Valve cover gasket question

[Roadcuda]

I'll be changing the gaskets on the valve covers soon. Since it's been some time since I have done this job, I don't remember if I just put the new gaskets on dry, or do I need to use any silicone, or liquid gasket? Thanks

 

[joewhite440]

I'll be changing the gaskets on the valve covers soon. Since it's been some time since I have done this job, I don't remember if I just put the new gaskets on dry, or do I need to use any silicone, or liquid gasket? Thanks

If you are using stock covers and bolts. I always use Fel Pro Gaskets and I put them on dry.

 

[ACME A12]

...and don't over-tighten...valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets have been my sworn enemies for 30+ years...I always want to get both of them Magilla Gorilla tight and it just isn't required...occaisionally I get it right... :loco:

:jester:

 

[Roadcuda]

...and don't over-tighten...valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets have been my sworn enemies for 30+ years...I always want to get both of them Magilla Gorilla tight and it just isn't required...occaisionally I get it right... :loco:

:jester:

Thanks guys. I know what you mean Ray. When I had my '57 Plymouth I had that same problem with the valve covers. I always seemed to over tighten them so that they would still leak!

 

[69hemibeep]

I put a little sticky stuff in a few places on the cover so the gasket doesn't slip. Permatex high tack or weather strip adhesive.

 

[dobie]

I use Fel Pro cork type gaskets and Permatex. No leaks so far.

 

[joewhite440]

...and don't over-tighten...valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets have been my sworn enemies for 30+ years...I always want to get both of them Magilla Gorilla tight and it just isn't required...occaisionally I get it right... :loco:

:jester:

Thanks guys. I know what you mean Ray. When I had my '57 Plymouth I had that same problem with the valve covers. I always seemed to over tighten them so that they would still leak!

I use my 1/4 inch drive ratchet with a 6 inch extension. One hand works very well and does not bend pans. Try it it has worked for me for years.

 

[droptop]

I always use the hi heat gaskets for the hp motors, even more so if you have stock manifolds. With the manifold next to the valve cover it will cook the cork gaskets in about 100 miles on the interstate on a hot summer day. Had to change valve cover gaskets in the hotel parking lot at the nats one year.

 

[V269]

I've used cork and rubber gaskets and find cork to does the trick for me. Like everyone said, dry and do not over tighten.

 

[mcmopar]

I've used cork and rubber gaskets and find cork to does the trick for me. Like everyone said, dry and do not over tighten.

Same here. I also place RTV silicone between the valve cover and gasket but leave the head/gasket mating surface dry. With the cast aluminum MP valve covers I've rarely. if ever, had a leak. As for oil pan gaskets - I use the heavy duty paper style. 2 of them, actually, because of the windage tray. I make a windage tray/RTV/silicone gasket out of the whole mess and slap it up before the silicone sets up. Works like a charm.
If there is anything I despise from my car its an oil leak.

 

[Hoosier Bird]

I've used cork and rubber gaskets and find cork to does the trick for me. Like everyone said, dry and do not over tighten.

Same here. I also place RTV silicone between the valve cover and gasket but leave the head/gasket mating surface dry. With the cast aluminum MP valve covers I've rarely. if ever, had a leak. As for oil pan gaskets - I use the heavy duty paper style. 2 of them, actually, because of the windage tray. I make a windage tray/RTV/silicone gasket out of the whole mess and slap it up before the silicone sets up. Works like a charm.
If there is anything I despise from my car its an oil leak.

Me too.........