the cam slightly to align the lobes with the valve buckets; do not force it.
  2. Apply a small amount of thread locker to the cam cap bolts (blue). Install the caps in their correct order, again tightening in a crisscross pattern to the factory torque specification (typically 8.7 ft-lb for the J32).
  3. Install the camshaft sprockets. Ensure the keyways align with the camshaft keys. Tighten the sprocket bolts to 57 ft-lb using the cam holding tool.
  4. Set the crankshaft back to TDC. Rotate the cam sprockets so the timing marks face upward and align with the timing cover marks.
  5. Install the new timing belt. Follow the belt routing diagram, and then apply tension according to the Honda service manual. Rotate the crankshaft by hand two full rotations and recheck timing marks.

Step 5: Reassembly and Fluid Refill

With the timing set, replace the valve covers with new gaskets. Apply a thin bead of Honda Bond on the cam cap corners as needed.

  • Install new spark plug tube seals before placing the valve cover.
  • Reinstall the coil packs, spark plug wires, intake duct, and all accessory belts.
  • Refill the engine with fresh oil plus a camshaft break-in additive (zinc/ZDDP). Fill the radiator with coolant and bleed the system.
  • Reconnect the battery and prime the engine by removing the fuel pump relay and cranking for 10 seconds (to build oil pressure before starting).

Step 6: Engine Start and Cam Break-In Procedure

This is the most critical phase. A flat-tappet camshaft (though the J-series uses roller followers) still requires proper break-in to prevent lobe damage. Follow these steps exactly:

  1. Start the engine and immediately raise the RPM to 2000–2500 and hold steady for 15–20 minutes. Do not let it idle — lifter preload and cam lubrication depend on oil pressure at higher RPM.
  2. Monitor for oil leaks, unusual noises, and check engine oil pressure gauge.
  3. After the break-in period, let the engine idle. Listen for any ticking from the valvetrain. A slight increase in valvetrain noise is normal with aftermarket cams.
  4. Inspect the valve cover gaskets for leaks after the engine cools.

Tuning for Full Power

A CompCam camshaft changes the engine’s airflow and fueling requirements. Without ECU calibration, the factory air-fuel ratio will be off, and the full horsepower gain will not materialize. Options include:

  • FlashPro or ECU reflash: Many tuners offer base maps for Stage 2 cams on the TL Type S.
  • Dyno tuning: A professional session with a wideband sensor ensures safe ignition timing and fuel delivery. Expect 12–15 hp without tuning, but upward of 20 hp with proper calibration.
  • Upstream supporting mods: For best results, pair the cam with a cold air intake, high-flow catalytic converter, and a free-flowing exhaust system.

Consider visiting AcuraZine forums for proven calibration files and tips from owners who have completed this swap.

Common Pitfalls and Troubleshooting

Timing Belt Misalignment

The most frequent mistake is off-by-one tooth timing. After installation, rotate the engine by hand and verify all timing marks align. If the engine cranks but runs poorly, recheck timing immediately.

Oil Leaks at the Valve Covers

Uneven tightening of the valve cover bolts causes leaks. Torque them to the factory spec of 8.7 ft-lb in the proper pattern. Use new gaskets exclusively.

Excessive Valvetrain Noise

If clatter persists after break-in, check valve clearance. Some CompCam profiles require adjusting the rocker arm lash to 0.008–0.012 inches for the intake and exhaust. This is done by turning the adjusting screw on the rocker arm.

Final Thoughts

Installing a CompCam camshaft on your Acura TL Type S is a rewarding project that transforms the engine’s character. The installation requires mechanical aptitude, patience, and proper tools—but the result is a more responsive, higher-revving V6 that delivers tangible power gains. If you are not confident in setting timing or performing the break-in, seek assistance from a Honda-specific performance shop. Well-executed, this upgrade will become the foundation of your future modifications.

For further reading on camshafts and engine tuning, High Performance Academy offers detailed courses on cam selection. Additionally, refer to the CompCams product page for the J32A2 for specific grind data and valve spring recommendations.