Resolved Remove the front main seal cover plate ('92 4G63)

[SnP9000]

Guys I am struggling to get this front plate off the engine that holds the main seal and balance shaft seals. I know almost nothing about 4G63's so I need your help. I'm 99% sure I have all the bolts out including the ones up from the oil pan. When I pry on it in a few places the entire plate moves but springs back home like something is holding it. I was also surprised to see the stub shaft for the oil pump sprocket is moving with the plate which I figured that would be a one piece shaft sticking out...

What am I missing?

 

[pauleyman]

You have to remove the oil pan. The front case oil pump, pickup etc are all attached. You can't take the oil pump off from the front. The pump housing piece is bolted on from the back.

 

[SnP9000]

Hmm do I have remove the oil pan first? I've been working out of the factory service manual but I didn't find anything in it about removing the front cover. The Haynes manual I also have has a lot more detail on this and says to drop the pan first....

Got it! Thanks!