I've got the gasket and I've got a leak. However, in the course of another thread it was suggested that I might not need to check it. It is definitely seeping at the gaskets and there was a slight hint of oil in my plugs (especially #6). However, it hasn't been enough that it has dripped to the floor and I haven't noticed any appreciable usage in the month/~500 miles I've had it.

Any leak bothers me so my first instict is to change but then part of me says if it's working well don't fiddle with it.

So, change the gasket or leave well enough alone until it becomes more of a problem?


TIA,
Tony

 

Anybody? I'm going to try and tackle this tomorrow I hope.

Any comments on how long it generally takes?

 

I would say any leaking oil from your valve cover gasket is reason for a replacement. Unless you like oil on your engine and burning oil in you cabin/ lungs.

Its an easy job. Just do it and never look back.

 

Not difficult to change, just don't over tighten and crush the new gasket.

Clean out the various breather hoses while you are at it.

 

It's done. Ended up changing them. When I loosened to re-torque I lifted up the cover a bit to take a look. The gasket was cracked in quite a few placed. Changed it out along with the half moons (with black rtv) and the plug ring gaskets. Looks good so far. Going to go for a little drive in a bit to check to see if I got them down good. The spec (as it turns out after checking the manual myself) is only about 10 Newton meters. Did the back and forth and around tightening to make sure it was equally seated.