Yes you will need to release the belt tension because the upper half of the camshaft bearing journals are actually part of the cover itself.

 

Thank you, is it easy to lock the cams, crankshaft in place whilst I do the job? Are there any specific tools I need to buy?

 

It might be theoretically possible to leave the cams in place but it would mean that when replacing the cover the oil seals would need to be in the exact right position and not move. You would also have no idea whether they were good or not when the job was done because you wouldn't be able to see past the VVT hubs.

 

Thank you


Is there something on the right side(end) of the cams holding it down?