cam install... latest snag - timing cover seal!!
 

Ok, for future reference I would like to know how you get the timing cover seal on while putting it in at an angle!!! I know it must be easier than what we are trying to do. We have dropped the oil pan almost off (all the bolts are almost out) and we angle the timing cover in. we can get the bottom of the lip inside the gasket, but then how in hell do you get the sides of the oil pan gasket over the lip!?!?!?!

well, basically what happened to us, is after 2-3 hours of trying to get that damn gasket to work, it broke, so today we will have to drop the oil pan and replace the gasket, should make installing the timing cover a lot easier though... hehe. Any advice on this subject is appreciated... thanks again.

I could really use some help here too. I am in the same position, with the same re-install issues (but I haven't broken the pan gasket . . . yet).

I have loosened all of the bolts except the two rear ones, and its apparent that I'll need to do more to make this install work.

Any shortcuts to fitting the timing cover???

raise the engine and drop the pan, that is what i had to do.;)

A V8 RX7, that sounds cool

YOu can just RTV the gasket back together, mines been like that for awhile.

Put the bottom of timing cover over the oil pan and have buddy push down and in on it really hard. From the top, push down and towards the block. Once it starts to go over the pegs, whck it with a rubber mallet a few times. Works like a charm.

drop the oil pan and replace the gasket, thats what you usually have to do. Ive been told its much harder on an m6 though.

You're sh*tt*n me? What about damage to the main seal?

Dont hit the seal with the hammer, lol. Plenty of room up by the water pump driveshaft hole to hit.

On the oil pan gasket, i would actually suggest cutting it off when removing the timing cover. Make two little slices with a razor blade (left/right bottom side of cover) and pull off the cover. Chance are if you dont, gasket will rip and be harder to re-seal. If its cut cleanly, much better seal.

I was able to lift the engine about two inches with a hoist, which was enough to get the cover on without tearing or cutting the seal.

A friend of mine is a ferrari mechanic here in Portland, and he recommended cutting the gasket, at an angle, at each corner, then RTV'n the crap out of it when reinstall time came. Unfortunately, he gave me the advice at the bar right after I rented the lift, and right before I was about to do the install. What a time saver this idea could have been.

I have ferrari mechanics agreeing with me, thats hot. :D

it sure is a cake walk to have the motor sitting on an engine stand like mine is right now ;)

I am having the same problem with my car and just wanted to know what all you did to be able to pull the motor out far enouph to get the oil pan off.

Hate to say this, but while you can take the boy out of Detroit, you can't take Detroit out of this boy!

My 95 lt1 is installed in an 88 rx7 convertible. Engine principles apply, but clearance principles don't.

Note that the top mechanics agree that making a clean cut near the top of the gasket loop will facilitate an easy reinstall. Clean the crap out of the re-seal area with contact cleaner, eather or brake cleaner, then RTV the crap out of it.

Good luck.