How to Replace a Valve Cover Gasket

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  • Опубліковано 28 вер 2024
  • Popular Mechanics associate auto editor Ben Wojdyla isn't a neatness nut. He just doesn't like to make a big mess with seeping oil that coats his engine and pollutes roads.
    Here, he shows you how to:
    * Remove and organize fasteners
    * Clean off the old gasket
    * Secure the gasket to the valve cover and apply RTV sealant
    * Tighten the bolts properly
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    Who says you can't work on your own car anymore? Follow Popular Mechanics associate auto editor Ben Wojdyla as he leads viewers, step by step, through repairs, upgrades, and troubleshooting tips. Got car questions? Email Ben, and he may answer them on the show.

КОМЕНТАРІ • 186

  • @toxicvaporz
    @toxicvaporz 11 років тому +52

    torque wrench wasn't in "tools you will need"

  • @kokohawk
    @kokohawk 10 років тому +11

    This was a very helpful video. Was very thorough and got straight to the point unlike a series of videos I started to watch from a guy before watching your video. Thank you very much!

  • @gracilism
    @gracilism 7 років тому +47

    Wow, wish my valve covers had that kind of access.

    • @joseluislegarda8378
      @joseluislegarda8378 2 роки тому

      I know what you meant I have a Cadillac seville and to replace the cover gaskets is a pain

  • @Munkenba
    @Munkenba 9 років тому +2

    Brilliantly helpful, I've never replaced anything like this before and suddenly my Lancia Fulvia needs exactly this doing to it (Italians eh?). Even if I don't end up doing the job myself, it's good peace of mind to know that it's not that bad of a problem and my engine won't explode anytime soon.

  • @toomuchtruth
    @toomuchtruth 8 років тому +2

    Hugely helpful, thanks a lot Ben!

  • @ThaDooood
    @ThaDooood 6 років тому +1

    Thanks for the video allowing me to make sure I reduce the chances of missing a step since it's been several years since I've done this. Good refresher. I appreciate your explanation. However, for fun, I also like to paint my valve cover for "bling". I was curious about whether you had some advice or "step-by-step" on your "how-to" so that I can compare with how I usually do it. Just want to see if i can learn something new. Maybe you use a better product or procedure? Would love to see what you have in mind regarding this.

  • @oodragondrew
    @oodragondrew 8 років тому +85

    I wanted to pull my hair out when he used a metal scraper , you're supposed to use a plastic one or you have the possibility to make deep scratches their for having a small leak...

    • @WPXTacoMan477
      @WPXTacoMan477 6 років тому +11

      D Sim oh man.. my hemroid hurts from watching him take a STEEL brush to the ALUMINUM valve cover.. bet that lasts 2 months before it leaks again. Ruined forever

    • @michaelallen2870
      @michaelallen2870 6 років тому +6

      Im glad both of you guys noticed that! Im an Aircraft Hydraulic Mechanic, and one of the first things we always learn is **NEVER USE STEEL WHEN WORKING WITH SEALING SURFACES!!! BRASS ONLY!!**

    • @thebbqprince
      @thebbqprince 5 років тому +1

      @@WPXTacoMan477 is a copper brush acceptable or no?

    • @KingPOF
      @KingPOF 5 років тому +4

      @@thebbqprince I'd say use a brass brush

    • @Motive_Tube
      @Motive_Tube 2 роки тому

      @@WPXTacoMan477 not that he was wasn't demonstrating any improper practices (i.e., using a metal scraper just before), but @6:05 clearly states that the brush is "soft bristled"

  • @bwxmoto
    @bwxmoto 12 років тому +6

    One thing you forgot to mention which can make a difference between leaks or no leaks, success, or failure. I changed the valve cover gasket on a 4cyl car once, did everything right, but forgot one step. Time. After the job, give a few hours of drying time before you crank the engine over. I didn't and where the RTV hadn't set up yet, it leaked instantly. Had to re-do the job. I waited a couple hrs, (actually over-night) and it worked. It was an old ''88 Merc Tracer 1.8 which was a 323 clone.

    • @Kevinh1998
      @Kevinh1998 2 роки тому

      thanks for mentioning that.

