HiPo65

I actually have them stripped except for the round plug the Variable valve timing actuator plug goes through.

Does that round plug come out?
Does it have to come out or will it survive the powdercoat baking just fine?



Tips:
Be careful with the tab that locks the oil filler neck, It breaks easily
The valve cover bolts pop out very easily using a small socket and pushing from the backside.

Thanks

Stoenr

They do come out, I removed mine. Replacement ones are cheap if you damage them to where you want new ones. I replaced one because I am picky, it wasnt bad at all.

And that filler neck, I broke mine taking it out, lol. No biggie, wasnt planning on using it. The oil cap fits directly to the valve cover the same way. looks a little better imo.

HiPo65

Thanks for the reply
How do those come out?
Do I just push them from the inside or is there some trick to it?
I like the no filler neck idea, I'm going to check that out when I get them back

Thanks again

Stoenr

2 small flat head screwdrivers and pry on up on the tabs. They wont just pop out like a beer cap, takes some finesse, or patients if your concerned about chewing up the edges of the plug.

One thing I screwed up on, surprised others haven't done this(or just haven't admitted to it, lol)
Is somehow a ground strap that's on the drivers side between the valve cover and the firewall made its way between the cover and head on reinstall.
I would smell oil every once in a while, but never would see anything on the ground or obvious when inspecting from above.
well 2 oil changes later it was getting to bug me so I took a real good look from below and could see the wire stuck in there with a drip or 2 of oil coming down. [sm=headbang.gif]

Unbolt the cover, rescue the wire, tighten back down, and so far so good.

HiPo65

One final question..
Do you know the torque spec for the valve cover bolts?

mattblasi

How much is it costing to powdercoat them? I only ask because I know you can buy them black, yellow, blue or red and just swap them out so no real down time on the car.

Stoenr

Not sure on that, my cousin has a shop and thats where I had them done. They messed up a tad and there are a few small bubbles if you will call it that, and he didnt charge me anything

They bottom out when tight, youll know

Dumpweed

Is it pretty straight forward to remove/reinstall the valve covers? i've changed my oil on my car, and thats about it as far as wrenching on a car i've done...it was something i was considering trying...but dont want to get in over my head, lol. I"m a nervous guy when it comes to my baby, sorry, loll

HiPo65

$50
Much better than $279 for the purchased ones plus I can get any color I want

HiPo65

Yes it's pretty easy.
I'm no gearhead either but if you take your time and pay attention to where stuff is pluged in its no problem.
Mustang Monthly did a small article on how to do it in the October 2006 issue (page 97). It gave me the confidence to go ahead with it.