Valve Cover: Service and Repair

Valve Cover and Gasket

EFI 3.8L:

Removal

1. Disconnect ignition wires from spark plugs.

2. Remove ignition wire separators from valve cover retaining stud bolts.

3. Remove upper intake manifold.

4. If LH valve cover is being removed, proceed with the following steps:

a. Remove oil filler cap.

b. Remove crankcase ventilation tube.



5. If RH valve cover is being removed, proceed with the following steps:

a. Partially drain cooling system.

b. Remove positive crankcase ventilation valve (PCV valve).

c. Remove oil filler pipe.

d. Remove heater hose and position aside.

e. Disconnect fuel lines.



6. Remove valve cover retaining bolts and stud bolts, valve cover and valve cover gasket.


Installation

1. Position a new valve cover gasket into groove on valve cover.

NOTE: Lightly oil bolt and stud threads before installation. Using solvent, clean cylinder head and valve cover sealing surfaces to remove all gasket material and dirt.


2. Position valve cover on the cylinder head and install retaining bolts. Note location of ignition wire routing clip stud bolts. Tighten retaining bolts to 9-12 N-m (7-9 lb-ft).

3. Install upper intake manifold.

4. If LH valve cover is being installed, proceed with the following steps:

a. Install oil filler cap.

b. Install crankcase ventilation tube.



5. If RH valve cover is being installed, perform the following:

a. Install positive crankcase ventilation valve.

b. Reconnect fuel lines.

c. Reconnect heater hose.

d. Install oil filler pipe.

e. Install ignition wire separators.

f. Connect ignition wires to spark plugs.

g. Refill cooling system.

h. Start engine and check for oil and coolant leaks.