  • @hakimgil1238
    @hakimgil1238 9 років тому

    can you tell me please i should use or no need"a camshaft hold down tool" for volvo V70 xc??? i 'll be greatfull to hear from,thanks a lot for teaching

  • @iTzW4Ts0n
    @iTzW4Ts0n 12 років тому

    Could you do a video on how to do a mini service

  • @Rsrey96
    @Rsrey96 10 років тому

    you are a life saver!

  • @thomashvnmusic
    @thomashvnmusic 7 років тому

    Is it the same procedure when the valve cover cracks? I mean if we get another cover from a same but used car will it fit on the engine block with no problems or is it a long shot?

  • @FuhChe
    @FuhChe 10 років тому +6

    Thank you sir. Just saved me 200+ tax at my local mechanic!

    • @suprawack
      @suprawack 6 років тому +1

      Fuh Che $200 to replace a valve cover gasket? Oh No

  • @ucantrefuse03
    @ucantrefuse03 4 роки тому

    I love a good 900

  • @mecaniqueunivers1658
    @mecaniqueunivers1658 7 років тому

    nice video

  • @zkomins
    @zkomins 9 років тому +4

    Do you need to wait for RTV to set before turning on engine?

    • @brainstorm4207
      @brainstorm4207 7 років тому

      Zach Komins not on a valve cover. oil pan...maybe. give it an hour to be safe

    • @SketchyAntix
      @SketchyAntix 6 років тому +1

      Yes. Valve covers get hot, so allow the RTV to sit preferably for 24 hours for a full cure

  • @jw200
    @jw200 11 років тому

    Hi.
    I changed my spark plugs today and found that some of the "holes" of where spark plug goes, had oil in it. Not every hole had oil, just few. Spark plugs themselves were normal and dry.
    So i have to deal with valve cover gasket?
    I noticed that instead of gasket there was like bitumen, some black silicone or something, between the valve cover and engine itself.

  • @ericgonzales6361
    @ericgonzales6361 6 років тому

    Would like some information on a 1988 Isuzu trooper 2

  • @transahusl1
    @transahusl1 9 років тому

    do you have a video on how to change gasket valve cover on a 1999 Honda accord 4 cylinder I'm having trouble putting on the gaskets and the bolt grommets

    • @ironnuka6986
      @ironnuka6986 8 років тому

      +transauno Did you ever figure it out? I have the same car and I'm trying to figure out how hard it's going to be

    • @transahusl1
      @transahusl1 8 років тому

      +Iron Nuka it is hard i put it on but the gask is coming out a little

    • @ironnuka6986
      @ironnuka6986 8 років тому

      transauno Damn, when you took it off did it kinda look like this one in the vid? I think I can get it lined up once its off, I just wanna know what it looks like underneath first. Did you use the tacky stuff?

  • @lofturhjalmarsson295
    @lofturhjalmarsson295 8 років тому +2

    do not clean oil from cover gasket channels with thinner, destroys plastic , it will break when tightening.

    • @lofturhjalmarsson295
      @lofturhjalmarsson295 7 років тому

      bd , dunno, to be safe l would wipe it with dry papers or rags , then maybe soap and water , soap that will not leave oil, dishwashing soap and wash away with water. not sure but seem to remember watching a few videos and guys did not use cleaners just wiped it . may be wrong. just dont think you can get away with using very little thinner , then careless later using more.

  • @johnmcadden3404
    @johnmcadden3404 7 років тому

    Good, but a little slow and the karate kick sounds are annoying after a while

  • @jjf2x870
    @jjf2x870 6 років тому

    them are screws not bolts. FYI

  • @patelnilay4628
    @patelnilay4628 5 років тому

    Mechanic gave me estimate of 1300$ to change it.

  • @nintendogeek138
    @nintendogeek138 8 років тому +3

    he says there easy to do he must not like ford people

    • @BlueCollarFishing360
      @BlueCollarFishing360 6 років тому

      oldgermanstien i have a 86 ranger and all the wires are in the way

  • @say_paul
    @say_paul 7 років тому

    Senen Tamargo more better

  • @evergreens92
    @evergreens92 6 років тому +1

    Im watching this with my girlfriend and we dont trust you.

