DIY: Valve Covers

Valve covers, often called rocker arm covers, cover the cylinder heads of an engine. A gasket is fitted to the valve cover to keep the oil inside the heads. Valve covers are usually made from aluminum and bend easily, so when removing them, never pry them with a screwdriver or other tool. If a valve cover leaks, the oil drips down the block, and if it's on the side of the block, the oil gets on the exhaust. Over time, with buildup, the oil could ignite and start a fire in the engine compartment.

Tape and marker
Set of sockets
Rubber mallet
Plastic scraper
Rags
RTV silicone

Instructions

- 1
  Look at your engine before starting any valve cover job. If there are wires and vacuum hoses attached to the valve covers, you must remove them. Some vehicles have spark plug wires in the center of the valve covers. Mark all wires and hoses that impede removal using the tape and marker.
- 2
  Remove the PCV valve and any other wires or hoses. Unbolt the valve cover's retaining bolts or nuts, using the appropriate socket. Remove the valve cover. If the valve cover won't come off, double check to ensure that you removed all the bolt or nuts. If so, tap it gently with the rubber mallet to break the seal.
- 3
  Clean the gasket-mating surfaces on the valve covers and the heads, using the plastic scraper and rags. Never use a metal scraper, as you could damage the gasket-mating surface.
- 4
  Apply a thin smear of RTV silicone to the valve cover's gasket-mating surface. Fit the gasket onto the valve cover. Allow it to set for two to three minutes so the gasket doesn't fall off. Fit the valve cover onto the head.
- 5
  Install the retaining bolts and screw them in by hand as far as they will go. Tighten the bolts firmly but do not over tighten them, as you will squish the gasket and cause a leak. Reattach any wires or hoses that were removed in previous steps.

How to Install a Craftsman Line Trimmer

What Can You Fill a Lawn Roller With?

Lawn Tools