Valve clearance and timing cover re-seal

[Sherab Puntsok]

Hi members, I’m new in this forum.
My 2003 Toyota Echo/Vitz with 1SZFE 1.0 litre engine was leaking oil from the timing cover gasket near the water pump area.

Before I remove the valve cover, oil pane, and timing cover I forgot to turn the pistons to DTC. With all these covers removed, can I still rotate the engine clockwise to DTC for checking each valve clearance at this instance? The chain tensioner and chain guides are still un-touched, just the cover removed.

The other question is how do I prepare the timing cover for RTV re-seal? What solvent should I use to clean the surfaces?

Your responses are much appreciated.

Topic

[Richard Kirshy]

With all these covers removed, can I still rotate the engine clockwise to DTC for checking each valve clearance at this instance? The chain tensioner and chain guides are still un-touched, just the cover removed.
Yes, you should have no issues barring the engine over to TDC.

[color=blue]The other question is how do I prepare the timing cover for RTV re-seal? What solvent should I use to clean the surfaces?
[/color]
Both the timing cover and mating engine block surfaces will need to be cleaned off of all RTV by using a scrapper, soft wire wheel or soft wire brush.
Acetone or brake part cleaner can be used to wipe the areas clean.

[Sherab Puntsok]

Thank you, nightflyr.

Now I have confidence to proceed.

Your answer is much appreciated.

[Author]

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