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Re: timing cover removal

To: datsun-roadsters@autox.team.net, whest172@wheatstate.com
Subject: Re: timing cover removal
From: walter@omni.sps.mot.com (Thomas Walter)
Date: Sun, 30 Jan 00 18:15:05 CST
Dwight commented:

>    I also have to replace water pump, so had radiator rodded and with
>  everything out, decided to go into timing chain.  It appears cover is
>  sandwiched between head and oil pan.  Can I get it off by dropping pan?
>  Please don't tell me to pull head. 

Answer is yes and no. ;-(

To get the front timing cover off, you need to remove the two STUDS
in the upper front of the cover. They go through a casting on the
cylinder head, and are then tightened with nuts on them.

While it is possible to remove ONE stud, the other is near impossible
without removing the head. Not really a lot of fun!

Over the years when I redo an engine, I like using stainless steel
inserts into the aluminum cover, which allows me to then use a
common 6mm x 1.00 mm bolt. With the bolts in place, I can pull 
the front cover without removing the cylinder head.

Usually you will tear that front portion of the head gasket when
removing the cover. This is the rare time I will actually use some
RTV sealant during reassembly to prevent an oil leak.

On the oil pan, it is a good idea to drop the whole pan. Once again
you have studs on the timing cover going down into the oil pan.
Pan is pretty simple to drop while the engine is in the car.
Gives me a chance to look at what is in the bottom of the oil pan,
and inspect rod bearing #3 for wear. Typically it will show the
most wear of any rod bearing, and looking at the bearing condition
will give me a good idea of the health of the bottom end. 

Hmm... seems to me last time I was looking for a water leak, I
ended up pulling the engine & transmission for a new clutch
"while I was in there". Gives you an idea I get carried away at
times.

Cheers,

Tom Walter  '67 2000
Austin, TX. '68 2000




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