Thread: Timing Chain Cover Gasket Replacement

Hey guys, sorry if this has already been discussed (checked other threads and such but didn't find the exact question I had).

I recently bought a 1989 Nissan 240sx with a Redtop SR20DET out of an S14. The engine itself is good if not needing a few things but it has a pretty decent size leak that my instructor and I discovered was coming from the timing chain cover. I already ordered the part and it's currently sitting in my garage but I wanted to know if there was an exact procedure to installing it besides pulling the cover off, replacing the gasket, and torquing it down. He was concerned about the pistons needing to be TDC or BDC or anything in between, and if the crankshaft or timing itself would be effected by taking the cover off and replacing the gasket (I didn't think it would but I'm not a red seal and although he doesn't know much about JDM or anything about the SR20 I have to appreciate his input and take his word for it).

My question is: does anyone know the exact procedure for replacing the gasket itself, do I need to drain the oil, do I need RTV, should I be worried about the timing or the location of the pistons/crank, what is the torque spec for the cover itself, etc.

Sorry for not being too terribly well versed or mechanically inclined, I just thought it'd be better to take the word of people who specialize in the SR20 as I assume you guys would know more than some randy off a general Nissan forum. Any input is appreciated and once again, thank you guys so much.

I can take some pictures tomorrow when it's a bit brighter and hopefully not as rainy if that would help at all.

The physical cam timing is not going to be affected if you remove the upper oil pan, and timing chain cover/oil pump. You do not have to worry about that at all.

Here's what you need to remove generally in this order:
0) Mechanical radiator fan (if you still have one)
1) Accessory belts
2) Main pulley
3) Water pump pulley
4) Lower oil pan (steel) after draining oil
5) Lower oil pan baffle
6) Upper oil pan (large aluminum piece, use long bolt in correct boss to break it free)
7) Upper oil pan baffles
8) Oil pickup tube
9) Water pump
10) May need to get the power steering pulley and/or pump out of the way, maybe also alternator if you need room.
11) Timing chain cover/oil pump


Assembly is reverse of above. When reinstalling the timing chain cover, take care not to damage the head gasket at the top. Make sure the timing cover clears it properly. Take your time.

Yes you will need RTV for the upper and lower oil pan mating surfaces. Also most of us use RTV for the water pump instead of the OEM gasket (although in your case the OEM gasket will be easy to install and use). Honestly I didn't think the timing chain cover had a gasket. The FWD stuff calls for RTV I believe, and I don't think any of us on the forum use a gasket?

Ultra Grey RTV is the stuff to use. Everything else Permatex sells is legacy, which they offer because old habits die hard.

While you're in there, you should replace the oil pick-up tube gasket, and the front main seal (contained within the timing chain cover).

Also, if not already removed, there was a TSB to remove the top chain guide.

That was for the KA24DE, not an S14 SR20DET.

Ah yes, good correction!