So I was changing the spark plugs and I snapped a bolt off putting the wire harness back on. The bolt is flush and I can't get it out. Then stupid me did the same thing but putting the spark plugs coil back on. It didn't snap, but it was cross threaded and I didn't notice. Me very stoopid.

Anyway, I have a tap and die set and I was going to take the valve cover off so I can bring it down to my workshop and get the broken bolts out and re-thread them properly. Is there anything special about taking the valve cover off? Do I need a new gasket after I take it off? Should I be worried about damaging anything underneath?

 

nope just need to remove all the stuff in its way then cover up the inside of the head while the cover is off

 

On reinstall, you might want to put a dab of good fresh silicone
on the corners...especially the bottom ones (near the exhaust manifolds).

 

Cool - you guys rock. What type of Silicone? I have some Permatex Grey. What do you use?

 

I think any would do, but the Ultra Grey says.. Designed for high torque applications (predominantly Japanese designs) requiring a unique RTV gasket. Exceeds manufacturers performance requirements. Low odor, non-corrosive. Outstanding oil resistance. Guaranteed not to leak. Temperature range -75F to 625F intermittent; resists auto and shop fluids and vibration.
I have the orange on mine, but I don't think it really matters.
The rear bottom corner is the one to make sure you get, as it is not
very accessible after the install. Mine leaked there once so just
a little extra care in that spot. Make sure everything is clean on the head
before replacing (NO OIL RESIDUE).

 

I would add a new valve cover gasket and add RTV Gasket sealant. Use the one for rubber. Also clean the area by spraying a rag with brake or parts cleaner and wipe the all the area you going to apply the gasket.

 

Anyone have pictures or instruction on how to do this?? i was replacing my sparkplugs today and noticed one of my sparkplugs on the driver side had oil all over it. What exactly would i need to install??? rings and gasket seal correct? Dealership said its one whole piece...is that true? Thanks everyone.

 

The gasket is built into the valve cover so the valve cover needs to be replaced.

 

HELP HELP!! ok i loosened all the bolts and **** from the valve cover....how do i get the damn thing out??? Looks like on only thing in its way is the center huge metal piece....do i have to remove that?? cuz the dame thing wont slide out..PLEASE HELP IF ANYONE KNOWZ HOW TO REMOVE IT OR HAS INSTRUCTIONS OR PICTURES OF ONE DONE.

 

Removing The Driver Side Cover.

 

Those stupid brackets suck. Unbolt it if it's bolted down, which side are you working on?

 

The damn cover is loose just wont slide out....i'll take a pic right now.

 

There's a breather hose on the backside of the driverside valve cover. Stupid brackets might get in the way. The front section of the valve cover has a little bit of RTV on it.

 

 

what else needs to come out??? How do i slide it out..?? Seems like it gets stuck pulling up on top of the metal portion.