I'm getting ready to replace the timing chain on a 91' Camaro RS with the 305. In addition to looking at various repair manuals, I've checked allot of the different f-body blogs on whether or not the oil pan has to removed or not to pull the timing cover. There seems to be different opinions on what works.

- Can anybody weigh in on whether or not the oil pan has to be removed to pull the timing cover?

- If the oil pan has to be removed is it possible to do it while the engine is in the car?

- If I have to remove the pan, do I have to use a engine hoist to lift the engine or can I jack the engine up from underneath?

Thanks for your help.

 

I removed almost all the bolts except for the back 4, so the pan hung there with enough room to get the cover off.

 

Did you have any problems with the gasket tearing?

 

Nope, I replaced it with a new gasket and had no problems.

 

ditto with z28 horn, you dont need to take oil pan completely out, just need to lower the front enough to get the timing cover off

 

Did you have any problems taking off the old gasket and the small amount of clearance to work with the pan hanging down? What material is the old gasket made of? How did you slip the new gasket by the crankshaft? Thanks...