I have the engine oil pan, timing cover and water pump off right now. I will be replacing the rear main seal also.
Based on my experience from previous engines, you have to install at least one of these first, or the others won't line up and fit right, if all are removed. And then you have to loosen something else to make something else fit.
I will be applying "right stuff" gasket maker to the timing cover water passage to block mating surface only, not on all of the timing cover.

What sequence should I follow to ensure everything is going to fit in the end.
I'm thinking rear main first, then oil pan and timing cover. I have to take the engine off the stand to install the rear main and then put it back on the stand and do the pan and cover.
What do you think?

Edit: Engine oil pan, not "trany pan". Looks like I can't change the title of the post.

 

I agree, rear main first... then the service manual sequence is...

2004 Service Manual

(12) Install timing case cover(Refer to 9 - ENGINE/VALVE TIMING/TIMING BELT / CHAIN COVER(S) - INSTALLATION). (
(13) Install the oil pan(Refer to 9 - ENGINE/LUBRICATION/OIL PAN - INSTALLATION)

 

Yeah, I think there are some dowel pins for the timing cover, and that makes sure it is in the 'right spot'. Once it is secured, there are a couple bolts for the oil pan that go into it.

 

Yeap, that made sense to me also. However, I'll do the timing cover and oil pan at the same time. I need to consider the sealant on the pan and cover. So it's a matter of not rushing but also can't mess around with it too long and can't move the covers too much once in place.

Thanks again.

 

Right, I forgot about the pins. But I bet the pins are not enough to guarantee perfect alignment. This is what I've found to be the case in other engines. So installing them together and allowing for wiggle room while you do it is critical. Now it's all coming together in my head.
Thanks again.