help. lifted the cam cover

[Tattooroo]

Hoping for some advice. I've a Clio 172 cup, had some issues with immobilizer. Reset and cleared codes but then it ran bad, struggle to get passed 2500/3000 revs, rough idle and emission engine light was on. Diagnostics said the lambda sensors but put this down to the decat. Mechanic friend said plugs/leads. Took the inlet off and thought I'd take the cam cover off to paint not realising its not like normal cars, only lifted one edge 10mm if that. Then decided to google why I wouldn't come off. Have I messed up? I bolted it back down swore alot. Plugs were fine btw. Really losing the will to live an love for this car. I know I should leave somethings to those who know. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you

 

[Jekyll]

You need to jack the engine up from the sump. Put some wood under a jack and raise it a tad then you'll be able to remove it.

Forget that, I thought I read cam belt cover.

 

[Tattooroo]

In removing the cam cover, its not going to affect timing or the cam belt is it? I really don't know renault(vw lifer)

 

[Dan@SJM]

It can do. If you released it enough to release the tension on the belt.

 

[Tattooroo]

Only 10mm+/- throttle body end. I'm not enjoying Clio ownership so far

 

[bashracing]

Don't risk it,
Have the belts and dephaser done while it in bits and put it down to experience,
No need to paint the cam cover, not seen a rusty one yet.

 

[PP200t]

Don't risk it,
Have the belts and dephaser done while it in bits and put it down to experience,
No need to paint the cam cover, not seen a rusty one yet.

Never rusty just covered in oil. Lol

 

[Laine_16v]

Take it all apart, you'll have to re-seal the cam cover properly.

 

[Addicted]

Ouch.

I'd love to know how many people have actually done this, and then had that "f**k" moment.

 

[Tattooroo]

Hopefully not just myself, belts an dephaser were done in April by previous owner but the rear of the cam cover leaked afterwards, I foolishly thought it would be an easy fix while I tarted up the bay. Will get someone in the know to carry out the rest of the work. Thank you everyone for not giving me stick

 

[RS Charlie]

We've all been there, well some of us have.

I once went for the head bolts on a VW PD engine instead of the cam bolts. How I felt like such a wally!

 

[Tattooroo]

Only way we learn

 

[MJClio]

Very nearly did this myself, was only when I went to order a gasket and couldn't find one that I asked my mate who has one and he told me not to lol
Happens to the best of us pal

 

[STEVE.M]

No need to paint the cam cover, not seen a rusty one yet.

It is essential to get the cam journals powder coated though!

 

[Hodgins]

Quick question, whats the reason they cant be taken off on an F4R?
Like what part does the cover play?

Really curious

 

[Ol’ Tarby]

Quick question, whats the reason they cant be taken off on an F4R?
Like what part does the cover play?

Really curious

It holds the cams in

 

[Hodgins]

Simple, lol
Plus an explanation i understand

I looked waaay to much into it and thought there was something more to it