Tappet cover gaskets - Need help!

[vping]

If you've been follwing my post on the GT dying the reason I started taking things apart was to get to the tappet cover gaskets that have been leaking oil on my exhaust. I have new rubber ones but they seem a little small. Do I need some kind of gasket sealer or glue to keep them in place?

 

[Nunyas]

When I installed new cover gaskets I smeared a thin layer of blue Permatex to the gasket and stuck it to the cover. That helped me ensure the positioning is correct when I put the cover back on.

 

[Adam58]

The rubber gaskets for the 18V are slightly smaller than the cork ones for the 18G motors.They put up a horrible fight!

The cork with a bit of Hylomar work fine for me.

Adam

 

[vping]

These are like rubber bands. I stretched them a bit, put them on & worked fast. Seems to be holding OK.

 

[PAUL161]

The cork gasket sprayed with Permatex Hightac works very well. It is also easy to remove if need be. Unless specifically instructed to install a gasket dry, I use it on all gaskets. I don't like vinyl type gasket sealers on engine components.

 

[vping]

Is one better than the other? Rubber vs. cork?

 

[Steve_S]

Cork seems to age better in the engine bay, which is why they don't make valve cover gaskets in rubber. I usually put my cork side cover gaskets on dry and have no leaks, but if you have an imperfect surface they will definitely let a bit of spray out. A bit of Hylomar sealant on the cork gasket certainly won't hurt anything, but don't use torque to cure the leak or you might make it worse! Remember the cover plates require very little torque, and if too much is administered the cover will bend. It happens easier than people realize and then they can't figure out why they constantly suffer leaks! Another cause of leaks is excessive crankcase pressure caused by a clogged breather and / or PCV valve.