Hi guys,

I started replacing my 22re head gasket yesterday(my first HG change) and now have the head removed. I tied a piece of wire to the cam sprocket and chain to hold tenstion on it during the removal(market at TDC), but i noticed the tensioner extended out and it looks like there might not be enough clearence to get the sprocket back onto the camshaft.

Does anyone know the easiest way to get the sprocket onto the shaft? or do i just need to pry it high enough to fit? or remove timing cover to gain access?

Just wanted to ask before i jumped into it. I still have to order the parts and have my head checked out.

I thought about replaceing the timing chain anyway(has unliked plastic guides), but the 22re was rebuilt about 2yrs ago, so i figured it would be ok.

No rush, but Thankx in advance. this site has already been extremely helpful.

 

if the tensioner popped out, you will likely need to remove the cover to pop it back in...

 

You can just take a screwdriver and and pry it up, it'll push the tension back in.. The sprocket will rotate slightly when you do this, so it may take some finesse.... Don't pry on anything threaded or aluminum.

 

The tensioner didn't pop all the way out, so it looks like i'll be pryin.
Thanks, i feel better now, was not looking forward to un-needed headach!

 

You can also just pull up on the timing chain and rock the crankshaft back and forth the tensioner will go back in.

 

If your doing a HG do yourself a favor and do the timing chain. They need to be replaced, and when you do replace it you have to pull the head... so might as well do it now... As with a fuel filter, since its 10x more accessible with the plenum off.

 

Bah, huge understatement. Even with a 1-2" bl, it's still a PITA to get to that little bugger. If your plenum is off go out of your way to pick up a fuel filter.

 

I've read about the "dreaded" fuel filter replacement and to be honest, I didn't find it all that difficult. On mine, there is a removable plastic/rubber panel inside the fender well. I took that off and reached in with a wrench and viola. Not that big a deal. I did already have the wheel off for something else though. That being said, it is easier to do it now but not the end of the world if you don't.

I do agree with doing the timing chain though if it hasn't already been done. When they go they can cause some damage and you are more than half way there already.

 

Actually, i just replaced the fuel filter before i found out the HG was the problem. Just my luck. oh well