Mr Ohms

I plan on removing the valve cover off of my d16y7 motor to resurface it because right now it doesn't look so great. I would like to know if I can take the valve cover off and later put it back on without replacing the gasket. In other words, do I have to or should I replace the gasket if I take off the valve cover? It just looks really bad and I hate the look of a dirty engine bay. I plan on using purple power in a few days. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

LSVTAK_EK

Have a look at the gasket while it's off, if it's in good shape then re-use it! Put it in a big ziploc bag do it doesn't dry out on ya! It's one of those things tho, you already have the cover off and a gasket kit only costs a few bucks so might as well change it out!

EG FTW

iTrader: (4)

You should always replace the head gasket when removing the valve cover.

MRGRIM

iTrader: (1)

You what ?? head gasket ??

you can reuse the cover gasket i have many times
it wont dry out even if left for months as ive done it and no leaks
Its made of nitrile rubber not cork

simply pull the gasket off "dont stretch it"
wash the oil n sludge off
leave flat untill you need it again

I use a small amount of sealant at the cam shaft corners
just to hold it in the valve cover before i put it back on

Mr Ohms

Factory gasket is probably recommended right?

MRGRIM

iTrader: (1)

yeah factory
it will fit right

Mr Ohms

Thanks a bunch.

EG FTW

iTrader: (4)

Thats the way i was taught. So dont freak out. Ive heard (from a honda tech) that once you torque it down it shouldnt be messed with. and re-using the gasket can cause sealing issues with the cover. I just play it safe and replace it.

apexi_rsx

It can if it's old. Just use rtv at the cam corners. If the gasket still is soft you will be fine. I've reused the valve cover gasket a few times with no leaks. Just torque it down enough you don't snap the studs off. A autozone felpro gasket will work fine you do not have to buy one from a stealership just to get an OEM gasket.

Mr Ohms

Yeah I was just doing an oil change today and after taking a close look at the valve cover I could see that the gasket underneath was sticking out on all corners. I'm thinking the previous owner might have used the wrong one or the gasket is just stretched out and needs to be replaced. I'll have a better idea of what to do once I take the cover off.