Ok, i'm gonna re-paint my valve cover. when i remove the cover do i have to replace the gasket? i just replaced the gasket like 3k ago so its still new.

 

If the gasket is that new you should be able to reuse it as long as it isn't damaged. I reused one that was on for 100,000mi and it sealed. If you’re worried about leaks you could always coat the gasket with a thin coat of high temperature silicone.

 

RTV silicone FTW lol. i just used it on a leaking radiator hose. so far its worked pretty well with the heat