Timing Cover: Service and Repair

REMOVAL

1. Disconnect battery ground cable.
2. Remove oil pan as described under ``Oil Pan, Replace.''
3. Remove cylinder head.
4. Remove oil pickup tube from oil pump.
5. Remove harmonic balancer and the AIR pump drive belt.
6. On air conditioned vehicles, remove A/C compressor and position aside. Remove compressor mounting brackets.
7. On models equipped with power steering, remove power steering pump and bracket and position aside.
8. On all models, remove distributor assembly.
9. Remove front cover attaching bolts and the front cover.

Fig. 9 Oil pump alignment:

Fig. 10 Checking alignment:

Fig. 11 Oil pump shaft alignment:

INSTALLATION

1. Install new gasket onto cylinder block.
2. Align oil pump drive gear punch mark with oil filter side of cover, Fig. 9, then align the center of dowel pin with alignment mark on oil pump case.
3. Rotate crankshaft until Nos. 1 and 4 cylinders are at top dead center.
4. Install front cover by engaging pinion gear with oil pump drive gear on crankshaft.
5. Ensure punch mark on oil pump drive gear is turned to the rear, viewed through the clearance between front cover and cylinder block, Fig. 10.
6. Ensure slit at the end of oil pump shaft is parallel with front face of cylinder block and is offset forward, Fig. 11.
7. Install front cover and tighten front cover bolts.
8. Reverse steps 1 thru 7 under ``Front Cover, Replace.''
9. Check engine timing.
10. Check for leaks.