Thread: Valve cover removal

I've tried looking but can't find any info on what has to come off to remove the valve covers. Could someone point me in the right direction.

google. grand prix lim gaskets 33 mins - watch that. It might be in the how to section as well

For the front one...should just need to remove misc. plugs that might be in the way and the coil pack bracket needs to come off. Unplug it or the battery though.

I'd unplug the battery because you'll be yanking off the alternator and the MAP bracket/engine pull brackets to get to the rear one.

Bolts in the VC are 3/8" SAE and don't require more than 12~ ft.lbs. when re-installing.

Uh..they are 87 inch lbs of torque.

7.25 ft. lbs.

Doesn't matter really.

Squish the grommets.

It's a 3800, it'll work.

Thanks for all the replys. I scanned some more and found some info. I should be OK. Any advice on the coolant elbows? I hear they can be pulled loose when removing brackets but don't have to be.

I had enough clearance to remove the rear VC without pulling the elbow out. Most people say you can't but don't listen to them

your alt bracket lays on the valve cover, so loosen up all 3 bolts just a little bit and you should be ok, or just change them as your right there.

dorman came out with a metal elbows now.

Is there much to changing the elbows. I haven't even seen them. I plan an IC for next spring, almost enough money put away. I have an account I'm putting $40 a week into.

the elbows are easy. easier then the valve cover gasket on the rear, thats for sure lol

^^Troof.

Things get ugly if you snap the VC bolts in the head by overtorquing. The thing for people reading this to keep in mind is that Blue, myself and bunch of the normal posters here have done this stuff so much, it's a matter of habit. Blue says squish the grommets, and what he means is.. the bolts have a sleeve on them that limits movement. Once the bolt is bottomed out. and snugged down. you are all set. If you try and be a muscle man, you'll either strip the bolt or break it.

Thanks, good information. I've worked on a LOT of cars but this is my first time on a 3800. It's those particular litlle tips that make a big difference.

I've found it is easiest to remove the valve covers and change spark plugs with the engine out of the car.

I've done the plugs and wires. Hey, there's some cars out there that you change some of the plugs from inside the car.

Originally Posted by Sudden

I've done the plugs and wires. Hey, there's some cars out there that you change some of the plugs from inside the car.

That's true, I had to do it to a Nissan Leaf once.

Originally Posted by Explicit_Spade

That's true, I had to do it to a Nissan Leaf once.

What about those Cummins plugs?

I was thinking more like a Sunbeam tiger.

Can't find a compression check hose to blowup my cylinders.