Timing Belt / Chain Cover(S): Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Do not use oil based liquids to clean timing cover or block surfaces. Use only rubbing alcohol, along with plastic or wooden scrapers. Use no wire brushes or abrasive wheels or metal scrapers, or damage to surfaces could result.

Clean timing chain cover and block surface using rubbing alcohol.
CAUTION: The 3.7L uses a special anerobic sealer instead of a gasket to seal the timing cover to the engine block, from the factory. For service repairs, Mopar(R) Engine RTV must be used as a substitute.
Inspect the water passage o-rings for any damage, and replace as necessary.
Apply Mopar(R) Engine RTV sealer to front cover following the path below using a 3 to 4mm thick bead (Fig 1 ).

Fig 1: Identifying Timing Cover Sealant
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Install cover. Tighten fasteners in sequence as shown in to 58 N.m (43 ft. lbs.) (Fig 2 ).

Fig 2: Identifying Timing Chain Cover Fasteners
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Install crankshaft damper (Refer to INSTALLATION ).
Install the A/C compressor (Refer to A/C COMPRESSOR ).
Install the generator (Refer to GENERATOR ).
Install accessory drive belt tensioner assembly (Refer to BELT TENSIONERS ).
Install radiator upper and lower hoses.
Install both heater hoses.
Install electric fan shroud and viscous fan drive assembly (Refer to RADIATOR FAN - ELECTRIC and RADIATOR FAN - VISCOUS ).
Fill cooling system (Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFILLING COOLING SYSTEM ).
Connect the battery negative cable.