Removing Valve Covers

[kcfalcon2000]

I am needing to replace the valve cover gaskets(2000 GTP). I have the Felpros gaskets already but having problems getting the cover off with the LH engine bracket/coil pack in the way. Any help on removing that, I see two bolts but not sure if there is one on the belt tensioner too and it looks like a torx w pin? Also recommendations for getting the back one.

[SJAndrew]

I just took this off last weekened. You need to remove the tensioner - there is a stud and bolt holding it on place at its center. The torx with a pin is the stud you're seeing - you don't need to remove the stud - just the nut.

Stick a 13mm deep well socket into the center of the spring assembly (not the pulley assembly) and you can remove it. This is the third bolt holding the coil pack in place.

Perhaps due to expectations - I found the front VC gasket to be as much of a pain as the rear. Granted, I was planning on taking off a butt load of stuff for the back - the front as also a pain (removing dogbones, coil pack mount, tensioner, harnesses etc).

[kcfalcon2000]

ok got the tensioner off 13mm. then had to take the battery out so the bracket would slide out of the way.

Got the Valve cover off cleaned everything off and found, at the top of the cover where it molded around the fuel injectors, the material is thin and brittle. This has got to be why it is leaking again. There are rub marks where the injector sits too.

gonna have to get it good enough until I can get new covers. local auto parts don't have them.

Any body know a good place to get replacements that are not overly expensive?

[SJAndrew]

rockauto.com has the best prices I've seen.

[TheOtherNick]

Be baller and get aluminium ones.

[Burgundyman]

I have the stock forged plastic ones and they have held up nicely. Just make sure you do not over torque them.

[SJAndrew]

On mine, the collared insert inside the grommets makes overtorquing impossible.