Dropped the PCV valve grommets in valve cover '99 5SFE...need help

[wagoss]

So I went to change the PCV Valve and grommet in my wife's '99 Camry 4 cylinder and the grommet was so brittle that it broke and a piece fell into the valve cover. I'm going to get a new valve cover gasket tomorrow and pull the cover unless someone can tell me that the piece CANNOT make it's way to the head. I've seen some pictures, but can't tell for sure...it looks like the valve cover is boxed around the PCV valve, but I really don't want to take the chance starting the engine without knowing for sure. Luckily, my wife is off work this week, so she doesn't have to go anywhere!

Thanks,
Wayne

[fenixus]

don't worry, it won't make down there into any gears.

here's like the bottom side of 5s-fe valve cover looks like on gen4:


just pull it off, flip it upside down and shake the loose rubber piece out of there

[wagoss]

Thanks!

[wagoss]

Thanks for the quick response!

Do you think it's safe to drive until I can get the new gasket and get the cover off, or should I leave it parked until then?

Thanks again,
Wayne

[fenixus]

with this design of valve cover I'd say it's safe to drive it. I can't see how that loose rubber piece might get into cylinder head ever. there is just 2 tiny holes in the baffle under the PCV valve.

[FishyMan]

Yeah, mines fell apart. I simply broke the parts further and shook it out. I got the new one in w/ the grommet. Everything is fine for me.