Repair 7

How to Fix a Leaking Chevy Valve Cover

Repairing a leaking valve cover is a straightforward procedure. If the valve cover on your Chevy engine is leaking, the most likely cause is the gasket between the head and the valve cover. The quickest way to fix this problem is to replace the gasket with a new one. There are sealers on the market that can help, but they are not a replacement for a properly formed gasket installed correctly on the engine. New gaskets are available at most auto parts stores or through a car dealer.

Instructions

1

Locate the valve cover on the top of the head or heads on the engine. Remove the bolts around the edges of the valve cover with a socket and ratchet, then remove the cover from the head. Set the valve cover aside.

2

Place a rag in the head, around its edges, to keep any debris from falling inside the head, then use a gasket scraper and remove any gasket material or sealer from the mounting surface of the head. Work all the way around the head, making sure you do not leave anything on the surface, or the new gasket will not seal properly.

3

Turn the valve cover over, with the inside facing up, and clean the gasket mounting surface with the gasket scraper; again, make sure there is nothing left on the surface. Using a clean rag and some brake cleaner, wipe down the inside of the valve cover and allow it to dry.

4

Lay the new gasket out on a clean piece of cardboard and lightly spray the gasket with gasket tack. Let it sit for about five minutes, then lay the gasket into the valve cover, tack-side down. Place the valve cover back on the cylinder head, then install the retaining bolts.

5

Tighten the bolts with a socket and ratchet. Do not over-tighten the bolts, or you will crush the gasket and cause it to leak. Repeat the process on the opposite valve cover if you are working on a six- or eight-cylinder engine.