  • @watdoairaitjeer5953
    @watdoairaitjeer5953 7 років тому

    Dude don't let that go in the headers wtf spraying all around wish you can hear my other allies looking at this at least cover it w a board or note card c'mon

  • @2LimeCrewDosLimones
    @2LimeCrewDosLimones 9 років тому +51

    great Saab story..

  • @Shadowsnshades
    @Shadowsnshades 11 років тому +11

    I've had an oil leak on my 1998 Ford Contour for a while. While replacing the spark plugs, I discovered oil in some of the chambers. After watching your video, you've inspired me to replace the gasket. With a little research, I'm sure I can fix it myself. Not a mechanic, but I'm not afraid to do some of the work myself. Any advice? Great video!

  • @Prjctpatfan2009
    @Prjctpatfan2009 6 років тому +3

    PS. Always test fit the gasket set before you try to put it on. You'll just love life if you get it halfway on only to realize the manufacturer made it 5mm too long. Then you'll have a man made leak from snipping it and having to glob it over with RTV and pray it doesn't leak. Most gasket sets, once you open the box they won't accept it for return. Also, just don't even try to be careful with a metal scraper. Just don't use one. 10 times out of 10, you'll gouge the metal and create more leak areas. It might be hardened aluminum but it's still malleable. Use a plastic scraper or even a plastic spork or plastic knife. Old gaskets usually should fall right off from age

  • @edwardalamo2507
    @edwardalamo2507 2 роки тому +1

    You never use a metal scraper, wood or plastic, only one side gets adhesive the valve cover

  • @henrynguyen6522
    @henrynguyen6522 9 років тому +7

    Just had a question, when you applied the adhesive spray I seen it get into the valve cover is that supposed to get cleaned up and also your engine blocc was not cover up is it serious to be covered or can we leave it open like yours

    • @ricardoperez8879
      @ricardoperez8879 3 роки тому +1

      I was wondering the same. I think this is why some people opt out for glues instead of sprays

  • @chiil034
    @chiil034 5 років тому +1

    Make sure your PCV system is working properly before doing the valve cover gasket. Otherwise, you'll be replacing it again in no time at all.

  • @RafisSabitov
    @RafisSabitov 2 роки тому

    Can you make a video for Subaru opposite engine, how to change in such engine valves cover gaskets at the both sides without moving engine up or down?

  • @auginater4200
    @auginater4200 Рік тому

    My two middle bolts wont go back in after i completely unfastened them unlike you did PLZ help

  • @punk86
    @punk86 11 років тому +1

    I don't understand why they don't tell you to put RTV all the way around it. I thought that would be best, since it could leak from anywhere, rather than just the corners or so.

  • @patricesacul9005
    @patricesacul9005 2 роки тому

    How much does it cost to replace a value cover gasket on a 1988 Dodge Dynasty? Thank you

  • @جاسممحمد-س6ر
    @جاسممحمد-س6ر 5 років тому

    Can you check for me if my car need adding selicon or not my car chovrolet opetra 2011 1.6

  • @Tommy-gk6bh
    @Tommy-gk6bh 3 роки тому +1

    Oh nice, a Saab engine. I’m working this same job on my 9-5, this video is way better than the other “Saab” videos. Nice one guys.

    • @gerard1153
      @gerard1153 2 роки тому

      Too funny Tommy...I have a 9-5 as well! I thought..."wow" what are the odds he chose a Saab for the example car...sweet!

  • @SamyRady
    @SamyRady 8 років тому +1

    hay i need to do this for vauxhall vectra . my english is not good because i am from egypt so can you guys help me and tell me what i should search for valve cover gasket what exactlly .. my car is vauxhall vectra 2006 1.8v i just want to know what part i should buy then i can take it to garage or ask freinds to help me through . :( i can fix electornic but not mechanical problems :D . thanks for the vedio

  • @Soveliss1986
    @Soveliss1986 2 роки тому

    What if you don't have an owner's Manual where is the best place to look for one

  • @jmartinez728
    @jmartinez728 11 років тому +1

    Hey...can you help. I need to know how many pounds of torque for the gasket bolts for a 2004 kia spectra 1.8. Thanks so much!!!

