I need to replace my timing chain cover. Aparently it is a common problem for the gasket to leak radiator fluid? Is this true? The service manual talks about needing a special tool to put the cover back on. Is there any other way to get it on without the tool???

Also, are there any other tips for takling this task. what exactly needs taken off to get the cover off and the gasket replaced. Thanks!!!

 

drain rad
take off clutch fan
take off fan should
take off the baket that holds the alt
take off pully
take off balcaner,,, will need a puller for that
put a bucket under the water pump
unbolt water pump
start takeing the bolts out the t-chain cover a few will have water come out so be ready

thats it

no special tool unless it a pully puller

 

You have a 360? I just did mine with no special tool. Without looking at mine I recall pulling accesory bracket and accesories, water pump and fan, crankshaft pulley, and you'll probably have to pull radiator, trans cooler and ac condensor... You will need a pulley puller for the crank pulley if that's the specialty tool they were referring to.

 

The harmonic balancer requires a special tool. A Harmonic balancer puller, AZ rents it. If you don't use this tool and you damage the rubber material in the harmonic balancer, it can grenade the entire engine. "Grabbing and yanking like hell" is a BIG NO NO!

No need to pull the radiator, that's only on a cam swap . I put a thin coating of Permatex Thermostat housing RTV on both sides of the gasket on reinstall as well as the bolt threads of the TC cover as they do enter the water jacket. Ditto for the water pump gasket. The RTV comes in a smaller tube than most their other RTVs. A gray tube with a blue cap. It usually helps seal better and hold longer.

 

The dealer manual says that a special tool is required to install the new crankshaft seal, but it's not. If I remember correctly the dealer service manual shows that you install the cover, and than use a special tool to press the new seal into place, but a 2x4, and a hammer serve the same purpose, although obviously this needs to be done before installing the cover.

 

Be careful when you pull the cover away from the oil pan gasket there is RTV in the corners and if you tear the gasket you will have to drop the pan.

 

here's a pic of a typical puller for the harmonic balancer.
it bolts to the INNER section of the balancer, not the outer.
do NOT use a standard 2 or 3 jaw puller on the outside section, or you'll pull it apart and ruin it.

tip - when you attach the puller to the balancer, do NOT let the puller rod contact the precious threads in end of the crankshaft. instead, reinstall the big crank bolt about 2/3 of the way in, and let the puller push against the head of the big bolt. otherwise you risk damage to the threads, and ruining the crank.

you can rent this at autozone/advance or buy for about $20.
http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden...9/product.html
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00947626000P

 

I recommend using the the harmonic balancer puller and the installation tool.
http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/de...0716&ppt=C0374
It helps guide the HB on the crank snout nice and straight without damaging the seal or the threads.
You can borrow both tools from most any auto parts shop.