SBC timing chain cover

[UtlGoa]

Need some help!!!! Do I have to drop the oil pan on my sbc to install a new timing chain cover? Also is there any tricks to installing the cover while the motor is still in the car.
Thanks in advance.

[Moneypitt]

No..., but you will have to loosen the front half of the bolts and replace the front pan rubber. (usually the rubber piece comes in a T/C cover gasket set.) Experience tells me this is a critical area during installing the cover with the pan held loosely in place.( the pan won't be loose, but will flex enough to do the job). The pan gasket is usually stuck in place, so any prying/pushing can/will result in an oil leak unless extreme care is taken. The cover needs to be tightened in place, and then the pan drawn up to it. Any doubts about the pan gasket need to be siliconed as best you can prior to tightening the pan.....Good luck.....MP

[UtlGoa]

Hey thanks for the info moneypit. I don't feel like pulling a motor right now. I'll try it the way you said and see what happens.