Reassembling The Timing Cover On A 2012 Mustang GT
The video shows step-by-step reassembly of the front timing cover on a 2012 Mustang GT after work such as a water pump replacement. It covers cleaning and prepping mating surfaces, installing seals and gaskets or RTV, aligning and bolting the timing cover, and re-installing front accessory components before checking for leaks and proper operation.
Build Sequence
1. Safety and preparation
Park on level ground, disconnect the negative battery terminal, raise and safely support the vehicle if needed, and ensure the engine is cool. Gather parts and tools and review the factory service manual for torque specs and any special procedures.
2. Remove any remaining front accessories blocking the cover
If not already removed, take off components that obstruct timing cover installation (serpentine belt, pulleys, harmonic balancer/crank pulley, accessory brackets). Keep fasteners organized for reassembly.
3. Clean mating surfaces
Thoroughly clean the block and timing cover mating surfaces of old gasket material, oil, and debris using a gasket scraper and solvent. Ensure surfaces are flat and dry to create a proper seal.
4. Install crankshaft front seal
If replacing the front crank seal, grease the seal lip lightly and use a seal installer or appropriately sized socket to press the seal squarely into the block or timing cover to the correct depth.
5. Apply gasket / RTV as required
Position the timing cover gasket per the manufacturer's instructions. Where required, apply a thin bead of engine RTV to corners or mating faces specified by the service manual. Avoid excessive sealant which can squeeze into oil passages.
6. Set and align the timing cover
Carefully align the timing cover over the timing components and crank seal. Ensure the timing chain/chain guides are undisturbed and that the cover seats evenly on the block gasket surface.
7. Install bolts and torque in sequence
Install timing cover bolts finger-tight in the recommended sequence to prevent distortion. Then torque bolts in stages to the manufacturer's specified torque values using a calibrated torque wrench.
8. Reinstall harmonic balancer and accessories
Install the harmonic balancer/crank pulley using the proper installer tool so you don't damage the new seal. Reattach pulleys, belt, and any accessory brackets removed earlier and torque their fasteners to spec.
9. Refill fluids and final checks
If coolant was drained for water pump access, refill and bleed the cooling system. Reconnect the battery, start the engine, and check for leaks around the timing cover, seal, and water pump area. Re-torque fasteners as needed after a test run per service instructions.
10. Clean up and road test
Lower the vehicle, double-check all fasteners, clean any spilled fluids, and perform a short road test while monitoring for unusual noises or leaks. Re-check for leaks after the test drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I check after reassembling the timing cover?
After assembly, refill any drained fluids, start the engine and inspect for oil or coolant leaks around the timing cover and water pump areas. Also listen for abnormal noises and re-check bolt torques after a short run if recommended.
VIEW FULL ARTICLE →Should I use a gasket, RTV, or both when reinstalling the timing cover?
Follow the factory service manual for your 2012 Mustang GT. Many procedures call for a gasket plus small beads of RTV in specific corners or joints. Excessive RTV can obstruct oil passages, so apply only where specified.
VIEW FULL ARTICLE →What torque specs should I use for the timing cover bolts?
Use the torque values and tightening sequence specified in the Ford service manual for the 2012 Mustang GT. The video demonstrates torquing to manufacturer spec but does not list exact numbers—consult the manual or a reliable repair database.
VIEW FULL ARTICLE →Do I need to replace the crankshaft front seal when reassembling the timing cover?
If the seal was removed during disassembly or shows any signs of wear or leakage, replace it while you have access. It's inexpensive and much easier to do during reassembly than having to remove the cover again later.
VIEW FULL ARTICLE →Related Builds
Parts Used (5)
OEM or aftermarket replacement timing cover; cost varies by brand. May be reused if undamaged but often replaced if warped/damaged.
Replace gasket whenever timing cover is removed. Some applications use a combination of gasket + RTV in corners.
Used in corners and where specified by factory procedure to supplement gasket or on some gaskets in addition to the paper gasket.
Replace seal if removed or leaking; easier to replace during reassembly.
Replace any stretched or corroded fasteners. Torque-to-yield bolts should be replaced per manufacturer.