Gasket Sealant

[MisterCinders]

Just put a new valve cover gasket on, but I am finding a couple very slight oil leaks. I plan to inspect the valve cover and see what's going on, but I doubt the new gasket itself has any damage.

Should I use a liquid sealant in addition to the gasket? I have a tube of this stuff:

http://www.bikebandit.com/threebond-liquid-gasket-1194

It seems more of a gasket replacement than a sealer. It also sucks to use, is goopy, messy, etc.

What other products might work to tighten up that seal? A coat of grease? Something else?

TIA

[BassCliff]

Hi,

On my OEM valve cover gasket I used only WD40 or axle grease. Even without using a sealer they are hard to scrape off the next time you adjust the valves. When you torque it down, start in the middle and work your way out. Don't over-torque, you can split the gasket or warp the cover.

Now I use Real Gaskets silicone rubber (reusable) gaskets on the valve cover and breather.


Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[Coady]

I wouldn't use any sealer either. I'd check both mating surfaces of the head and valve cover are completely smooth and clear of old gasket residue and then I smear a new gasket with grease (or WD40).

You may find the leaks will stop over time too. I wouldn't sweat a valve cover leak too much.

[MisterCinders]

The drips hit the exhaust head and smoke a bit. Want to tighten up the seal to make sure that is the only cause of the smoke. Thanks.

[bwringer]

Sure it's not dripping from the tach cable fitting?

I've also seen the forward cam chain guide pop up a bit and push the gasket out of the way. This is usually a pretty nasty leak, though.

Be very careful with further tightening -- those bolts are made from cheddar cheese...