CLK Operator

I was wondering if anyone has a step by step guid in replacing the valve cover gaskets on the 4.3 V8. My passenger side is leaking oil onto the exhaust manifold.

charliev68

try my best from memory:
things needed-
torque wrench, star bits, right bank breather hose(optional), RTV black sealant, valve cover gasket, lots of clean rags.

1. remove engine cover
2. unplug spark plug wires from ignition coils (remember the order)
3. use star bit and remove the center screws from center of coils
4. remove coils from valve cover.
5. pry off the breather hose from valve cover(replace hose if needed, i would)
6. remove the screws from the valve cover in a cross patern in two stages
7. remove the valve cover, gently tap it with a rubber mallet IF needed
8. clean valve cover
9. very gently pry off the baffle (mini cover on top)
10. get some black RTV sealant from auto parts store and re seal the baffle and let it dry for a few hours.
11. put a very thin layer of oil on the valve cover gasket and install in reverse order
12. install the valve cover screws in cross patern in two stages, i suggest hand tight then 7.5 ft lbs maybe 8 for a good seal.

GL.

CLK Operator

Thanks alot.

deyainrdy4ds

know its and old thread, but how do you know when you need to replace the valve covers/baffle seals...

CLK Operator

I didn't replace my baffle seals as they seemed solid and all is well.

deyainrdy4ds

o ok ...well whyd u changed ur valve cover seal

CLK Operator

Because the valve cover gasket was bad and leaking oil onto the exhaust manifold. The breather seemed to be nicely sealed so I didn't touch it.

deyainrdy4ds

oo ok....at my last diagnosis at the stealer..this was on my list of parts that needed to be replaced...i just didnt know why...ill take my engine cover off and will have to take a look

CLK Operator

If it's leaking you should see visible smoke as well as smell it when the oil hits the hot manifold.

deyainrdy4ds

i havent had those symptoms..not to my knowledge anyway..maybe theyre just tryna pull a fast one on me? fkerssss lol

wowmb123

How much should it cost to replace the valve cover gaskets?