Q: How to remove and reinstall the front cover on Chevrolet C1500 and K1500?
A: If you are dealing with a vehicle manufactured from 1995 onwards, then the V6 and small block V8 models will have non-reusable plastic front cover, which must be discarded as it cannot be reused after being removed to prevent any oil leaks. In contrast, for 7.4L V8 engines produced after 1996, there is a reusable front cover gasket and front cover that might only require a gasket replacement if the original one becomes damaged. The first step in removing the timing belt is removing the water pump, followed by unbolted crankshaft drivebelt pulley from the vibration damper. Once the number one piston is at TDC on the compression stroke, rotate crankshaft an additional 360 degrees giving caution not to turn it until when installing timing chain and sprockets. On most engines there is usually a large bolt threaded into the nose of the crank shaft used to secure the vibration damper and this necessitates its removal with a puller designed to apply force strictly on the damper hub so as not to damage it. When taking out the timing cover on certain V6s and small block V8s it may become necessary to loosen and drop down Oil Pan, requiring replacement of its gasket should it crack in this operation. Any accessories that obstruct access to timing chain cover should be removed or pushed away while on big block engines further steps include cutting oil pan gasket and remove cover. For 1995-present models remove crankshaft position sensor reluctor ring and for 7.4L engines there is special tool that's required for this purpose after which it must be replaced. One way of testing for timing chain free play is checking whether such play exceeds or falls below half inch and if so replace gears also. Next comes removing camshaft sprocket with chain assembly as a single unit; ensure proper alignment especially in cases where V6s or small block V8s have oil pan gasket deteriorated and so replace it. When it comes to gasket removal and surface cleaning, see if the cover flange needs any correction. Followed by, installing new parts like crankshaft sprocket, camshaft sprocket and vibration damper should be carried out with emphasis on correct alignment of keyways. For some engine types an application of lube oil is required while others must have sealant applied. Finally, the rest of the process is reversing the order in which these steps were taken.