RTV on valve cover gaskets?

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Nov 18, 2015 | 03:30 AM

batard

Thread Starter

Rock Crawling

Joined: Oct 2015

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RTV on valve cover gaskets?

Would it be helpful to use a small bead of RTV on the valve cover gaskets? I know this generally isn't advised, but could it help delay the inevitable leaking?

Nov 18, 2015 | 06:22 AM

coors

Pro Wrench

Joined: Jan 2011

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From: Philly

Yup, I use a little dab - works great. Don't over torque when reinstalling the bolts. I think 5 ft/lbs?

Nov 18, 2015 | 06:36 AM

batard

Thread Starter

Rock Crawling

Joined: Oct 2015

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I should use a bead of it all around vs. dabs here and there, right? And yeah, the torque spec on the bolts is super-light.

Nov 18, 2015 | 07:31 AM

drowssap

Baja

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From: Boston Strong

thin coat on the whole gasket

Nov 18, 2015 | 02:10 PM

batard

Thread Starter

Rock Crawling

Joined: Oct 2015

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Thanks! I'm hoping they'll hold up well this time.

Nov 18, 2015 | 03:15 PM

ZGPhoto

Camel Trophy

Joined: Apr 2012

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From: Burlington, VT

You're not supposed to reuse those bolts by the way...may be why it's leaking again. 6lbft

Nov 18, 2015 | 03:25 PM

coors

Pro Wrench

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From: Philly

Quote:

Originally Posted by ZGPhoto

You're not supposed to reuse those bolts by the way...may be why it's leaking again. 6lbft

^^

Whether you reuse existing bolts or install new ones - squeeze a little low strength locktite on threads...

Last edited by coors; Nov 18, 2015 at 03:47 PM.

Nov 18, 2015 | 06:23 PM

jfall

TReK

Joined: Mar 2012

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Permatex Aviation gasket is all I would use on those.
Make sure they are clean and dry.

Only hand tighten the bolts or they snap.

Nov 18, 2015 | 08:39 PM

Alex_M

Camel Trophy

Joined: Aug 2014

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From: Southwestern Virginia

Quote:

Originally Posted by ZGPhoto

You're not supposed to reuse those bolts by the way...may be why it's leaking again. 6lbft

The valve cover bolts are stretch bolts?

Looks like I just figured out why my valve covers leak after my HG job.
How strange, I never would've guessed such a small low torque bolt would be a stretch bolt.