Hello-

I walked into a project in process and am working towards getting it done. I have taken my 94 Z apart a few times and pretty familiar with the engine.

I have a couple of questions:

1) I am working on a 97 LT1 (out of the car) and getting ready to put the chain / sprockets back on. It looks like the timing set was removed without aligning the timing marks. The problem is the crank sprocket is behind what looks like a cover that slips over the crank hub and has degree marks on it (the crank hub is already off). Do I need to use a puller on this as well? Without removing this, you cannot see the marks to align the cam and crank sprockets.

2) I guess this is where we get into the "different" front cover on later LT1s? My manual is for a 94 and does not show this, neither does my parts listing.

3) My only other option would be NOT to replace the crank sprocket, and figure the position slipping the new sprocket over the snout of the crank and using it as a guide. Would this be a bad thing?

4) I thought when everything was lined up properly, piston #1 should be at TDC. It is going to be close, looks like coming down from compression stroke, is it close enough?

5) Lastly, I had a engine guy tell me that the crank hub key should be at the top when everything is lined up - that is obviously wrong as proved by the manual. It looks like the key is offset to the right with the timing marks lining up in the middle.

Any comments or hints would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

 

Update - I was looking at the specs and the cover I referenced is the Ring - Crankshaft Position Sensor reluctor. So the question #1 is - just use a puller on this?

Question #2 answered.

Question #1 and #4 still open, #5 for conversation.

 

Hey paul. Use the marks on the sprockets to set the timing. I'll go check my manual about the other. I don't remember having to remove anything else after the hub had been removed.

 

It says remove the position ring and use a jaw type puller to remove the sprocket.

 

Is it absolutely necessary to break the seal on the oil pan gasket when taking off timing cover?

And if so, did you guys throw on a new gasket, or just some RTV sealant?

Thanks

 

You can do it with out just be very carefull.

 

Justin-

I only have the 94 Manual - which is worthless in this case.

This ring thing appears to be held in place by something jammed in the crank key groove.

I would love to use the marks on the crank sprocket, the problem is I cannot see them with this ring thing in place.

 

lightly tap the ring with a hammer, it should come right off

 

Thanks - I will give it a whirl.

Nothing about this ring thing in the Chilton's book - shock... Not that those are good for anything but getting you into trouble.

 

I would not do it any other way. The oil pan bolts/seals onto the installed timing cover.

 

Just make sure that little keyway doesn't get lost. And pay attention to the direction that the ring is facing when removed.

 

The timing chain, timing chain cover, and oil pan are all back on now.

Thanks for the assistance.

Justin - hope to see you at Superfest.