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Okay what's the trick for these valve cover gaskets? I replaced them, immediately they leak, I had a shop replace them (he's willing to warranty work and parts) and they still leak. What's the trick?
If you have an FE and no oil restrictors you could get up to a quart of oil backed up in either head....leading to valve cover leaks 'cause the return oil flow can't keep up with the input.
As with any engine, over-tightening the VC bolts will lead to a distortion of the cover....and leaks.
If the valve covers aren't flat around the bolt holes....you' have a leak.
1. Hammer n dolly the flanges flat.
2. Wipe flanges clean to remove oil. I use acetone.
3. Run a very very thin bead of RTV on flange and around bolt holes. Let sit for 10 minutes before applying gasket. Let cure with the bolts in the holes to index the gasket.
4. Install and snug. Let the gasket do the sealing.. RechecK and snug after a few hot cycles.