toytrain13

I'm feeling like a dummy here. From another thread: (to remove engine cover) "remove three hex nuts." Looking into the three engine cover recesses (wells), I see a tiny hex head deep down in each , but I don't know how to remove them. Is a special tool needed?
My car is a 2002 ES300. I intend to replace the PCV valve (I have the necessary deep socket).

toytrain13

I'm a real dumb-***! I finally figured out that a rather large allen wrench would remove the little cylindrical "nuts."
Then I found that I had bought the wrong PCV valve (#12204-20040). This is the screw in type, but it looks like the PCV valve on the engine is the push-in type (w/rubber gasket).

ES300NZ

- not dumb, just inexperianced.



or similar.

um ... I read this and got concerned. I'm not sure why you'd need a specific socket for that, (having done it), or why you're replacing that valve (there is a reason right???). You basically have to take the inlet system & upper engine manifold off, and rear cam cover to do this job. perhaps it might be best if you get some help before you run into real trouble.

- note, people often replace alot of things while doing this job.

hypervish

No, you don't need to do any of that. It's a simple job.

But, I'm not sure why the OP is removing the engine cover. Because it's not necessary to remove it.

artbuc

Replace the rubber grommet too. That will be much harder than the PCV valve itself. The grommet will likely be hard and break-up as you remove it. Take your time using a screwdriver and needle nose pliers.

hypervish

OP says he has an 2002, so there shouldn't be a rubber grommet. But, he said he apparently has the wrong part and it's not the metal PCV.

Which is highly unlikely, unless he got the year of his ES wrong, and it's an 2001 or older.

BDSL

Damn....get someone to help you. You are going to break something while replacing the PCV.

artbuc

Or maybe not the original engine...only the Shadow knows for sure.