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wksracing
03-16-2008, 05:43 PM
Replacing valve covers on a 2000 Monte Carlo - 3800 Series II engine....looks like I have to take the drive belt tensioner off to get the right (rear) valve cover off - can the tensioner just be loosened or does it have to come all the way off? :roll:
HeavyChevy3800
03-16-2008, 07:22 PM
It's easier with the tensioner assembly off. Just three bolts hold it to the head. Be careful with the coolant elbows as they become brittle with age. Carquest carries them in stock for less then $6 if you break one.
wksracing
03-16-2008, 08:04 PM
Does the tensioner have to come all the way off or can I just loosen it a bit to get the valve cover off? Should I drain off a bit of the coolant or at least empty the block?

Thanks for the previous reply Heavy Chevy.
HeavyChevy3800
03-17-2008, 11:04 AM
Does the tensioner have to come all the way off or can I just loosen it a bit to get the valve cover off? Should I drain off a bit of the coolant or at least empty the block?

Thanks for the previous reply Heavy Chevy.If you loosen it to get clearance the coolant elbows will begin to pull out and you'll lose coolant anyway. Might as well just pull it off. Even if you use the drain petcock on the radiator to drain the coolant you're not going to get the coolant out of the lower intake. Just throw a pan under the car, take the tensioner assembly off and let the coolant drain out and under the car.


You don't have to make two threads.

Does anyone have a suggestion as to how one may go about draining off a certain amount of coolant in a Chevy 3800 engine, so as to facilitate the removal of the drive belt tensioner.

The car CANNOT be started nor can it be moved. The coolant must be drained (partially/fully) in order to remove the tensioner. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks.
wksracing
03-17-2008, 08:32 PM
Roger the two threads...I am new to this.....but I learn quick....

Anyway, I drained the radiator, loosened the tensioner and got the old valve cover off and the new one on.......wasn't too bad of a job.....I got a little sloppy with the coolant, but do-do happens! Thanks for all the help there buddy - WKS