I have decided to do a semi-write up of this event.

Okay, here is the engine to start with


I began by removing the air cleaner unit,


Next, I removed all of the devices/hoses mounted to the cover


Then I unbolted it, if it doesn't come loose, remove the washers on the bolts, mine then lifted right off. I then removed the cover to my tailgate workbench.

Then I took off the plastic cover on the inside of the top, and "dug out" the ORIGINAL (300k miles) grommet. New Grommet & Valve and it was as good as new. Then I routed the new gasket into the channel, and placed it back on the engine after replacing the "half moon" pieces in the front and back.


I then tightened the bolts down. The manual says 9 ft lbs, I didn't have a torque wrench, so I just went about two turns past finger tight. After that, I replaced everything. It idled better, and drastically reduced my oil leak.

These are the old parts (minus the washers)

 

Truck looks pretty good for 300K on it! How did the rockers etc look under there?
Lots of good wheeling down by Sweet Home, though I heard they have closed some of the access to the Bohemian Mines area though...

 

Thanks, I think it looks descent. The engine was rebuilt around 50k ago, so the internal components looked good. I can't for the life of me figure out why they did not replace the pcv/grommet when they rebuilt it? Oh well, its done now. Yea they did close the trails. Sucks, but what can ya do?