  • @intothegamegen5067
    @intothegamegen5067 5 років тому +1

    I'm no super mechanic, but i know not to wear anything metal around my hand when working on a motor

  • @Craft1man
    @Craft1man 11 років тому +4

    This video was exactly what I was looking for, since I to also own a Saab.

  • @neutralgod300
    @neutralgod300 4 роки тому

    I have 1983 s10, V6 2.8L and how can I replace the inside of Valve Cover or cleaning it? because I sandblast it!I'm afraid it had some sand in it and I don't want to put it back to screw up my engine! what can I do??? thank you

  • @SantiagoMolinaC
    @SantiagoMolinaC 12 років тому +1

    Cool video. Could you do a video on how to check wheel bearings. I have a 2002 impreza, which makes some odd noise coming from the front right wheel, esp. when turning, and i believe it's the bearing. I don't want to take it to the dealer, because they will probably charge me a lot. If it can be diagnosed,i can probably take it to another mechanic.
    Thanks

  • @brettfrantzen7425
    @brettfrantzen7425 2 роки тому

    Used this video for my saab . Thank you ! Though the inner gasket does not need any tack . The outer did not stay in even with the tack product . Maybe we didn’t let it set up ? After a few try’s I think it went ok . Test drove and no leaks !

  • @lexusfan100
    @lexusfan100 12 років тому +1

    hi Ben can you check my youtube home page under " rattling noise" to see if you can figure out that noise. its not the converter or muffler or heat shield loose. thanks

  • @antoniot3770
    @antoniot3770 11 років тому +1

    Excellent videos, you can tell the difference from when a guy thinks he knows it all and tries to show off on youtube from a guy actually trying to help you learn to manage your vehicles up keep. Good stuff Ben. I've got to change to valve cover gasket on my 2001 Mazda tribute V6. got any pointers on my specific vehicle? and this vid helps thanks agian

  • @shortdom107
    @shortdom107 10 років тому

    I fixed tie rods,brakes,rotors,rack and pinion,power steering line twice and power steering pump in my car it's in top shape but this I have a question I decided I'm done putting money into the car
    Is it worth for me to fix the 1,000 job with the oil pan and valve cover gasket or would you just leave it and keep oil in it because Cadillacs leak anyways or would you just fix the valve cover with is about 500 please I can use some help

  • @claraeverett2940
    @claraeverett2940 11 років тому +2

    please just know that you are an absolute angel for these videos

  • @stephenfarris9799
    @stephenfarris9799 10 років тому

    Ben I don't have a manual to know exactly where to put the RTV on my 2009 toyota camry. Would it be ok to just use the RTV around the whole valve cover ? Thank you

  • @Scotty23
    @Scotty23 3 роки тому

    How long should I wait before starting the car, letting it idle, and drive, after replacing the valve cover gaskets ? Immediately? A hour ? A couple hours ? A day ?

  • @krukov100
    @krukov100 4 роки тому

    have you thought of using NOT A METAL SCRAPER ?! Maybe a plastic one

  • @kowasumono
    @kowasumono 9 років тому +1

    Quick question. What happened to this channel? It's soo goood.

  • @williespoonemore3392
    @williespoonemore3392 2 роки тому

    That's a Saab that's not a 95 Honda passport 3.2

  • @monsiuersmartypants3391
    @monsiuersmartypants3391 7 років тому

    HOW about replacing a valve cover gasket on a toyota prius second gen. 2007. ive been doing research to no avail. the valove cover is so far in the bumper its really unacessable. any tips help. there arent any toyota pdfs ive been able to find either.

  • @SakisDafou
    @SakisDafou 10 років тому

    black or red RTV is specific for this job? i cand find new gaskets for my polo 6n and i must put RTV.so which one to buy,black or red?

  • @Casinolife07
    @Casinolife07 8 років тому +1

    the adhesive to make the gasket stick is a real good thing to have, great video thank you!!

