7MGE Head Gasket Replacement

69ho · 08-20-2013, 01:03 PM

I am replacing the head gasket on my '89 Supra and noticed on re-assembly that the top surface of the rear timing cover is above the block deck surface from around the middle of the cover over to the left side and at or below the surface going the other way. This engine was rebuilt by the previous owner and it does not appear that the block deck was cut. I would expect to see this across the entire cover if the deck was cut and the cover was not installed and cut as well. I cannot find a good illustration that shows what locates the cover on the block. Maybe a dowel pin is missing? Is this normal? Where should the surface lie; at or below the block deck?

cre · 08-20-2013, 09:17 PM

The rear timing cover MUST be cut level with the block deck. If it's cut a couple thou too far it'll probably be fine but if it sits higher you're going to find your HG leaking sooner than later. Have a machinist measure it and cut the timing plate to match.

69ho · 08-21-2013, 12:59 PM

Can anyone tell me how the cover is located on the block? Dowel pins?

Bill UK · 08-21-2013, 09:23 PM

It`s been a few years since I removed one, but I think there are 2 dowels apart from the bolts and nuts. I also remember replacing 2 gaskets and a couple of oil seals.

Bill UK · 08-21-2013, 09:36 PM

Not sure but I think the oil sump is also bolted to the bottom of the rear timing case. At the time I was doing a total engine build so the sump was already removed.

cre · 08-22-2013, 05:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bill UK

Not sure but I think the oil sump is also bolted to the bottom of the rear timing case. At the time I was doing a total engine build so the sump was already removed.

Yes, it is. This isn't something you want to remove with the head in place either... just in case someone thinks it's possible. (It is but it's a horror story and there are modifications and sacrifices which must then be made.)

08-20-2013, 01:03 PM	#1
69ho Stock Join Date: Aug 2013 Location: Huntsville, AL Posts: 6	7MGE Head Gasket Replacement I am replacing the head gasket on my '89 Supra and noticed on re-assembly that the top surface of the rear timing cover is above the block deck surface from around the middle of the cover over to the left side and at or below the surface going the other way. This engine was rebuilt by the previous owner and it does not appear that the block deck was cut. I would expect to see this across the entire cover if the deck was cut and the cover was not installed and cut as well. I cannot find a good illustration that shows what locates the cover on the block. Maybe a dowel pin is missing? Is this normal? Where should the surface lie; at or below the block deck?

08-20-2013, 09:17 PM	#2
cre Toyota Racing Development Join Date: Apr 2007 Posts: 5,038	The rear timing cover MUST be cut level with the block deck. If it's cut a couple thou too far it'll probably be fine but if it sits higher you're going to find your HG leaking sooner than later. Have a machinist measure it and cut the timing plate to match. __________________ If something breaks or you need to contact a member of the administration please post HERE. Unless it's a private or administration matter please post it on the forum. It benefits no one else if car related questions aren't posted for future users and takes away from the time I'm able to spend helping on the rest of the forum. If you're so inclined I'm always more than happy to accept tips via PayPal. Tip Jar --->

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08-21-2013, 12:59 PM	#3
69ho Stock Join Date: Aug 2013 Location: Huntsville, AL Posts: 6	Can anyone tell me how the cover is located on the block? Dowel pins?

08-21-2013, 09:23 PM	#4
Bill UK AEM EMS Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: UK Posts: 891	It`s been a few years since I removed one, but I think there are 2 dowels apart from the bolts and nuts. I also remember replacing 2 gaskets and a couple of oil seals.

08-21-2013, 09:36 PM	#5
Bill UK AEM EMS Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: UK Posts: 891	Not sure but I think the oil sump is also bolted to the bottom of the rear timing case. At the time I was doing a total engine build so the sump was already removed.