[greddytypeS]

So for a while now around my spark plugs I have been leaking oil out of and around one of the nuts that connect to what I think is called the "valve gasket cover"..
Im new to this stuff..

I noticed today after tightening the farthest screw that is located to the bottom right of the first plug that a small crack had formed. I think I overtightened it like an idiot. Anyway, oil is now significantly leaking out of the crack at the moment, so I was wondering if I can just seal the crack with some sort of sealer? I don't know what else to do..

Here is a picture of the crack. Sorry about the poor quality.

 

[98GSTSPY]

I have a crack in my valve cover. Its not super large and I was able to take some RTV and seal it up right on top. It doesnt look the greatest when you look at it but, it fixed the problem for the most part. It leaks every now and again ( a few small drips). From what I have read the best way to fix it is pull the valve cover and weld the crack. Clean up the weld so it dosnt contact anything and your done. I just bought a new Valve cover from a local guy for $10.00 and when I get a chance I will replace it. HTH

 

[DSM Bud]

Do yourself a favor and just get a used one. It'll save you a head ache in the future but if u must reuse the cracked on just go and get the JB Weld. This stuff will do the trick without a problem. Let it rest for 6 days though. Good Luck!

 

[greddytypeS]

How exactly do I replace the valve cover?

 

[greddytypeS]

And DSM BUD thanks dude..

 

[DSM Bud]

Oh and dont get a Felpro Gasket, get a Victor Reins I think that's what it's called from auto zone ( if thats where ur going to get one if ur getting OEM then nvm). Its really good quality and should prevent leaks. Once the VC bolts starts to get tight just give it another quarter turn and it'll be ok. Theres no pressure thats ganna cause the oil to shoot out which means you wont need alot of trq to get it done.

 

[98GSTSPY]

How exactly do I replace the valve cover?

To remove the valve cover there are just a few bolts(less then 20) remove all of them on the inside near the spark plugs & the 6 or 8 bolts on the outside of the cover. Pull off all of the hoses (2 or 3). Buy a new gasket replace the gasket and spark plug gaskets (very important -imo) put it on and put all the blots back on and your done. Could be done in less then 1 hr if that.

 

[greddytypeS]

Thanks for the help guys.. I really think I am just going to seal it for now so I can just drive around until I buy the VC.

 

[DSM Bud]

Do it man, but I cant stress enough the importance of the wait period for the JB Weld to dry because the extreme temps plus the heated oil could disolve the formula so just wait on it.

It worked on my friends boiler that get over 600* and above so im sure it will work for you just fine but he waited 7 days.

 

[SchroederGSX]

The VC bolts need 30 lbs of torque but like they said before just get it tight and a quarter to a half turn is sufficient

 

[Sean485]

30 in-lb maybe, 30 ft-lbs would put the bolt THRU the vc. they dont need to be very tight if you have a good gasket and the lock washers are in place.

 

[HOT97ECLIPSEGSX]

I was looking at the spec in my buddy's Chiltons last night and it said the spec for 95-99 turbo was 2-3 ft-lbs. I believe there is an in-lb spec in the OEM FSM.

 

[greddytypeS]

When I was tightening the bolt near the crack I heard a crunch sound. I hope that was just the cracked VC and not the VC gasket underneath.. So the bolts should only be tightened 2-3 lbs?

 

[HOT97ECLIPSEGSX]

If you're literally cracking the VC gasket then you need a new one. Eventually, over time, the VC gasket will harden and become brittle and crack/break. And yes, the spec according to the Chiltons was 2-3 ft-lbs.

 

[NTDeamon]

Theres a product from JB weld called something like JB quick seal it comes in like a roll and you cut it then knead it together like dough to activate it. Its made for cracks in pipes hoses and automotive applications such as your valve cover. I applied it to mine and it has not leaked a bit in two and a half years . Good luck bro.