I got all the parts and gaskets for replacing my old valve cover gaskets, spark plugs & gaskets, Knock sensors, Hose & Harness, bolts, washers, high temp wire loom etc. I will start my project tomorrow and let you know step by step. Here is pictures of my parts and some tools.

 

I will replace my knock sensors also. So if you do follow the DIY for coolant replacement by LEXMEX. But if you don't wants to replace knock sensors, hose or harness you do not need to empty the coolant. Here is the link: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...olant-diy.html
First I will replace the front valve cover gasket, Sparks plugs & gaskets and will give you details with pictures tomorrow.
Then I will follow knock sensors DIY by Salim: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...ement-diy.html

 

Look the knock sensor DIY.

As you take out the intake you will get to a point where the water jacket will be broken and you dont want coolant enter the fuel-air channels.

I have made comments in there about coolant and recommend draining the coolant.

Salim

 

Let us know if you ever get to the point, like I did, where you conclude that it would have been better to remove the engine and then combine your project with a change of timing belt and inspection (and perhaps change) of the rear main seal.

PS: I don't see any FIPG.

 

Yes Salim. I will empty the coolant before remove the IMA, Air Intake & Rear valve cover gasket. Thanks.

 

Thanks Jab. I will let you know how far done. But I replaced my Rear Main Seal, Timing belt, pully, water pump 2 years ago. Here is the FIPG.

 

You bought all new bolts and all! Best of luck to you. It would take me a few days to complete something like this as I am a perfectionist and would be taking my time.

 

Think long and hard before trying to replace the spark plug tube seals.

 

Did you replace the spark plugs seal?

 

It is better idea to empty the coolant first. Look the red arrow is upper radiator hose and there is one bolt of front valve cover under it. It will be very easy if the hose removed.

 

Did I replace the spark plug tube seals? After 210K miles mine were fused to the valve cover and at the same time very brittle. I spent hours on one and decided to leave the rest alone. I'm still in the midst of the project. I may buy a new rear valve cover in order to get the newer better mounting for the PCV valve which will have the added benefit of new spark plug tube seals..

 

I could not start my work today but will go on very soon.

 

Only advice I have is try to do in stages.

Any thing that does not need to be combined should be done by itself and tested at the end before proceeding to the next task.

This keeps debug to the minimum.

Salim

 

I'm thinking of buying the new and improved rear valve cover now that I have the old one out. Any suggestions as to where to go for best price? TIA.

 

I went to the dealer parts department and asked about the 'new' rear valve cover for my 1999 RX300. I asked whether p/n 11201-0A060 (suggested by another poster) would (1) fit my vehicle, (2) incorporate the 'improved' PCV valve fitting, and (3) include the spark plug tube seals pre-installed. I was assured that the answer is 'yes' to all three questions. However, if I go to one of the on-line parts vendors and enter my VIN for the p/n it says 'will not fit your vehicle.' Can anyone confirm one way or the other? TIA.