I've read many threads on the secondary tensioners. I'll be doing this later in the week. Some mention the need for gasket sealer. I've purchased oem from SNG Barrett gaskets, I've never liked using sealer since the gasket is supposed to seal and if you take things apart in the future you have extra 'gunk'. Some used it with after market gaskets that probably weren't proper thickness, others mentioned a dab here or there. Where exactly would this be required. Obviously a good clean mating surface is required first....

 

I used the Lincoln LS Gaskets (same as Jaguar OEM) with No Sealer, with No Leaks. Sealer should NOT be Necessary.

 

A dab of RTV is recommended at the points that the front cover mates with the heads. Otherwise, nothing is needed. The gasket is more like a big 'O' ring than a gasket. There are brass 'stand-offs' in the bolt holes that are intended to prevent deforming the gasket caused by over tightening. Said over-tightening will crush the stand-offs, deform the gasket, crack the plastic covers and leave oil leaks that can only be repaired by replacing the covers.

I have had my covers off twice without replacing the gaskets and have no leaks but others have not been so lucky.

 

Verified via JTIS, but wanted real world experience. Thanks

 

You got it, a little dab will do ya. Mine had the dab of RTV from the factory so I did the same. No leaks with OEM gasket. Trust your torque wrench, as my Japanese friend says "mouse tight, not elephant tight"

 

Thanks folks,

If I suspect a plug o ring is leaking could I sort this with rtv?

Also anyone know offhand what the torque values should be for the cover?

Thanks,
Mike

 

Camshaft cover 9-11 Nm JTIS has a torque spec search
I would replace the o-rings along with the gasket.

 

The plug rings normally come in the valve cover gasket set.