“Might as well” for when you have your engine out of your car

[LARRY J REESE]

I have the engine out in order to replace the clutch. While I have it out I’m looking for suggestions for the “might as Well” list. I’m going to do the water pump I’m going to do the timing chain adjuster, the valve cover gasket, motor mounts, thermostat and Gasket replace the spring bolts on the exhaust manifold going into the cat. looking for any and all other ideas or suggestions. I’m also wondering when do you go OEM as opposed to cheaper aftermarket.( 03 2wd 5 speed )

Topic

[Todd Smith]

Based on my experiences with the 2.4 here’s what I’d add to your list:
Oil pan gasket, VTEC solenoid and filter gaskets (15815-RAA-A02 &15845-RAA-A01).

[LARRY J REESE]

It was Murphy’s Law and God’s sense of humor that last weekend before finding out that I had to pull the motor I replaced the Vtec solenoid, for the second time, and replace the knock sensor. Although I am wondering while I have the engine out should I pulll the replaced VTEC that I got off of eBay cheap with a genuine Honda OEM part. I will definitely change out the oil pan gasket. Thank you

[Todd Smith]

I don’t think the vtec solenoid is that bad to do in the car. I’d say its really your call. The filter and pan gaskets are much more of a pain with the engine installed.

[Richard Kirshy]

Might look at any hoses and vacuum lines that would be hard to reach with the engine installed.

[Steve Klein]

I would say that any part that is difficult to replace and has the potential to strand you need to be Honda quality. If you have to pull the engine or spend your entire Saturday tearing the car apart to replace a failed part that you saved $50-$100 that is not smart money in my book.

[Author]

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