Overhead Camshaft (OHC) Engines

Overhead Camshaft engines (OHC) are similar to OHV engines, but they also have their camshafts positioned in the cylinder head above the combustion chamber. This means they offer all the benefits of an OHV design and more.

The OHC layout reduces the number of valve train components, which allows them to be lighter and stronger.  This makes the engine more compact and lightweight overall.

Honda’s OHC design offers additional advantages:

  • By combining unique rocker arms and a single camshaft, the cam pulley is located on the side of the cylinder head.  This allows overall engine height to be reduced in comparison to a conventional OHC engine.
  • The efficient Honda OHC mechanism uses a timing belt in oil configuration combined with governor and connecting rod slinger paddles.  This unique DuaLube™ System efficiently and effectively delivers oil throughout the engine.