What's the secret to replacing the PCV valve on a 5.0?

[rs2k]

None of the results from my searches seems to give any realistic advice... except for the ones that mention removing the engine. After 30 minutes of failure my arm's a scratched and bleeding lump of bruises and I still can't get the valve into the hole. I can feel the hole with my finger and can line it up, but there's no way I can put any force onto getting the valve in. I don't see any tool that will fit back there either. Any ideas?

My hands might just be too big. Anyone know how much a shop might charge to do the job?

 

[Turdle]

OK, hmmm, if you could just get some more room in there. I hate to see you drive it anywhere leaking vacuum like that. That is a HUGE vacuum source.

Let's think.

One way, this is involved, but I can see how it might help. If the trans mount bolts were loosened, the transmission could be jacked up, causing a pivot at the engine mounts. This "should" bring the upper intake further away from the firewall.

can you possibly tape or zip tie a popsicle stick to it to use as a shover?

Can you find a person with long arms and fingers? Big Arms will not do here. I can reach in there but I m all the way over here.

 

[rs2k]

After about 30 more minutes, 30 more scratches, and a nice bump on the head I figured out the secret. You take it to Sears and let them get their smallest guy to spend an hour and a half trying to get back there. Fortunately, their database shows it only takes 0.3 hours to replace (Lies and Slander!) so it only cost me $34 including the valve and grommet. Seriously, I've rebuilt engines in less time than this stupid PCV valve took to replace. Curse my huge hands!

 

[Turdle]

Well, there's always that way too. Glad it's over.

You're almost broken in. These trucks use up all the space under the hood.

 

[rs2k]

I find working on this vehicle is easier than on my 2000 S-10 with a 4.3 was.... except for that dang PCV valve.

Here's how I prefer my engines:

Out in the open and easy to get to!

 

[koda2000]

oh man, now i gotta drive all the way to Sears 3 times...

 

[rs2k]

Only if you have big hands.

 

[delexploder]

Amen on the s10 I just worked on 3 Jimmy's with the 4.3 wtf I wish the idiots that engineer this crap had to work on it!

 

[koda2000]

Only if you have big hands.

I'm 6'7 297lbs... They're not exactly dainty. LOL. I was honestly considering taking the hoods off to try it.

 

[delexploder]

It sucks but I just take the upper intake off

 

[rs2k]

I thought about taking the intake of, but the intake gasket cost as much as the labor Sears charged me. I admit I felt a bit odd going to a service station for a pcv valve replacement. Lol. My poor right hand is all swollen up this morning. I wish I would have gone to them in the beginning.

For future reference: If you have larger than average hands and do not wish to remove the intake manifold to replace the PCV valve just take it to sears. They replaced mine for $34 including the part.