Valve Gasket
Replacing the valve cover gasket on my 05' SXT. First time I've replaced one of these, though I have replaced other various gaskets though I do have a few q's.
1.) Does bolt torque mater with something like this?
2.) Should I use gasket seal with something like this? Why or why not?
1.) Does bolt torque mater with something like this?
2.) Should I use gasket seal with something like this? Why or why not?
The correct answer is yes, bolt torque matters. One of the good habits I picked up working on helicopters for 30 years, is using a torque wrench on almost everything. If you have a torque wrench, I'd say go ahead and use it. If not, I recommend using the smallest ratchet you have, preferably a 1/4" drive. That way, you'll be less likely to over torque those bolts since the torque is only 105 in lbs. Over torquing the bolts can cause a leak and even crack the valve cover.
There should be no reason to use any kind of sealer on the gasket since it's rubber. Just make sure the mating surface on the head is clean, rub a little oil on the gasket and you should be good to go for years. Sealer would just make it a pain to clean if you ever have to take it off again.
You might want to take a good look in your spark plug tubes for any signs of oil. While you have the valve cover off is a good time to replace the spark plug tube seals if necessary.
There should be no reason to use any kind of sealer on the gasket since it's rubber. Just make sure the mating surface on the head is clean, rub a little oil on the gasket and you should be good to go for years. Sealer would just make it a pain to clean if you ever have to take it off again.
You might want to take a good look in your spark plug tubes for any signs of oil. While you have the valve cover off is a good time to replace the spark plug tube seals if necessary.


