This is problably a stupid question for most of you . . .but do you guys have any tips for removing a stuborn valve cover. I could not get it off today. I tried hitting it with a rubber mallet and using a block of wood to bang it up with NO luck. I didn't want to pry it up although it was VERY tempting. I'm sure I got all the bolts. . . .well there is only 4 that actually hold the thing on, from what I see.

Any suggestions?

 

ahhh yes, the valve cover.

Take the nuts off, then with a slot-headed screwdriver pry up the washer/grommet things below the nuts, off the studs. Should slide right off then. Be warned you may have to replace the washers though.

 

Have you removed the grommets that are around each of the bolts that stick up through the valve cover (the ones you removed the nuts from)? The grommets can hold the bolts tight enough to make moving the valve cover difficult. The grommets fit very tightly in the valve cover holes, so use pliers and twist them while pulling upward with the pliers.

Have you remove the cover before? There is only a rubber gasket between the cover and the head. It does not need any type of sealant, but if someone applied some the last time the cover was removed you might have a difficult time getting it to turn loose. Try a few thumps with a rubber mallet on the sides of the cover. Should break loose easily (after pulling the grommets out!) .

You should replace the 4 grommets, the 2 rubber cam plugs (one on front of engine, one in back, and the rubber valve cover gasket when you put the valve cover back. Be sure to wipe off the flat surface on the head where the valve cover gasket rests, and don't over-tighten the valve cover nuts.

Good luck.

 

if you cant get the washers off then turn them counterclockwise and they will twist off... remember to always use your brain not muscle, oh and is always your friend

 

do it with a warm/hot motor. should come right off, im surprised the mallet didnt work.

 

damn washer thingy's. . . .now I got it, thanks guys!