I need information on HOW to remove a 1985 Regal turbo passenger side valve cover.

[Cheval]

I have spent days trying to remove the PS valve cover. I read posts that say to remove the A/C shield, I have removed all the screws and I cannot remove the shield. Some have suggested to bump the starter to lower the #6 rocker but there is still not room to pass the cover under the turbo flex pipe. I have removed the alternator but that still does not allow room to remove the valve cover. This is an '85 hot air car not one with an intercooler. I would really appreciate any insight or tips if you have replaced the valve cover gaskets on an 84/85 Buick turbo Buick.
Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[HotAirWH1]

You will have to move the up pipe & down pipe to / from the turbo. The down pipe will not come out without the AC Compressor & bracket being moved. Although you can finagle the down pipe enough to move it out of the way without removing the AC Compressor, but you will struggle. Use some bungies to hold it clear if you go that route. Once both pipes are free the valve cover will lift out.

 

[Cheval]

You will have to move the up pipe & down pipe to / from the turbo. The down pipe will not come out without the AC Compressor & bracket being moved. Although you can finagle the down pipe enough to move it out of the way without removing the AC Compressor, but you will struggle. Use some bungies to hold it clear if you go that route. Once both pipes are free the valve cover will lift out.

I'm sorry to pester you but I want to be perfectly clear, before I remove more parts unless it is required! You first said the AC compressor & bracket must be moved (removed?). You then said I could finagle the down pipe enough without removing the AC compressor but it would be a struggle. At the beginning you said to move the pipes, does this mean remove both or loosen both? Again I'm Struggling with what I thought was going to be a Saturday job and appreciate any help I can receive. Anyone else want to offer their 2 Cents?
Thanks again

 

[HotAirWH1]

Easiest way is to remove both turbo pipes. The up pipe is straight forward by just unbolting it and removing. The down pipe is somewhat the more difficult one. To remove this one you will need to move the ac compressor out of the way and remove the ac bracket. The down pipe then will be able to be removed completely giving you a clear shot at removing the valve cover.

Now that being said, I have been able to just unbolt the down pipe from the turbo & catalytic converter (or test pipe) and then positioning (finagling) it out of the way enough to remove the valve cover. Getting the valve cover back on in this scenario is also a PITA. A little blood letting and busted knuckles.

My preferred method is to remove the ac bracket. It's less aggravating and easier in my opinion. The ac compressor will easily move out of the way without having to disconnect any of the hoses. Secure it with a bungie over on the radiator fan.

I am in the process of modifying a spare turbo down pipe to alleviate this hassle. Going to cut it in half then weld a flange assembly & V Band Clamp, Interlocking, Quick Release. No more blood & cussing !!! Will provide a bung for a wideband o2 sensor while I'm at it.

Hope this helps & good luck.