How to Change Valve Cover Gaskets

Reviewed by Jason Shackelford

Last Updated: December 21, 2024 References

Have you ever needed to change your valve cover gasket? Luckily, there is a simple guide that will assist you in doing so.

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Steps

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Some people like to snap a picture before they disconnect the wires and hoses.

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Pull off old gasket and clean the valve cover in degreaser or hot soapy water.^{[3]
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- You could use a wire brush and a 5 gallon (18.9 L) bucket.
^{[4]
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Tighten the bolts that hold the valve cover down to the torque specification^{[5]
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Question

Should the oil be removed when replacing a valve cover gasket?

Community Answer

As long as you let the vehicle sit without running for a hour or s,o all the oil should be at the bottom of the engine or in the pan. However, it's never a bad idea to change the oil after you do this just in case any debris fell into the engine while the work was being done.

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How long do I have to wait after I change the gaskets?

Community Answer

If you only changed a rubber gasket, then you don't need to wait at all. Just don't fly off. If you're using liquid gaskets alone or with rubber gaskets, it should say on the tube. Usually it can takes up to 15 hours for a liquid gasket to turn into rubber (so you can try running the engine after this time), but it may take up to 3 or 4 days to achieve a full seal. It also depends on the ambient temperature and how thick you make the paste (it'll take less time when it's hot outside, and thicker paste will take longer to fully cure).

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How do I change the valve cover gasket on my 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan?

Community Answer

I suggest you hire a mechanic, but you could also go to Autozone to ask for help or use a manual.

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Tips

If these steps don't work, are too difficult, or take up too much time, you could have a professional change your valve cover gasket for you.

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