Reusing valve cover gaskets

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Feb 27, 2009 | 11:06 AM

Intercooler2

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From: North East, MD

Reusing valve cover gaskets

Doing valve springs this weekend so was wondering if the gaskets will come off in one piece and can be reused? Or should I just buy some just in case?

Feb 27, 2009 | 11:08 AM

1sick'98WS6

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From: Phoenix AZ

They are reusable, and will most likely come off in one piece unless someone damaged them before.

Feb 27, 2009 | 11:09 AM

vettenuts

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From: Little Rhody

They are usually OK unless a lot of miles so they have dried out. Worse case would be small leak that would require replacement later.

Feb 27, 2009 | 11:09 AM

99blancoSS

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From: ST Helens, OR

They are rubber and more like an o-ring and should be re-usable. They sit in a groove, you'll see. Just dont pull them out of the groove

Feb 27, 2009 | 11:12 AM

Intercooler2

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From: North East, MD

Thanks for the info! I can't wait to get the springs and rockers on. Should pick up a little.

Feb 27, 2009 | 08:31 PM

rumblebox

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i've had mine off several times without replacing. still no leaks.

Feb 27, 2009 | 11:15 PM

nemss1

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From: Edmond, OK

had my valve covers off to paint and even pulled the gasket out of the groove. i made sure to rub the gasket down with oil as i was removing the gasket. no probs here

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Mar 1, 2009 | 02:32 AM

eallanboggs

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From: New Orleans

If they don't pop out of the groove while they are off you can just put the covers back without changing them. If they pop out you can't get them back in because they swell up. It's best to have a set on hand just in case.