I'm installing my timing cover now. Some folks say to just use a dab of rtv on the edges where the oil pan meets the block other say to use it on the entire bottom of the timing cover. Which is the correct way to do this? This is for a 98 vette BTW.

 

Anybody?

 

corners only.

 

The service manual talks about using a special tool to align the cover. My plan was to loosly install it then install the balancer and let that center the timing cover. How did you do it?

 

Just the way you described it Mike . I'm glad your on the home stretch now !

 

Aaron,

Curious, you re-used the pan gasket and didn't coat the timing cover bottom?

 

Did you throw a bead on the bottom of the timing cover?

 

Yes sir, I used RTV only on the corners. I wasn't going to drop the oil pan just to replace the front part of the gasket, it's all or nothing. Too much of a PITA. No problems with leaks.

 

Only the corners, like said.

 

When I did the first cam I coated the bottom of the timing cover, should be fun getting it apart again. If its in good shape, maybe I'll just do the corners this time.

 

I just did the corners and aligned the timing cover to be flush with the block so the pan would mate flush. I assumed the balancer would be centered then.

 

i always do the whole bottom of the cover, but it on but leave all the bolts loose, install the crank pulley, then torque the timing cover bolts. never had problem on countless installs

 

Ever pull one apart after this method? Curious as to how well it came apart.

 

whats the best way to install the Balancer ? is there a special tool ?

 

I stuck mine in the oven @ 200 degrees for about a half hour then slid it on half way, tapped it on with a 2x4 to almost 3/4 of the way and used the old bolt to tighten it down the extra 1/4 of the way. It wont distort the rubber dampner inside like some will suggest. It doesnt get hot enough. I left it facing up just incase it did but the rubber wasnt even tacky when i removed it from the oven.

 

Yes, but you can make one for about $20.

 

yeah comes right off

 

Thanks ... again !!!