I did a search but came up empty...how hard is it to replace on your own? to me it just sounds like taking off the valve cover and replacing the gasket..or is there more to it...thansk in advance guys!!!

 

My spark plug seals are leaking so I just got a new valve cover gasket set, Fel Pro to be exact. I will be doing this pretty soon... When I get it done, I'll let you know what I did.

I hear you just need to put some gasket sealer on the half moons.

Darrin

 

Ive got the same problem. :pat:

 

grimpy, if its not too much trouble, can you take pics and do a picture intensive write up..hehe....thanks!!!

 

I am new to working on 4Runner motors, so I don't know yet if Toyota used re-useable gasket material like GM uses in it's motors nowadays, but even so, there is absolutely no shame in taking some Permatex RTV sealer and putting a small bead around the valve cover to stop a pesky oil leak.

Just spray some brake cleaner on a rag and clean off any oil on the valve cover and on the head where the valve cover sits so that the RTV will stick good to the metal.

No more leak and no one will know but you.

 

ummm... I just read my Haynes manual and it looks like you will need to remove the intake plenum and disconnect a bunch of stuff... I think I am going to wait on this until someone who knows more about this does a DIY write up...

I can provide you the instructions from Haynes if you want to give it a shot first.

 

Mine was more sipping than leaking. I just tied valve cover bolts –the ones I could get to without removing anything. But do not over do it – those gaskets are very soft and also because you can’t reach all bolts.
It has been at least 8 month no problem so far.

 

grimpy...i was going to wait as well. i have been losing about 1/2 a quart every oil change, 5k intervals. i am going out of town for the holidays and i wouldnt consider myself a decent mechanic, thats why i wont try it. also this is my only car down here and if i cant get it done, then i have no transportation
maybe we'll get lucky and someone will do it SOON!!

 

anyone done a write up yet? i have to replace my valve cover gasket soon, so a write up would be nice