  • @jburi01
    @jburi01 12 років тому +1

    Hey Ben, just wanted to say that your vids are really instructive. Keep 'me coming. Btw, would it be possible for you to do a demo/vid on changing the spark plugs on a German car (bummer/mini)?? Thanks.

  • @ticos08
    @ticos08 9 років тому

    Good video good explanation , there are a couple of mechanics here on you tube sometimes they leave you more confused !! because they give information that is irrelevant to the job on the video ! ...

  • @robertoleeva985
    @robertoleeva985 7 років тому

    Why don't you show us how to replace the valve cover gasket on a 2004 Kia Sorento.. lol. Most cars don't have that kind of easy access

  • @brownpaul476
    @brownpaul476 8 років тому

    this is a really helpful video. Im going to be replacing the valve cover gaskets on my 1987 oldsmobile cutlass ciera 2.8L 6 cylinder engine soon, I will also be replacing the transmission gasket as well since its leaking. I don't know much about cars and if you have done some work on this model of car I could use all the tips I can get.

  • @Njennings42
    @Njennings42 8 років тому

    The gasket tack is not necessary is it? I have everything else to do this job, just don't want to foul it up.

  • @acebo986
    @acebo986 10 років тому

    nice video brother, was unaware about the rtv and tack spray, having help me brother replace a value cover gasket on his bmw. definitely will pick some up on this next go around

  • @deadkitsun6667
    @deadkitsun6667 3 роки тому

    Your voice makes me think of David Cross talking calm

  • @jaredj.6915
    @jaredj.6915 7 років тому

    how long do I have to drive the car after replacing? I tried it myself on an Opel Vectra...should I drive it for 10 mins? 1hr? all day?

  • @sanjuan780
    @sanjuan780 6 років тому

    The first word would be the make and model of the car you are working on , all cars are NOT the same!!!

  • @swillia6rider
    @swillia6rider 9 років тому

    Oh, great and mighty Wojdyla, I thank you for showing proper use and judicious application of a torque wrench! Of all the tools I've acquired over the past 4-ish years as I have progressed working on my car, my torque wrenches (1/2" and 3/8" drive) were some of the most affordable $10-20 at Harbor Freight, and they're still among my favorite tools; they give me true confidence that when I've done a job, it's done properly.

  • @STDrepository
    @STDrepository 6 років тому

    Can't you just dump the cover in a bucket of solvent and dissolve the old gasket?

  • @orishaphotos481
    @orishaphotos481 4 роки тому

    Scraping with metal?! And spraying glue?!!!! Nightmare!!!!😮

  • @tyronewalker5764
    @tyronewalker5764 8 років тому +2

    my 2k dodge dakota is in the shop for this very thing. what will i gain after the gasket is replaced? more horse power?

    • @dobisayek
      @dobisayek 8 років тому

      +Tyrone Walker ,
      No added horse power, only girls follow you now!!!

    • @tyronewalker5764
      @tyronewalker5764 8 років тому

      +Sid G. No they don't.

    • @dobisayek
      @dobisayek 8 років тому

      ok, then you won't have oil leak & smell of burnt oil inside, best of all, better compression,which could've positive effect on performance!(Happy Motoring!)

    • @ragingmcqueen
      @ragingmcqueen 7 років тому +2

      With a dodge Dakota the last thing you should worry about is horsepower gain

  • @luisbarajas1800
    @luisbarajas1800 8 років тому

    What order do you use on putting back nut on valve cove 2001vw jetter1.8

  • @Shedlight420
    @Shedlight420 2 роки тому

    Thank you for sharing.

  • @ChrisfromGeorgia
    @ChrisfromGeorgia 5 років тому

    Need to spray some penatrating fluid on that speed wrench.

  • @ivanbrewer1514
    @ivanbrewer1514 6 років тому

    Looking for information to fix leaking valve cover on 409 those rectangles are easy

  • @daveebner7126
    @daveebner7126 3 роки тому

    Thanks What is the torque for the bolts for a 351 Windsor ?

