engine timing cover gasket

[mmasire88]

After swapping a 2005 mustang motor into my truck it was running great, very quiet, can't even hear it running when your standing next to it. I noticed a small rattle on light acceleration. Decided to tear the front timing cover off today and found -

Installed a new tensioner and I'm ready to put this **** thing back together and actually drive it.

Any ideas as to whether or not the metal timing cover gasket needs to be replaced? Sadly, nobody has any instock locally so I have to order it. Was hoping I could get by with re-using it! As always, thanks in advanced!

 

[2000StreetRod]

any pieces found?

Either the leaf spring assembly broke off at the pivot pin or the primary chain tensioner was installed without the leaf spring assembly (not likely). Did you check thoroughly for the six leaves and the plastic arm in the pan, oil pick up tube screen or at the front of the block cradle?

I don't remember my front cover gasket being metal. Anyway, if your is and is not creased (bent) from removing the cover then it probably is reusable if you apply RTV or equivalent. Make sure both sides of the gasket have sealant if the back side of the gasket is separated from the block. Don't forget to apply RTV in the corners of the block/block cradle junctions.

 

[mmasire88]

Thanks for the reply! I had to dig around a bit inside the pan but recovered all the plastic pieces. Also, the timing cover on this motor is metal, seems to be in good shape.