Q&A for How to Change Valve Cover Gaskets

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Should the oil be removed when replacing a valve cover gasket?

Community Answer

As long as you let the vehicle sit without running for a hour or s,o all the oil should be at the bottom of the engine or in the pan. However, it's never a bad idea to change the oil after you do this just in case any debris fell into the engine while the work was being done.

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Question

How long do I have to wait after I change the gaskets?

Community Answer

If you only changed a rubber gasket, then you don't need to wait at all. Just don't fly off. If you're using liquid gaskets alone or with rubber gaskets, it should say on the tube. Usually it can takes up to 15 hours for a liquid gasket to turn into rubber (so you can try running the engine after this time), but it may take up to 3 or 4 days to achieve a full seal. It also depends on the ambient temperature and how thick you make the paste (it'll take less time when it's hot outside, and thicker paste will take longer to fully cure).

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Question

How do I change the valve cover gasket on my 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan?

Community Answer

I suggest you hire a mechanic, but you could also go to Autozone to ask for help or use a manual.

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Question

How do I replace the valve cover gasket in a car?

Community Answer

Get a torque wrench, 10mm deep socket (standard size) and the replacement gasket. Clear all the cables and ignition coils you can out of the way, then undo the valve cover bolt going in a criss-cross pattern, working from the outside to the inside. Once you have all the bolts out, shake it gently and the valve cover should lift up. Once it's out, clear the mating surfaces properly or you might get an oil leak in the future. Next place to gasket into the gap (or onto the valve cover surface if you're using a liquid gasket). Carefully put it straight down onto the engine. Do up the bolts in the opposite way from the center out. Torque to around 10Nm (see specs) or go by feel, but do not over-tighten.

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Question

How long does it take to replace my valve cover gasket?

Community Answer

Anywhere from 1-3 hours, depending on how damaged it is.

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How can I tell if my head gasket is going out?

Community Answer

Noticeable power loss when going up hills, valve knocking when you floor it, and smoke from oil.

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How long does it take to change valve cover gaskets?

Community Answer

A few hours. Be sure to cover the valve while you are cleaning the cover so nothing drops in.

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What is the problem when there is oil on the spark plugs in a 2001 Holden Rodeo twin cab 3.2 truck?

Community Answer

Piston blow by, worn out rings and/or valve guide problems. Do a compression test and see if you have any low cylinders first.

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