Can I remove the timing cover without dropping the oil pan (3.4 engine)?

RENAUDTN

MECHANIC
2003 CHEVROLET IMPALA
174,000 MILES

I know the right procedure is to drop the oil pan but I'm wondering if it's possible to bypass that and get the timing cover off without touching the pan.
It looks like if I get the oil seal out, I could perhaps 'wiggle' up the timing cover to get the bottom of it out of the oil pan, then slide the cover off the crank shaft.
is it realistic?
The reason why I'm even considering this is because my Haynes Manual says that it is possible to get the cover off without dropping the oil pan. They do point out though that in order to ensure proper seal the oil pan should be removed, but perhaps I could use a lot of RTV to seal that bottom? I'm planning on using RTV instead of paper gasket on the timing cover anyway.

5 Replies

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

If its possible it can be done-go for it just make sure its sealed properly and insure the RTV has set according to its instructions before you start the vehicle-Good Luck

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Friday, June 8th, 2012 AT 10:08 PM

RENAUDTN

MECHANIC
636 POSTS

I appreciate you took the time to respond.
I tried to wiggle it out; no success there. It looks like I'm gonna have to drop the oil pan after all.I suppose my Haynes manual refers to earlier versions of the Impala/Lumina/Monte Carlo when it says the timing cover can be removed without dropping the oil pan.