Repair operations possible with the engine in the vehicle
1. Many major repair operations can be accomplished without removing the engine from the vehicle.
2. Clean the engine compartment and the exterior of the engine with some type of
degreaser before any work is done. It will make the job easier and help keep dirt out of the internal areas of the engine.
3. Depending on the components involved, it may be helpful to remove the hood to improve access to the engine as repairs are performed (refer to Body if necessary). Cover the fenders to prevent damage to the paint. Special pads are available, but an old bedspread or blanket will also work.
4. If vacuum, exhaust, oil or coolant leaks develop, indicating a need for, gasket or seal replacement, the repairs can generally be made with the engine in the vehicle. The intake and exhaust manifold gaskets, lower oil pan gasket and crankshaft oil seals are all accessible with the engine in place.
5. Exterior engine components, such as the intake and exhaust manifolds, the water pump, the starter motor, the alternator and the fuel system components can be removed for repair with the engine in place.
6. Camshaft, camshaft sprockets, rocker arm and lash adjuster servicing can also be accomplished with the engine in the vehicle.