Last minute pointers before valve cover removal

[JohnW63]

After reading a number of old posts, and ordering parts from AutoZone, I will probably be replacing the valave cover gaskets and plug well seals, this weekend. I'll be putting new Motorcraft plug wires on too. ( Thanks for all the info and prices sdpatt! ). I was just looking for some, " been there done that, wished I'd known that first " kind of tips.

I have the Helms manual
I'll try to come up with a vacumn system for cleaning the plug wells
Hopefully the intake gaskets stay intact, 'cause I didn't order those.
Where can I get the Barimans cleaner you guys mentioned to clean the intake ?

I have a '95 with ATX, California model.

I've read that this could take 3-4 hours. Why so long ?

JohnW

 

[Mike Kopstain]

It really shouldn't take you that long. The first time is always a bummer, but after that it's a breeze. Me and my buddy can now remove and reinstall the intake and valve cover gaskets in 30 minutes. Just take your time, make sure you get all the vacuum and coolant hoses and you should be fine. I think you'll find it is a lot easier than it's made out to be.

 

[luigisho]

Baggies and masking tape. Label everything as it comes off. Even the hoses which only need to come off one side. The Berryman's is available at Autozone or most other auto parts stores. Even more important is to use a torque wrench. The valve cover bolts are weak and prone to breaking (not to mention odd shaped and expensive). Extracting broken studs from the rear bank at an awkward angle is a real treat. Make sure the vacuum hoses at the rear left are clear when you reinstall the intake it's easy to torque the thing back on with them wedged underneath. Good luck!