I've been through timing cover HELL! lol.... So, let's just say I'm biased on the "REPLACE FOR 48$!" END, lol. But, since it sounds like one of the bolt channels, nothing more(???), that go through the AC bracket.....well, then you MIGHT be ok. Know where mine was leaking? OUT OF THE AC BRACKET MOUNTING HOLES! lol. The guy used too much sealant on mine, so that's another story. Anyway, I've replaced a CAM(w/out pulling the head) and now the timing cover(w/out pulling the head).... not a drop, and I'm sure it can work out that way 99% of the time, granting one doesn't tweak the HG, etc. I figured, "If it leaks, oh well, then I have to pull the HG. If it doesn't, ...GREAT, I didn't have to remove the freakin HG!" lol. I do understand why some say "Nah, do it by the book, don't mess around", ...it's no doubt the safest route.... but I'm limited on time, etc., etc., ..so I didn't really have a choice at the time.

Here's a link to my build, a permalink to where I really started to tear into it.......

https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f199...l#post51649952

Best wishes. I mean, I could have put back my other cover, ....but I spend the 48$ and went for it from Engnbldr..... after all that drama already, I just wasn't willing to drive with "what if" pins and needles on a 1500 Mile Wilderness Trek, ya know? lol.