Hey guys, I just ordered some Neutral balance shafts. Is it possible to put them in without pulling the motor? The only how-to I saw had the motor pulled. It this something that is not insanely difficult to do? I have worked on smalled engines before, but not a car's. Any advice is appreciated. Thanks

 

It's a tight fit, but yes it is possible. I've done it on both Cobalts and Redlines.

 

I think if you take the right wheel off, move the suspension out of the way, take the fender liner out a bit, and drop just that motor mount there on that side then you can get that side timing cover off, which you'll need a gasket for, mine was rotten. once you get that cover off the balance shafts are right there and you can squeeze them just out of the motor into the fender well. the chain that runs that needs its tensioner taken out, it's on the bottom left of the chain. once that's out and the slack is there, take the shafts out and replace.

 

My car is an 08 with 32k. You think I will need the Timing gasket? It is a gasket thats premade or do I need RTV?

 

With only 32k, probably not. But they are prefab gaskets you can get from the dealer or CED. Wouldn't hurt to grab one just incase.

 

I've reused the timing gasket about 5 times...

you'll be good

 

^probably, but just like any gasket in your motor, it is used.