Repair operations possible with the engine in the vehicle

1. Some major repair operations can be accomplished without removing the engine from the vehicle. Clean the engine compartment and the exterior of the engine with some type of degreaser before any work is done. It will make the job easier and help keep dirt out of the internal areas of the engine.

2. Depending on the components involved, it may be helpful to remove the hood to improve access to the engine as repairs are performed (refer to Chapter Body if necessary). Cover the fenders to prevent damage to the paint. Special pads are available, but an old bedspread or blanket will also work.

3. The cowl assembly is removable and must be taken out for access to any components in the upper rear of the engine compartment. Refer to Section Valve covers — removal and installation.

4. If vacuum, exhaust, oil or coolant leaks develop, indicating a need for gasket or seal replacement, the repairs can sometimes be made with the engine in the vehicle.

5. Although some major components can be removed with the engine in place, it is usually easier to first lower the engine/transaxle assembly out of the vehicle. Because of this, most procedures in this Section do not have details for in-the-vehicle service