Do i have to drain the oil to change timing cover gasket?

[jvincig01]

I am going to pull the harmonic balance and replace the timing cover. Do you know if I have to drain the oil first? Sorry if this is a dumb question, this is uncharted territory for me.

 

[vtgbeemer]

I don't think so but an easy way to tell is pull the dipstick and hold it beside the tube and see how high the oil level comes up in the pan and imagine a level line to the timing cover.

 

[nuclearlemon]

nope.

 

[Pighead]

no...

 

[sggoat]

Don't think so. Timing cover is higher than oil pan.

 

[jvincig01]

thanks!

 

[John Smith]

What really helps is removing the bib and radiator so you can get at the cover.