I noticed today that the valve cover bolt pocket near the oil fill tube was full of oil and the bolt is tight. Is it common for oil to come up through there? I didn't notice it two weeks ago.

Everything else on the right side is dry but I have noticed a few damp spots by the bolts on the left valve cover. The 5.4 has just over 100k on it.

 

the valve cover gaskets are worn. its very common.

 

Seems kind of odd tat there was no sign two weeks ago.

Noticed that NAPA has FelPro FPG VS50481R gaskets but they do not come with grommets. Do I need these?

 

FelPro # for grommets ES71189 Yes I would replace them ,no more than they cost why do the job twice.
Could it be that oil just got spilled from last time you added or changed oil . Then just pooled there by fill tube?

 

RTV both sides too. Don't just rely on the gasket. Coat the cover side then install the gasket and let it cure a bit. Spread an even coat on the head side then install the cover and run the bolts down till they bump. Let it cure for as little while then go ahead and run the bolts/screws down all the way. This kinda helps seal them better.

 

So I do need the grommets and are they the same as the 4.6? You would think that they would come with the cover gaskets.

That’s a negative on spilling since that was over a thousand miles ago. I was under the hood two weekends ago because I was changing my ball joints and had to disconnect the ABS leads. I always give things a look over when I have the hood up also.

I’m not to keen on using RTV but I’ll think about it. Anybody else have thoughts on using RTV?

 

Does this look like the grommets are integral to the gasket? Where are the grommets supposed to go?

 

I never use RTV to make a gasket unless I absolutely have to, but I generally put a thin coat on stuff to make it stick a bit better.

 

So, any thoughts on the gaskets above and if they need the grommets?

Anybody know if the Romeo/Windsor thing comes into play on the valve covers or is that just a 4.6 thing?