6 replies to this topic

[orangeteg]

can i remove both tappet covers from my 998 engine to clean them from oil and replace the gaskets while the engine is still on the car? It wont require any special skills right to fit it back? Because i see there is just one bolt per cover so i guess i just remove that bolt, change the gasket and bolt it back? I know it might be a stupid question so excuse me

[Cooperman]

can i remove both tappet covers from my 998 engine to clean them from oil and replace the gaskets while the engine is still on the car? It wont require any special skills right to fit it back? Because i see there is just one bolt per cover so i guess i just remove that bolt, change the gasket and bolt it back? I know it might be a stupid question so excuse me

Not a stupid question at all.
Yes, that's all you have to do, but it can be a b****r to re-fit the new gaskets as they always seem to want to slip out of position. You could try putting them onto the covers using RTV sealant and then wait until that sets. It's easier with the engine out of the car, but can be awkward with it in-situ, especially if you leave the exhaust manifold on when doing it.

[orangeteg]

thanks, i guess i ll try that with the exhaust manifold removed first

[Cooperman]

thanks, i guess i ll try that with the exhaust manifold removed first

A quick tip for you, if I may.
When re-fitting the inlet & exhaust manifold, remove the head studs and replace them with 1.25" long x 5/16" UNF hex. head bolts. That way, if/when you have to change the head gasket, you can do it without undoing any carb connections (like fuel, throttle cable or choke) or manifold to exhaust pipe fixings, just those 5 bolts. The head just then lifts off.

[Dan]

When refitting the tappet chest covers, don't over tighten them. If you go too far it just distorts the covers and then they'll never seal. But if you don't go tight enough, they won't seal either! It's tricky to get right, and as above they tend to slip about all over the place and not want to seal.

[Cooperman]

When refitting the tappet chest covers, don't over tighten them. If you go too far it just distorts the covers and then they'll never seal. But if you don't go tight enough, they won't seal either! It's tricky to get right, and as above they tend to slip about all over the place and not want to seal.

Just thought - there must be little rubber seals under the cup-shaped washers for the cover plate centre bolts. I think you can now buy these again.

[bmcecosse]

There ARE little seals under the heads and they must be renewed if you want an oil tight engine. I only ever replaced the two end studs with bolts - the others can stay as studs with the special long hex brass nuts of course...........