R&R front cover tips?
 

So I have to replace my front cover. Long story, but the outer bolt for the oil return line snapped the front cover.

Anyways, anyone ever replace one ON THE CAR? Got any tips, or suggestions to make thins easier? Thanks.

Ask FerociousP.

He just did it 2 days ago.

It is not a big deal. Removing the radiator opens the whole front of the engine bay, and makes things 100% easier.

big things...

- you have to take the water pump and housing off
- unless you have a big breaker bar, take the radiator out and use air on the front bolt
- remove omp
- don't have to take the oil pan off, just remove the bolts on the front cover
- make sure you have replacement o-rings/gaskets/etc.

It is a big deal since you will almost never prevent oil leaks if you just remove the front cover.
Most sealants will not seal unless all the "old stuff" is removed and sealing surfaces are cleaned thoroughly.
This means the oil pan should be removed and resealed.
So keep this in mind...

Biggest worry is the front assembly dropping a Torrington bearing.
Mazdatrix has a nice write-up on this problem...


-Ted