Expert: Sean Halliday - 11/17/2009

Question
Hello!  I recently had my truck in for a recall and asked them to check for a coolant leak that I could smell - no puddles or anything like that.  They said I need a timing cover gasket and lower intake manifold gasket.  Truck has 120K miles.  My question:  As long as I am tearing this apart to replace gaskets, should I just replace the belt and water pump at the same time?  Anything else that you can think of that I should do now also?  Many thanks -

Bill

Answer
Change any bad hoses,seals,belts,clamps and anything else you see corroded or worn.You will need to remove the water pump to get at the timing cover so might as well replace it(water pump).This engine does not have a timing belt,it has a chain which normally does not need replaced.Look at the belt tensioner and belt and if worn or signs of cracks ,replace the belt.Replace the thermostat as you change the water pump and also make sure you mark the cam sensor before you remove it.The lower intake gasket is a fair amount of work and i suggest a Haynes or Chiltons for this car.