TriniLex

Removed everything all the way to valve cover.

Got all bolts off.. The rear one is a nightmare.

On the front valve cover there are 2 black bolts/ studs (star shaped) holding a plastic wire harness. I have to get the bolt under it.
How do I remove those studs?


Also do I need to remove the black timing chain cover in picture (on left) of the valve cover. The rear one is loose but difficult to move up and out.
Any help appreciated.

BlackLexRX

E8 External Torx? I cant quite see the star head well in your picture, but I had to use an E8 to remove the studs on my oil cooler when I replaced the line. Since then while looking at my engine from different places, I've noticed them used in studs all over the place (2gr-fe).

TriniLex

HEre is a better shot of it.

TriniLex

Also having issue with back cover coming off.
Got all the bolts off but the wire harness and a plastic piece on the left side (maybe timing belt cover? see pic

Finally when I do get the cover off how to I replace the spark plug gasket tube seal?

BlackLexRX

Ok, yes that is an E (?) some size, looks like E8 to me. I bought a set of five or so External Torx sockets at Wallyworld for like ten bucks. E8 be my bet, but def E Torx

BlackLexRX

I bought a set of them like this:

TriniLex

Great now I know what I am looking for..
also found this to answer my own question on how to get the tube seals out..
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...eplace-em.html


only problem now is getting back valve cover off? any suggestions?
All bolts are out


ALSO I noticed a youtube video showing that he placed 2 5/16? washer on each valve cover bolt due to poor design from the factory? any comments on that?