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I have a 94 areostar, 3.0. There is a coolent leak from the top of the timing chain cover. The leak is on the passenger side of the engine, just above the ac compressor. My haynes manuel does not mention removing the compressor to remove the timing chain cover to replace the gasket. It looks like I will have to but I wounder if any of you know for sure. Any other advise yor care to share would be greatly appreciated.
It's easiest to get as many things out of the way as you can to get at anything. The AC compressor can be loosened from its mount and moved out of the way without disconnecting its lines. It's possible to remove the front cover without removing the fan, clutch, and water pump, but it will be very awkward trying to reposition everything when you're putting everything back. The clutch will need a very large wrench to remove its nut from the water pump, and you will need another tool to hold the water pump snout steady while you're trying to loosen the nut. Some folks have been able to hold the pulley steady by applying pressure on the fan belt, but that's never worked for me.
You will also need to remove the harmonic damper before you can pull the cover off. This will require something to hold the engine steady while you loosen the bolt holding the damper onto the crank snout, and you will need a puller of some sort to pull it off. Also remember that on this engine, every service manual warns to never turn it backward, so watch that as you try to loosen the damper bolt.
Thanks for your tips xlt. I have about gotten everything out of the way except the ac compressor. Eventhough my ac does not work, I did not want to disconnect it if possible. About not turning the engine backwards, its too late. I already did. What is the danger and how do I correct it?
I agree, clear out as much as you can before replacing the cover. It will help to prevent new leaks when you put it together.
You just need to be sure your valves are closed when you align the cam timing gear. The crank gear should be on the upstroke on the No.1 piston.
When you pick up the gasket set make sure you get a new crank seal. Inspect the crank surface for a groove worn by the old seal. They sell a metal sleave to repair the groove if you need one.
You might consider a new water pump and timing gear set while you are so deep into it. If you have a lot of slop in the chain replace the set.
You are right about the water pump VanGo. The propellars are about worn off. I am going to get the gaskets after this post. The information about the valves and cam gear is most welcomed.
It took me a few moments to figure out what you meant !
PS: The valves being closed refers to the No.1 cylinder again. Basically, you want the engine on the compression stroke of the No. 1 piston when you line up the timing marks.