Replacing valve cover/intake gaskets...what else while I'm there?

Exodus5 · #1 (**permalink**) 11-21-2010, 12:22 PM

So I've got a leaking valve cover gasket. It's allowing oil to drip onto the manifold and smell/smoke a little. I figure If I replace those I might as well do the intake manifold gaskets since I've got to take that off. What else should I check or replace? I know the Knock sensor is a common issue so I'm thinking I'll do that, but is there anything else I need to pay attention to while I'm going to have the intake off? I figure I'll clean it, at least.

TwoBills · #2 (**permalink**) 11-21-2010, 04:47 PM

If you've got a v6 I'd reseal the gooseneck housing, where it bolts to the block. It's prone to leak and a bugger to seal from scratch.

pennbiker · #3 (**permalink**) 11-22-2010, 10:06 AM

Definitely flush out (or replace) the hose / hard pipe that connects the right side valve cover to the PCV valve. Depending on how much oil is in there, you may want to replace your PCV valve as well.

Exodus5 · #4 (**permalink**) 11-24-2010, 03:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TwoBills

If you've got a v6 I'd reseal the gooseneck housing, where it bolts to the block. It's prone to leak and a bugger to seal from scratch.

It is a V6. I had the timing belt replaced less than a year ago...do they do that when they take the front of the engine off? I'm not really sure what you're referring to as the "gooseneck"...

DannyD22 · #5 (**permalink**) 01-08-2011, 10:52 AM

I'm replacing both valve cover gaskets today, anything other than checking the pcv hose to look out for?

TwoBills · #6 (**permalink**) 01-08-2011, 04:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Exodus5

It is a V6. I had the timing belt replaced less than a year ago...do they do that when they take the front of the engine off? I'm not really sure what you're referring to as the "gooseneck"...

The "gooseneck" is the thermostat housing. You'll want to unbolt this housing, not just the top part that holds the t-stat but the entire housing. Lift it as high as you can get it. About 1/2". You might have to cut the 90 degree bypass hose to gain access, but since you'll have the intake off you should be OK. Probably a good idea to change this hose while you've got it off. Clean and reseal the gooseneck to the block. I used a quality gasket cement. And no, they wouldn't have touched this when replacing the timing belt and water pump.