So a little while back I replaced the timing cover gasket along with all the gaskets that go along with doing that via haynes manual. Well turns out I think I over tightened some, if not all the bolts on the timing cover. I recently replaced the gasket on the upper and lower oil pan and after inspecting the leaking gasket on the oil pans I can only assume the timing cover gasket looks the same. (when I say gasket i mean ultra black) So after inspecting the undercarriage there is a leak coming out of the bottom left of the timing cover, which looks like it is caused by a faulty gasket seal.

Ok now to the question, to replace the timing chains/tensioners/guides, etc last time i removed just about everything on that side of the car. I was looking at it today and have been wondering if it is neccesary to remove all that just to do the gasket. Mainly the plenium, oilpans, alternator, ps pump, all that good stuff. Yes I will have to remove the crankshaft pully and belts and minor things, but do I really need to take off everything the manual says? Yes to replace the chains you do because you have to turn each sproket individually but does anyone know if this is possible? Thanks guys, sorry for the long question!

 

You did the gasket before without taking out the engine? That space is so tight, I didn't know it was possible.

 

Yes it is very possible, difficult and a bit awkward but doable.

 

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