I'm going to change the rod bolts,oil pump and timing chain on my 74,000 mile shortblock.My question is:how critical is it lining up the front and rear covers and oil pan?Do you need the kent moore kit?Is there a simpler way?

 

um.. just bolt everything on and follow torque specs and sequence

 

i just lined it up by hand and made sure to get the covers on as best i could and i have yet to have a leak.

 

from what I hear, you should leave the front cover bolts loose until you get the damper on. this will center the entire front cover properly. then tighten down the cover.

 

thats what i did. No leaks what-so-ever.

 

Yeah, the rear cover is a bigger deal for sure...

 

So,anything special on the rear cover?

 

have to make sure you dont mess up the rear main seal.

when you get a new seal, keep the plastic ring that goes inside it. wrap some tape around it to make it bigger and put it back in the seal, it stretches it out.. keep doing it untill the rear seal goes on there real easy

 

For rod bolts, chain and pump why do you need to take off the rear cover?

 

I guess i really don't.I just thought i would change all the seals as long as I was there.

 

Understood, but unless you're also pulling the trans, the rear cover and seal are not on your way.

 

The engine is out of the car.

 

i wouldnt mess with the rear seal then.. if there isnt a problem you risk creating one