All 12 bolts are loosened and it appears that the cam cover is pretty much baked on or has too much sealant on the gasket. I'm replacing the cam cover because of a broken breather fitting so damage to the cover is not my primary concern, damaging the cylinder head or ending up with debris dropping into the engine is. Anyone had the same problem and found a way to remove the cover? I have a heat gun if you feel that that would help.

Thanks,

 

Use a rubber mallet to tap the cover and a plastic wedge between the cover and head surface.

 

Thanks, I'll give it a try.

 

Hopefully you've also removed the two bolts in the centre of the cover between the spark plug wells.

 

That's the problem, there are 14 not 12.

 

That would seem to be my problem. The cover has 5 bolt holes on each side and two on the front. The cam cover gasket looks identical. Those last two bolts (nuts?) must be well hidden (at least I couldn't find them). Are there two more without corresponding bolt holes in the cover or ?

 

Take a look at this post by aode06:
https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...1/#post1099831

 

Thanks Michael and RJ; I somehow missed bolts 1 and 2 which I quickly found (duh) after it was pointed out to me. The bolt tightening sequence is invaluable and greatly appreciated. Been awhile since I worked on my Jag and forgot how much fun it is (if you have a universal joint as a wrist). The driver's side awaits, which I understand is even more difficult!