Need Help with Valve Cover Gasket...oil leak

[ajd32186]

Does anyone know of a good shop in michigan who could replace the valve cover gasket for me?

If not does any one have any advice for me if i replace it myself?

How long do you think it will take me to replace the valve cover gasket, spark plugs and spark plug wires and where is the best place to get parts?

 

[JRA2000TL]

You can do it yourself. I'd recommend removing the hood for easier access to the back valve cover. You'll need a 5mm hex socket to remove the valve cover bolts. Be careful when removing/installing them because they strip easy. I have a couple that are stripped on mine that are just kind of sitting in there.

The parts can be bought, including the Motorcraft plugs, from RockAuto. Unless your wires are shot, you can probably save money and not replace them if they don't look bad. Also, RCM and SHOSource have the gaskets, plugs, and other 60k maintenance items. You might as well buy a feeler gauge and check your valve clearances while you're in there. I'm sure you won't find many, if any, that are out. If they are out of adjustment, you'll need a shim tool kit with replacement shims. If they're all in spec. you're good to go.

If you're not mechanically inclined, plan on taking a Saturday to do it. You may not need that long though. I'm slow and everything I start on my car turns into more of an ordeal due to stuck bolts, breaking things, etc.

 

[NEp8ntballer]

remove the intake(of course) and then put some padding down on the front valve cover so you can have your knees on the front valve cover and still be sort of comfortable. should make it easier to do the rear. the front should be pretty simple since it is easy to access.

 

[newshofan]

If you're not mechanically inclined, plan on taking a Saturday to do it. You may not need that long though. I'm slow and everything I start on my car turns into more of an ordeal due to stuck bolts, breaking things, etc.

i agree hear..everytime i go to fix something on mine i breaksomething best to take your time..

 

[rubydist]

you do not need to remove the hood - there is no reason to over-complicate the job. I have never removed the hood for any of the maintenance that I do, and you can get to stuff just fine.

it should take several hours to do this, but since it is the first time for you, the 'all day Saturday' should be a very good estimate.

 

[luigisho]

Agreed. And first time through get some baggies, pen/marker, and/or masking tape. Label things as you disconnect or remove them to make reassembly easier and accurate.

 

[NWGRN94MTX]

Make a experienced SHO friend in your area. "That has been there and done that." Buy them a six pack and pizza. Then have them "coach" you through it and lend you a hand if you need it.

We have valve cover gasket sets in stock and can ship as soon as you order.

Valve cover gasket set link

 

[sdpatt]

I have a detailed procedure for this operation in addition to gapping the valves if you want to see what it takes (tools, effort). PM me with an email address if you want a pdf copy.