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?

 

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.

 

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.

 

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