I own a Forester, but I' going to cheat and post here because this is no doubt where the hardcore mechanics are located

I am deep into the job of pulling my heads today. Pulled engine and have just removed the timing belt.

While I was removing the 'driver side' Cam Sprocket I noticed that there was some play in the Cam. I can turn the sprocket about 1/4" before I feel any tension from the CAM. I do not have these same play on the driver side Cam.

I'm afraid that this may not be a good sign.

Can anyone shed any light on this ?

Thanks,
Mike

Probably just a result of where your cam stopped in rotation in respect to the rockers. I could spin both of mine a good ways.