Ranger 4WD V6-3.0L VIN U (1997)
Valve Cover: Service and Repair
NOTE: The rocker covers incorporate integral (built-in) gaskets which should last the life of the vehicle. Be sure to adhere to the following steps when
removing and replacing rocker covers. Replacement gaskets are available if required.
REMOVAL
1. Disconnect ground cable at battery and set aside.
2. Remove air cleaner outlet tube.
3. Disconnect spark plug wire sets from spark plugs with a turning motion.
4. Remove spark plug wire set assembly from rocker arm cover retaining studs and move out of the way.
5. If left valve cover is being removed, perform the following:
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Remove throttle body.
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Remove positive crankcase ventilation valve (PCV valve).
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Remove fuel charging wiring standoffs from inboard valve cover studs. Move harness out of the way.
6. If right valve cover is being removed, perform the following:
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Disconnect engine control sensor wiring connectors on right hand cover.
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Remove fuel charging wiring standoffs from inboard valve cover studs. Move harness out of the way.
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Remove PCV closure hose from oil fill adapter.
7. Completely loosen all valve cover retaining bolts (they are captive by the gasket).
8. Using caution, slide a sharp, thin-bladed knife between cylinder head surface and valve cover gasket at two RTV junctions. Cut only the RTV
sealer and avoid cutting the integral-gasket. Lift the cover from the cylinder head while making sure that RTV sealer is not pulling the gasket from
the cover.
9. Note bolt/stud locations before removing gasket as fasteners are secured by gasket. Remove integral valve cover gasket by pulling from gasket
channel.
10. Clean gasket channel with soft cloth to remove all dirt. .
11. Clean off any remaining RTV sealant using a suitable solvent.
12. Aligning fastener holes, lay new gasket onto channel and install with finger.
13. Install gasket to each fastener by securing fastener head with a nut driver or socket. Seat fastener against cover-and, at the same time, roll gasket
around fastener collar. If installed correctly, all fasteners will be secured by gasket and will not fall out.
14. Check gasket for correct installation. New gasket will lay flat to the rocker cover in both the channel and fastener areas. If the gasket is installed
incorrectly, oil leakage will occur.