Prevent oil leaks around the valve cover with a gasket that fits your engine block exactly
The valve cover gasket seals the connection between the cylinder head and the valve cover. Under this cover are parts of the valve train that are lubricated with oil while the engine is running. When the gasket ages, gets damaged, or is not installed correctly, engine oil can leak out along the edge of the valve cover.
A valve cover gasket is often replaced when the valve cover is removed for inspection or adjustment of the valve clearance. It is also wise to check the seal if there are visible oil traces, a greasy cylinder head, or a smell of burnt oil. Oil can run along the engine block or reach hot components.
The shape of the gasket is fully matched to the cylinder head, bolt positions, and passages of the specific engine block. A valve cover gasket is therefore not a universal part. Even within the same model range, different engine blocks or cylinder head versions may be used.
Over time, a gasket can harden, lose its elasticity, or deform locally. A gasket can also stick to the sealing surface during disassembly and get damaged. Reusing it is not advisable because the seal may no longer fit evenly after installation.
Check not only the outer edge of the valve cover. Some engines also use separate seals around spark plug holes, bolts, or other passages. Always check whether the product contains a single gasket or a complete set with additional seals.
Select the gasket based on the exact engine brand, model, year, and engine type. Where possible, also compare the original part number. A similar engine displacement does not automatically mean the same cylinder head or valve cover design is used.
Before ordering, check whether you need one gasket or multiple. Engines with two separate cylinder heads may have a separate valve cover and gasket for each cylinder.
Carefully remove old gasket residues and clean the sealing surfaces without damaging the aluminum. Check the valve cover for deformation and place the new gasket without twisting into the designated groove.
Use liquid gasket only where prescribed by the engine manufacturer. Too much sealant can be pushed inside and enter the oil system. Tighten the mounting bolts in the specified order and to the correct torque. Over-tightening can deform the valve cover and cause new leaks.
