2000 LS valve cover gasket and timing chain

Hi all, this is my first post. I bought my LS V8 2000 in january. So far I replaced the alternator and one window regulator.
Right now I experience the front sway bar noise, valve cover gasket leak and another noise, so here are my questions:
1) I was able to replace the passenger side valve cover gasket, but got stuck with the other one on the driver side. It may sound silly but I do not know how to remove the oil checking tube from the cover. I unscrewed the nut connecting it to the valve cover, but I cannot pull it out because the screw is too long. Any hint?
2) I hear a weird noise when setting the transmission from neutral to R or D. The noise is also present when driving, especially when accelerating. But there is no noise when in neutral and I give some gas. Can it be a loose timing belt? Can that be adjusted?

Any help would be appreciated. I find my local dealer to be somewhat incompetent in troubleshooting noises. They wanted me to replace perfectly good brakes.

Nicolas

As for the valve cover replacement procedure, if you private message me with an e-mail address that can accept PDF attachments, I can send you the procedure from the service manual. It will be for a 2002 V8, but should be very similar to your 2000.

As for the clunking noise, can you describe it better? Is it a clunk, is it a rattle, is it a squeak? I would not expect it to be a timing issue, but rather a u-joint in the driveshaft, rear constant velocity joint, or something in the transmission. However, without knowing more than that it's a "strange noise" I cannot elaborate any more.

-Rod

Ok, here is a description of the noise.
It is some kind of a repetitive mild clapping or tapping that can for sure be associated to a rotating part. To my experience, it does not sound like a valve clapping or engine pinging. The noise happens when I start the car and when I put the trans. in D or R. There is no noise when I increase the rpm and in neutral. When I brake, it reduces a little. When I accelerate, the noise frequency and intensity increase as well.
It comes from the front for sure. One guy suggested that it was caused by a faulty accessory belt tensioner pulley or idler pulley... My dealer says that a timing belt cannot be loose and making such a noise.

This is the best description I can give...

Hmmm, not sure on the noise. The PDFs will be on their way.

-Rod

Thanks for the procedures! Both gaskets are changed now.
I was delayed a bit because I had to go rent a fuel line fitting removal tool.

Thanks for the procedures! Both gaskets are changed now.
I was delayed a bit because I had to go rent a fuel line fitting removal tool.

As temperatures dip in the single digits, my valve cover gaskets have started to leak (01 LS8). In the service manual, it stated that the fuel line must be removed. Since you've done one, how exactly is that done? What type of fuel line fitting removal tool do I need?

Thanks.

The tool looks like pliers with a round end. You have to put this round end on the pipe and then slide it into the fitting. What that does is expanding the spring that is in the fitting...then you can pull on the fitting.
It is difficult to explain without pictures...

I just use the cheapo ones from any part store - the blue on is the one you need.

http://www.partsamerica.com/product_images/img/pbi/648339.jpg

Thanks. Do you happen to know the manufacture of the set shown? I'll see if Checker or AutoZone carries it.

got mine from autozone -
OTC
Ford A/C Spring Lock Coupling Tools
No. 7238

you need the 1/2 tube

Curious to know if there is any new information on the engine noise described in this post. I had a trusted mechanic who usually works on my LS tell me he thinks it sounds like rattling chains and tensioners. He told me he doesn't have the special tools required, and told me to find a good Jag shop. I don't want to spend a couple of thousand if someone has experienced similar engine noise and can offer more specific info.

Bought this car new, experience all the reported issues...so what...90K+ fun miles and just love the car. Plan to keep it because it's just so fun to drive.