Oil Pan Drop

[tmontague]

Originally Posted by 06YarisRS

Thanks. I have a gasket arriving later this week.
I'm aware of what needs to be done for a valve adjustment, but would be concerned about messing with the timing. I would check the clearances and then make a decision as to whether or not to proceed. I want to learn about timing sets/maintenance/repair and have already watched a few videos. I have all the tools but am a bit apprehensive about 2 things: getting the timing right and getting a leak-free seal on the timing cover with the engine still in the car.

If I was to leave a slight valve tap - assuming that's what it is - will that be detrimental to my engine in the long run?

Getting the Valve cover seal to seal while the block is in the car is no problem, as is pulling the cams. I replaced the head gasket (have to pull timing cover) on my '02 echo with the engine still in the car and it wasn't too bad.

Checking the valve clearance is a good way to get familiar with it but as blue stated it is futile unless you plan to actually change the buckets. Likely your valves are well within spec unless the car was oil starved.

Timing isn't too bad either if you have access to the pdf repair manual. There are marks on the chain and cam gears to aid in this.