Timing Cover Gasket

[froglady99]

Last time my 2003 Explorer was in the shop, they said it had an oil leak and would have to change the timing cover gasket. The whole thing, including various little parts and an oil change and coolant system flush, they want $2600 to do it all. I out it off because I don't have that kind of money just sitting around. So my question is, how hard is it for a person to do that themselves? I'm just wondering if I could do it, or if I should just save up money to pay them?

 

[Number4]

You can. Have you done brakes, or alternators?

If you are mechanically inclined, it’s an easy job. You have a lot of accessor parts to take off though, it’s involved.

 

[Mr Mumbles]

Not really hard, just time consuming.

I just did the timing chains/tensioners in my '02 with the 4.6L and the trickiest part was removing and installing the radiator. A suitable puller will also be needed to remove the harmonic balancer. A 1/4" socket set with various extensions will come in handy as will an assistant with skinny hands to reach into the tight spots.

$2600 seems quite high to me so maybe a second or third estimate from someone with experience working on these vehicles might be in order.