Spark Plug Tube Seals and Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Solenoid Seals: Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford Mustang. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
During engine repair procedures, cleanliness is extremely important. Any foreign material, including any material created while cleaning gasket surfaces, that enters the oil passages, coolant passages or the oil pan, can cause engine failure.
All engines
- Release the fuel system pressure. For additional information, refer to FUEL SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION .
- Disconnect the battery ground cable. For additional information, refer to
BATTERY, MOUNTING AND CABLES
.
All engines except Boss® 302
- If equipped, remove the 4 nuts and the strut tower cross brace.
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NOTE: The engine appearance cover rubber grommets may remain on the cover. If so, remove the grommets from the cover and install them on the intake manifold before installing the cover.
Remove the engine appearance cover.
- Detach the EVAP canister purge valve tube retaining clips from the LH valve cover and the inner fender.
Boss® 302
- Remove the 4 nuts and the strut tower cross brace.
- Remove the nut, the pin-type retainer and the LH engine shield.
All engines
- Remove the Air Cleaner (ACL) and ACL outlet pipe. For additional information, refer to INTAKE AIR DISTRIBUTION & FILTERING .
- Disconnect the Evaporative Emission (EVAP) canister purge valve tube. For additional information, refer to the QUICK CONNECT COUPLING .
- Detach the sound enhancement pipe from the inner fender and position aside.
- Remove the LH ignition coils. For additional information, refer to ENGINE IGNITION - 5.0L (4V) .
- Disconnect the 2 LH Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) variable force solenoid electrical connectors.
- Detach the 10 wiring harness retainers.
- Remove the oil level indicator.
- Disconnect the fuel supply tube. For additional information, refer to the FUEL SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION .
- Detach the fuel supply tube retaining clip from the LH valve cover.
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NOTE: Do not use metal scrapers, wire brushes, power abrasive discs or other abrasive means to clean the sealing surfaces. These tools cause scratches and gouges which make leak paths. Use a plastic scraping tool to remove all traces of old sealant.
Loosen the 14 bolts and remove the LH valve cover and gasket.
- Clean the valve cover mating surface of the cylinder head with silicone gasket remover and metal surface prep. Follow the directions on the packaging.
- Discard the valve cover gasket. Clean the valve cover gasket groove with soap and water or a suitable solvent.
- If necessary, depress the 4 tabs and remove the oil level indicator tube.
- Inspect the 2 VCT variable force solenoid seals. Remove any damaged seals.
- Inspect the spark plug tube seals. Remove any damaged seals.