2003 Mercruiser 6.2L MIE Plastic Timing Cover Replacement: Need Advice

[Greg_E]

I am in the process of replacing a leaking timing cover without dropping the oil pan. I've watched the videos on how to do this but have some concerns about getting it sealed back up. Originally the cover was installed and the lip at the bottom of the cover filled with Permatex Ultra Black gasket maker and the oil pan was then bolted in place. (Engine out of the boat) There is no way to remove the old Ultra Black gasket maker without damaging the oil pan gasket. Oddly, the gasket maker stuck very well to the silicone pan gasket but not to the plastic timing cover. If I apply a bead of the Ultra Black will it seal when going over the old cured gasket maker? Would the non-hardening type of gasket sealer be a better choice when going over what is already there? If anyone has done this successfully, let me know. Thanks

 

[Scott Danforth]

pull the pan, replace the gasket
get aftermarket billet aluminum front cover

 

[Greg_E]

That would fix the problem, but can't be done with the engine in the boat. That would be my last resort. I'm just looking for the best course of action for a hopefully successful repair by replacing the cover without dropping the pan.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Correct, however the motor only takes about an hour to remove

No way to get an oil tight seal on the pan to front timing cover without removing the pan

 

[Grub54891]

Ya, I did that ONCE years ago. Didn’t work out well. Trying to save time and effort in life just makes it harder in the long run.

 

[cyclops222]

Start collecting more money to pay for the job to be done right the first time.