I need to replace my HLA's soon, but I'm not sure if I want to pull the valve cover by removing the TB from the upper or the upper from the lower. What's the usual way of doing this?
just to replace lash adjusters? It depends on the tool you're gonna use to compress valvesprings. If it's something that won't have a handle sticking out the side then you can just take the TB off.
If there's any chance you need some clearance then leave it on and remove the intake plenum. The rear 2 bolts have studs on them to hold a plate that holds the top of the dipstick. This is a royal PITA to remove. It's easier if you take an 8mm socket and find the screw underneath that plate that holds the dipstick, otherwise you can't get it out of the way.
Got it all apart and back together this evening. My valve spring compressor of choice is also known as an 11/16" box end wrench. As of when I started it up a couple minutes ago, it still ticked....I'm hoping the new HLA's are still just building oil pressure and will stop ticking. Otherwise, I'm gonna be seriously pissed.