The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop side plate removal on 230

Does anybody know from experience if both side plates can be removed without pulling the distributor? I know the rear one can, its the one directly behind the distributor I really need to know about.

Should come off easy. If you can see all the bolts you should be fine.

But will the front one remove w/o taking out the distributor? It sits right in front of it.

i don't think it sits against it, so it sould come off w/out removing the dist. i didn't think even the hei would block it, a points dist is even smaller.

Yes it will come off. They are a little hard to get back in with sealer on it, but it can be done with out to much trouble. Glue the gaskets to the covers and let them dry for a bit before installing them, that way you are only dealing with one slippery side at a time. Joe

Okay, thanks. Ive got a small leak in the corner and need to replace it, but hate to disrupt my timing if I don't have to. It looked awful tight, so I figured I'd ask the pros before i started.

If you can get the area really clean and dry, this will seal it,

http://www.permatex.com/brand_right_stuff.htm

Once on and dry, you will bend the covers getting them off, its that good!

Joe