  • @jakoblopez5934
    @jakoblopez5934 3 роки тому

    Eight years laters, Milwaukee is now the speed wrench

  • @mirandasi8302
    @mirandasi8302 5 років тому

    2016 porsche macan valve cover gasket set replacement labor cost is $516.. is that even reasonable for just labor?

  • @cenaboyle
    @cenaboyle 11 років тому +2

    Is the cover known as a rocker cover

  • @ayyashm24
    @ayyashm24 11 років тому

    I have a 2000 Toyota Solara V6, and I have to change both the front and back valve cover gaskets. As I have been told by others, for these 1MZ-FE V6 Toyota engines, the rear valve cover is a pain in the butt to remove b/c of the removal of the intake manifold. I think I can figure it if I look at it. What I need to know is what the torque specification and the bolt pattern for the valve covers are. Do you know where I can find these specs?

  • @Frohmood
    @Frohmood 2 роки тому

    11 pounds = 15 NM

  • @jjlwis
    @jjlwis 11 років тому

    this guy is good! very through too! AND he even used a Torque Wrench! haha

  • @MrKalabama
    @MrKalabama 11 років тому

    So do you have to use that sealant on the head? Or can I just put the new gasket on and bolt it down? btw I have a 1986 Crown Victoria Coupe (if that means anything).

  • @katiekellar2714
    @katiekellar2714 5 років тому

    is this something a newbie mechanic could do without much worry

  • @grzegorz16100
    @grzegorz16100 11 років тому

    But where the round surface is it helps?! No understand.. On straight area - no good, on edges - good?! More lumps and air pockets will form on the edges too.... Don't get the logic behind it:(

  • @semarjitsingh8213
    @semarjitsingh8213 5 років тому

    What is the name of the adhesive to stick gasket on cover, please reply

  • @thegameon3085
    @thegameon3085 7 років тому

    First video I watched of him n great job I subbed and he did a great job

  • @SantiagoMolinaC
    @SantiagoMolinaC 12 років тому

    Hey Ben yes it does wub wub. No clicking. I'm not sure if the noise is different turning left or right. Will check thanks for the reply!

  • @awesomeasfuck100
    @awesomeasfuck100 7 років тому

    I have oil on my spark plug in the number two cylinder, and its been like that the last couple of times that Iv'e changed them, so could this be a probable cause of this?

    • @aaronarevalo6512
      @aaronarevalo6512 4 роки тому

      yes that is usually the main cause of oil on spark plugs

  • @kaixu1026
    @kaixu1026 10 років тому

    This is a very helpful video. Will this process be similar if I have a different type of car?

  • @Trixtah
    @Trixtah 11 років тому

    Less is more. Too much gunk will actually interfere with the nice seal you're trying to make with the four surfaces (two sides of the gasket, the engine head and the cover). The RTV is being used here for the rounded surfaces. Putting it where there is a nice straight surface is a waste, and introduces more possibility of lumps/air pockets.

  • @louiserivard9165
    @louiserivard9165 9 років тому

    how do you replace a down stream o2 sensor 2004 Toyota Tacoma 4x4

  • @buddapest2001
    @buddapest2001 11 років тому

    i have a 2003 pontiac aztek and i am trying to replace the valve cover gasket. but i am having trouble even getting to it... plz help me

  • @bmwm30072007
    @bmwm30072007 12 років тому

    Some spray glue did went inside the valve cover when you spray. Spray glue will get into the engine oil when engine gets running!. I am not sure how much damage can do to the engine.

  • @michaellewis2139
    @michaellewis2139 3 роки тому

    Good video.

  • @danswrath147
    @danswrath147 9 років тому

    Well i consulted the Haynes Manuel and did everything the book said and my engine is leaking like a water fountain i don't know what to do.

  • @leaturnbull7616
    @leaturnbull7616 3 роки тому

    Antioch

  • @Omarsito318
    @Omarsito318 12 років тому

    Do you need silicon glue on every engine? Mine is a hyundai tiburon and is leaking pretty bad?

  • @henrirummo
    @henrirummo 10 років тому

    thank you for a very helpful video! just a quick question : when replacing the valve cover, is there a threat that some of the rtv silicone might be pressurised into the chamber which in turn is bad for the engine? cheers!