I don't remember if this was posted previously or not. If it's repeating someone else's similar post, sorry.

As anyone with an SS that wanted to remove the cam cover noticed, there is a braided line with quick-disconnects going from the cover to the turbo. Unfortunately, no tool fits in the available area to disconnect the line. So it's basically a one-time connect fitting at each end. Some have cut it off and replaced it with a hose and clamps.

I recently had to remove the cam cover on my son's SS to replace the timing chain. What I did was to remove the fitting from the turbo that the line quick-connects to. There is one screw holding it down. Once you remove the screw you gently work it out of the mating hole. There is one O-ring sealing it to the turbo. When you are done, put a very small amount of oil on the O-ring to make it easier to put back. This saves you from having to replace the tube.

This picture shows the tube hooked up at the turbo (notice the one bolt holding it ):


This picture shows the tube pulled out of the turbo:


Steve

 

I believe that’s the end to remove, the other end would be destroyed trying to remove it.

See post #2


https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/hhr-...uestion-35754/


And for more reading

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/2-0l...tch-can-54350/


I think there’s one end you use a 3/8 fuel line fitting tool to slide off the pvc hose.

 

At the cam cover end, there is virtually no gap for a disconnect tool to work.

At the turbo end there is some room, but the pipe takes a bend right at the end of the tube which makes it very difficult to get a tool in there.

Steve

 

Thanks for the ‘splain. This has been discussed on Facebook too. It IS possible to remove the other end too, using a piece of zip tie wrapped around the tube and crammed in to release the stainless clip inside the fitting. I’ve done it. It’s also possible to destroy the clip by forcing the fitting off. I’ve done that too. Replacement obtained at NAPA.

(It’s really annoying that they didn’t make the tube 3/4” longer to allow the removal tool to fit.)

So removing either end is a mild PITA.

I think I posted pics somewhere. Not here apparently, so must be on FB. Will try to find.

 

I cut the stainless one off and used 11/32" PCV line with clamps, perfect fit.

 

After messing with this braided line between valve cover and turbo for quite a while I finally determined it was not necessary to disconnect it to completely remove the valve cover when replacing the timing chain. After disconnecting the fuel line that goes over the valve cover and also the plastic turbo tube that also goes over the valve cover, there was sufficient room and play in that braided line to lift the valve cover up and over to the right (driver side) to allow sufficient access to the cam phasers to replace the timing chain.