The oil pump is mounted externally on the timing chain cover. Begin by detaching the oil filter. Next, remove the cover and 0-ring, then extract the gears from the cavity in the timing chain cover, making the oil pump cover bolts accessible after the filter is removed. Discard the 0-ring and clean the oil pump cavity; if the oil pump gear pocket in the timing chain cover is damaged or worn, replace the timing chain cover. Remove all traces of gasket material from the oil pump cover and check for warpage using a straightedge and feeler gauges; if warped more than 0.0016-inch, replace it. To remove the pressure relief valve, detach the timing chain cover from the engine, drill a hole in the plug, and pry it out or use a slide hammer and screw adapter. Remove the spring and valve from the bore, ensuring all metal chips are cleared and checking for wear, score marks, and galling; if the bore is worn or damaged, a new timing chain cover is necessary, and the valve should fit without noticeable side play or binding. If the spring appears fatigued or collapsed, replace it. Apply clean engine oil to the valve and install it in the bore, small end first, followed by the spring and a new plug, tapping it in until it's 0.010-inch below the machined surface of the cover. The oil pump pickup tube is located inside the oil pan, so remove the oil pan for access, then take off the pick-up tube nut and the two mounting bolts. When reinstalling, replace the gasket at the front. Measure the clearance between the rotors and the pump housing using feeler gauges, and also measure the clearance over the rotors. Installation is the reverse of removal, ensuring to fill the oil pump with clean engine oil before installation, install a new cover 0-ring lubricated with clean oil, and tighten the bolts in a criss-cross pattern. Use a new pick-up tube gasket and securely tighten the mounting bolts.
