Valve Cover Gaskets

Do you smell burnt oil from the engine bay, or is the valve cover damp along the edge? Then the valve cover gasket may be leaking. In this category we have gaskets and gasket sets for the valve cover on car and motorcycle engines, for repairs, rebuilds and engine projects alike.

What does a valve cover gasket do?

The gasket seals between the valve cover and the cylinder head, keeping the oil around the camshaft and rocker arms inside the engine. Over time, heat and age can make the material hard so it cracks or shrinks. If oil seeps onto the exhaust manifold, it can cause smoke and odour. Some items are complete sets rather than a single gasket, e.g. sets for the Dodge 5.7/6.1L Hemi intended for one cylinder head, so check the contents in the product description.

How to choose the right gasket

• Engine and model year: The gasket must match the shape of the cover exactly, e.g. Honda L15B7 or Harley-Davidson Shovelhead.
• Material: E.g. moulded rubber, as in the Cometic Gaskets gasket for the Honda L15B7. The right material depends on the engine and cover.
• Thickness: Some gaskets are specified with a particular thickness, e.g. .059 or .010 inch. This can matter if the cover or valvetrain has been modified.
• Quantity: A V engine has two valve covers, so consider whether you need one gasket or two.

When fitting, the sealing surfaces must be completely clean and free of old gasket residue, and the bolts tightened evenly according to the manufacturer's instructions. If the engine is coming apart anyway, complete engine gasket sets can be an advantage, and you will also find head gaskets and oil pan gaskets. Brands in the category include Fel-Pro, Cometic Gasket, Vertex Pistons, QuadBoss and Moroso.

Frequently asked questions

Can I reuse the old valve cover gasket?

It is typically not recommended. A used gasket is often compressed flat and hardened by heat, so it can be difficult to get it to seal again. Whether a moulded rubber gasket can be reused depends on the manufacturer's instructions.

Why is the engine still leaking after replacing the gasket?

It can be due to dirt or gasket residue on the sealing surface, bolts tightened unevenly or too hard, or a warped cover. The oil can also come from another leak further down and run down over the engine.

Should I use sealant with the gasket?

It depends on the engine and gasket. Some designs require a small amount of silicone at the joints on the cylinder head, while others must be fitted dry. Follow the fitting instructions for the specific part number.