Valve covers and then what Else can I do?

[SnoSho]

Ok guys after blowing cash on replacing everything the little computer told me to. I come to find out something I was too lazy to crawl over the motor and find out. Small oil leak in valve cover gaskets was my problem and the misfire caused by that threw the codes. So now I'm on to replacing those and well I'm going to do it myself I think spent way too much not finding the problem.

So question how hard is it, I've never pulled the covers on one before and second question what else can I do while I'm in there. I'm going to buy some berrymans and clean the intake and paint paint the valve covers. Beyond that anything I can do to clean up in there while they are off not even really sure what I have access to from that point.

thanks

 

[Bizzy]

Valve cover gaskets are simple. Remove intake, remove valve covers and replace. I'd have other gaskets available if you've not had your intake off before.

While you're in there you may as well do the valve adjustment if it's needed. A general cleaning is always good to do.

When you put things back together make sure you use the proper torque for each bolt.

 

[SolidState]

ever done a 60k?

if not, promptly buy drivinhard's 60k how to video and break out your tools.

I am going to do the top end of mine soon, and am kinda pumped after watching this vid.

EDIT, best to do your plug well seals as well...those buggers are what is causing most of the problems for me...

<small>[ September 15, 2002, 02:50 PM: Message edited by: SolidState ]</small>

 

[luigisho]

Hey Teg, the video is great. Just remember that it's a lot more work with the motor in the car. thumbs_u

 

[SolidState]

lol, yeah. Still rather I do it and take my time than some knucklehead mechanic rush through it.

I am a little hesitant to tear into the front, so as long as my WP doesn't start leaking, the front main seal can dribble all it wants wink

 

[SHOfear]

When you pull the valve covers, make sure you clean all the dirt and grit out of the little holes where you stick the allen wrench in the bolts. The aluminum is very soft, and it WILL strip if the allen isn't in there properly. Also, do yourself a favor and get the allen bits for a 3/8 wratchet. Much better than those little black wrenches.

Steve

 

[luigisho]

SnoSho, are you talking about the oil leaking into the spark plugs wells I assume? I couldn't imagine any other way for the oil to cause a misfire. Be sure to clean the wells out before plug removal so the sludge doesn't ooze into the cylinder. Opening the top isn't difficult but be sure to use a torque wrench or just tighten to "snug and not tight". T-wrench is preferable. The bolts on the valve covers are very weak as are the threads in the holes. I snapped a few my first time and it was a real pain to fix the rear ones due to the angle. It isn't very difficult just be careful and don't rush yourself.

Teg, c'mon don't be scared. You know you're dying to go in there.

 

[SolidState]

hey now! I didn't say scared, I said hesitant...

I am dying to get into it! I want this thing to fly! But cost of parts is keeping me outta the game...that is why I am going to do the top now and the front when the coin starts rolling in...

 

[SnoSho]

Is it possible to do the 60 without pulling the heads or being 7 feet tall? If so that will be my project for next summer, 20 dollar tape for the winter to watch then I can dump the cash for the new waterpump and all the gaskets and 60k stuff. Though honestly the car will probably make a trip to Courtney's for that.

<small>[ September 15, 2002, 10:53 PM: Message edited by: SnoSho ]</small>

 

[shojuan]

You don't pull the heads. Just the intake manifold and valve covers. Being 7 feet tall would not help matters. Since you're planning on doing the 60K in the future, there are some things you can do now. Make a list of all the parts you need then shop around for the best prices and buy them one by one as money allows. Your price hunting will be easier in that people here have pretty much already established who has the lowest prices for what so you can assume you will be buying X part from Y store unless you find it cheaper. Hoard all your parts in a box and rub your palms together like a greedy little boy whenever you have something new to add. In less time then you think, you'll have everything you need for a 60K gathered up although you will probably eat less BigMacs and drink less beer in the meantime (a six pack of cheap beer = 1 spark plug).

Rick

 

[SnoSho]

Ok for right now I'm just replacing the wires and the cover and well gaskets. What tools do I need just to make sure I'm not running around trying to find them at the last minute?