The Ultimate Guide to VCT Lockouts for Coyote Engines

Understanding VCT Lockouts

Variable Cam Timing (VCT) lockouts are essential for performance-focused builds. They eliminate cam phasing, allowing you to lock the camshafts at a fixed position for improved reliability and consistent performance. This is especially beneficial for high-horsepower Coyote engines.

Why Lock Camshafts?

• Reliability: Locking cams prevents the risks associated with VCT system failure, such as timing drift under extreme conditions.
• Precision Tuning: Fixed cam timing enables accurate tuning for specific performance goals.
• Simplified Setup: Removing the VCT system reduces complexity and potential maintenance issues.

Locking the cams is not a one-part job. The phasers come out, and everything they leave open has to be closed. The openings in the valve covers get filled with VCT block-offs (EN008). On 2018 and newer Gen 3 and Gen 4 engines you also need the VCT actuator deletes (EN041) — those replace the actuators, not the lockouts, so a Gen 3 or Gen 4 build takes both.

Setting the Right Cam Centerline

Coyote engines feature four independent cams, allowing intake and exhaust centerlines to be adjusted separately for optimal performance. Here are some general guidelines:

• Intake Cams: Typically locked at a centerline between 110–114 degrees, balancing power and reliability.
• Exhaust Cams: Often locked at a centerline between 112–118 degrees, optimizing scavenging and high-RPM performance.
• Custom Tuning: Adjusting the centerline depends on your specific goals, such as increased low-end torque or top-end power.

Advanced users can fine-tune intake and exhaust cam timing independently to suit their build’s characteristics.

None of those numbers mean anything until the cams are actually degreed in the engine. Our Coyote camshaft degreeing guide covers finding true TDC and measuring centerline with a dial indicator.

Mixing Gen 1 and Gen 2 Cams

Gen 1 and Gen 2 cams can be interchanged on either Gen 1 or Gen 2 heads. This provides flexibility for custom builds and high-performance applications.

• Stronger Timing Chains: Gen 1 primary chains are stronger and preferred for high-horsepower builds.
• Hybrid Setup: You can install Gen 1 primary chains and exhaust sprockets on a Gen 2 exhaust cam, enabling the use of the stronger Gen 1 chain.
• Intake Lockouts: A Gen 2 intake lockout must still be used to ensure proper functionality and compatibility with the setup.

For the full picture of what carries over between generations — chains, guides, sprockets and heads — see Coyote timing by generation: what actually interchanges.

Why Choose Billet Pro Shop VCT Lockouts?

Billet Pro Shop VCT Lockouts are CNC-machined for precision and reliability. Designed for high-performance applications, our lockouts are engineered to withstand extreme conditions and deliver consistent results. Key features include:

• High-Quality Materials: Made from durable billet aluminum for maximum strength.
• Precision Fit: Ensures proper alignment and secure locking of the camshafts.
• Performance Tested: Proven in high-horsepower builds, delivering reliability and consistency.
• Locating Pin: Includes a locating pin to aid alignment with the cam and reduce stress on the center bolts.

Recommended Installation Practices

To ensure optimal performance and reliability, we recommend the following during installation:

• Use ARP or Graded Bolts: High-strength bolts provide superior clamping force and reliability.
• Apply Red Loctite: Helps prevent bolts from loosening under high-vibration conditions.
• Bolt Upgrade Option: We offer bolt upgrade kits as an option when purchasing our VCT Lockouts.

What Locking the Cams Does to the Rest of the Timing System

Locked cams usually come with more valve spring pressure, and the timing system feels it. The factory secondary guides are plastic and they are the first thing to go: in 2000+ HP cars we have seen the factory guides last about ten runs, where our secondary chain guides have gone a full season. Treat the guides and the heavy duty secondary chains as one job — upgrading one and leaving the other only moves the weak link. Under the same load factory cam caps can flex and let the camshaft walk, which is what billet cam caps are for.