Dakota R/T 2WD V8-5.9L VIN Z (1998)
Timing Cover: Service and Repair
REMOVAL
1. Disconnect the battery negative cable.
2. Drain cooling system..
3. Remove the serpentine belt.
4. Remove water pump.
5. Remove power steering pump.
6. Remove vibration damper.
7. Loosen oil pan bolts and remove the front bolt at each side.
8. Remove the cover bolts.
9. Remove chain case cover and gasket using extreme caution to avoid damaging oil pan gasket.
10. From the inside of the cover tap the front crankshaft oil seal outward. Be careful not to damage the timing cover sealing surface.
INSTALLATION
1. Be sure mating surfaces of chain case cover and cylinder block are clean and free from burrs.
2. Using a new cover gasket, carefully install chain case cover to avoid damaging oil pan gasket. Use a small amount of Mopar Silicone Rubber
Adhesive Sealant, or equivalent, at the joint between timing chain cover gasket and the oil pan gasket. Finger tighten the timing chain cover bolts
at this time.
CAUTION: If chain cover is replaced for any reason, be sure the oil hole (passenger side of cover) is plugged.
3. Place the smaller diameter of the oil seal over Front Oil Seal Installation Tool 6635. Seat the oil seal in the groove of the tool.
4. Position the seal and tool onto the crankshaft.
5. Tighten the four lower chain case cover bolts to 13 Nm (10 ft.lbs.) to prevent the cover from tipping during seal installation.