valve cover leakage

[nthing]

what procedure to use to successfully install valve covers without leakage.
I have used silicone twice and with super cleaning the castings and cover but always leak.. So we have been installing gaskets and get by. The factory installation never leaks.

[DmaxMaverick]

Welcome to the forums!

Gaskets will leak at some point in the future. Usually after a couple season changes.

Silicone sealer is a hit/miss, with most of the failures related to choice of the sealer (brand, series/color), and application. I've used Permatex "Right Stuff" (grey) for several years now with no failures. I like the cheese-wiz can, but you can also get it in a traditional tube. The can is about 2x the price, but oh-so easy. With both surfaces cleaned very well (I use brake cleaner, let it dry well) and the cover seal surface area true, it should seal. If the bolts have been overtightened at any time previous, the cover needs to be corrected or replaced. Once a uniform, gap-less bead of sealer is on the head, gently place the cover and start the bolts, and tighten evenly. Don't tighten all the way down to tight, as that will leave too little sealer around the bolt hole areas, especially if they are deformed. I leave about 1 mm gap, then torque accordingly the next day. DO NOT clean up the extruded bead of sealer before it's cured (this can actually pull sealer out of the gap). Carefully use a utility knife or razor to cut off any unsightly "globs" or messes once it's fully cured.

[jrsavoie]

The Right Stuff

I used the caulking gun style with a bent end extension on the caulk tube.

http://www.amazon.com/C-R-LAURENCE-AB9351-Angle-Nozzle/dp/B0049S2AGQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1420456291&sr=8-2&keywords=caulk+nozzle

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000HBM6PE/ref=sr_ph?ie=UTF8&qid=1420456332&sr=1&keywords=the+right+stuff

Working temp and storage temp is 40 degrees for a low

Working time is only a couple of minutes, so get everything ready and do a dry fit. Then apply the sealant.

The Right Stuff has a very quick use time. You can run the vehicle as soon as you get everything back together.

http://www.permatex.com/products/our-brands/the-right-stuff