I have a oil leak at the lower right corner of my timming cover. When I replace the gasket do I need to remove the head as well as the oil pan, or can you get away without removing the head? Ive heard some remove the head some dont. Thanks ahead of time

 

You do not *have to* remove the head if you remove the oil pan. I used the steps on 4crawler.com and it was very easy to follow. Be sure to inspect the bottom of the head gasket where your timing cover was. If it gets damaged in the removal, you'll have to suck it up and replace it. It wont seal if it gets bent, wrinkled, etc...ask me how I know

The only thing you need to remember is to install the oil pan last. Oh, and remember there is a somewhat hidden bolt that connects the timing cover to the head in front of and below the cam gear. When you install that bolt be aware that the torque is very low (like 9 or 13 ft-lb from memory, but look it up) and too much torque on that bolt can crack the timing cover.

Good luck.