I am about to replace the timing cover seal as I am getting coolant in my oil sump. Read through the rave and seems mostly straight forward. Anyone have any tips beyond whats in the rave like removing the alternator or ac compressor for better access? I'll be checking timing chain, oil pump, etc while I am in there.

 

There is a hidden bolt on that front cove nestled down in a nook by water pump. And I swear it's not in the rave. So if the cover does not pop off easily don't pry, start looking for the mystery bolt.

 

Good point. I pryed on that damn cover to the point of deflection, that's when I realized there had to be one more bolt remaining.

 

I did the same thing

 

The job is pretty straight forward. I would recommend the gasket red tack prep that will help you reassemble the front cover without being concerned with the gasket.

 

If you haven't done it yet, please plan on doing the oil pump while you're in there. It's not horribly expensive, and takes just a few minutes while the cover is off. If it hasn't been replaced yet, it will fail.

 

timing chain also

 

Thanks, I plan on checking everything over once i got it apart. I stuck my finger to feel the timing chain when I did my oil pan gasket and it had what felt like a lot of slack. Engine only has 80k on it and the chain is supposed to be "lifetime"...guess will see once I can inspect it fully.

 

Once your done and everything is buttoned up and dry...


Open your drain and drain the oil. I usually pour in a quart or two to wash any gunk down.


Put in the drain and then fill with your favorite brand.

 

Who said it was 'Lifetime'? I've heard 100k is maximum life on these; don't be foolish...spend the $100 and put a new gear and chain set on there, along with a new oil pump! That's like $250 total and money well spent.