Removing Cam Covers - which way

[Corvette95]

I have read both ways to remove cam covers with motor in car. I don't have a lift right now but going to put it on 30 inch jack stands. I have the entire dash out now for cosmetic restoration and a couple of other things. I was going to remove the brake booster. Which way would be best since I have access to booster now (seats and carpet are out) OR loosen engine mount ( when is replacement normally due on mounts? This latest 90 has 33 k miles on it)

[Jagdpanzer]

Since you have the access go with the booster.


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[Corvette95]

Thanks!


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[Ccmano]

Since you have the access go with the booster.


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Agreed...
H
:cheers:

[Pete]

An easier way is take motor mount nut (18mm) off the driver side use a jack with piece of wood under oil pan raise engine and you will have access to all the cam cove screws.

Pete

[Ccmano]

A word of caution no matter how you do it. The cam cover bolts, like most of the top end bolts, are on the soft side. They easily strip. Make sure that you clean any dirt out of the inside of the bolt top. You want your torx bit to have maximum purchase. Then when your ready to remove the bolts make sure your wrench and bit are square to the top of the bolt. It’s easy to go at it at an angle and strip the top of the bolt out. Apply downward pressure to the wrench then slowly evenly break it loose.

That said I have frankly had the best luck removing the bolts with a small 1/4” battery powered impact wrench that tends not over power the bolts. I push down firmly and squarely and pull the trigger. Don’t be surprised if one or several don’t come out or strip. If that happens use a standard ratchet and torx. Worst case, the bolt tops can be drilled out and the cam cover lifted off. Usually the bolt shafts will then simply turn out with vicegrips. I’ve only had one that required a bolt extractor tool.

I do not like to reuse the original bolts for the reasons noted above. JerrysGaskets sells nice stainless allen head bolts that are much more robust. Ultimately your car, your choice.
Enjoy,
H
:cheers:

[Dynomite]

If nothing works to remove Torx Cam Cover Bolts........
Removing Cam Covers (Engine In Car) for Inspections of Camshafts (http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c4-zr-1-discussion/3005470-tech-info-lt5-modifications-rebuild-tricks-500-hp-4.html#post1581665190)


......I do not like to reuse the original bolts for the reasons noted above. JerrysGaskets sells nice stainless allen head bolts that are much more robust. Ultimately your car, your choice.
Enjoy,
H
:cheers:

Concur :thumbsup:

Cam Cover Bolts (https://www.jerrysgaskets.com/bolt-set-48-cam-cover-stainless-steel-90-95-1g1/)

[Pete]

A word of caution no matter how you do it. The cam cover bolts, like most of the top end bolts, are on the soft side. They easily strip. Make sure that you clean any dirt out of the inside of the bolt top. You want your torx bit to have maximum purchase. Then when your ready to remove the bolts make sure your wrench and bit are square to the top of the bolt. It’s easy to go at it at an angle and strip the top of the bolt out. Apply downward pressure to the wrench then slowly evenly break it loose.

Enjoy,
H
:cheers:


Bingo

Pete

[32valvZ]

Bingo

Pete

I think also a good quality tool (Torx Socket) is helpful as well. Junky ones are soft and just add to the frustration.

[Corvette95]

Had to pull the steering column so I pulled the booster and master cylinder. Had a delay with column issue but getting ready to pull the top end to send to Pete .


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