Help on front cover bolts please

[noonagon]

Hey guys/gals,

I'm currently rebuilding my ka24e out of a 1991 hardbody. This is the first engine I've attempted to rebuild and the going is slow but promising.

I bought the car from someone for $100 but the timing cover was off and he said he bent some valves. Turns out his timing guide exploded and he tried to fix it unsuccessfully. Engine was great inside.

Here's the problem, he threw all the bolts in a bag, no labeling etc so I have no clue which bolt goes where and if I have the right ones.

My main concern is the front timing cover. Loos like 10 bolts, 7 are M8x1.25 and 3 are M6x1.0 I know there the M6 bolts go. Just my the M8's. They are different lengths and I was wondering if there was a diagram or list of what goes where.

Thanks in advance and another reason I bought was the sr20det and 5-speed tr sitting in the bed.

[whomadewho]

Set the timing cover in place - Take a screwdriver thin screwdriver - place it in the whole in question - Take a piece of masking tape and wrap it around the screwdriver flush with the outside of the timing cover. - Remove the screwdriver - You now have the length of the bolt.

[JarredH]

WHat he said. Basically you just have to play a guessing game. If you end up with long ones that don't go all the way in, then you know a short one goes there. The service manual might also shed some light.

[jonathan1173]

You'll also want to use some form of Gasket Maker for the front cover. I've used Permatex with good results. I remember ReverendD has a good write up on the timing cover job and has been a great help in my projects.

[Boosted_RB25]

I did mine recently. I second the permatex idea (i did the whole cover not just the corners). I used permatex black, no leaks from what I've seen. Already past 1000 mile marker. If I remember correctly, the 2nd or 3rd from the top down on the right is an odd size. And I think the bottom 2 were an odd size as well. Your best bet is just place the cover and thread. Best of luck man.