dmorgan, you could try using Channel Lock pliers to gently remove the half-moon gaskets. When installing the new half-moon gaskets recommend using a light film of sealant between the top of the half-moon gasket and the valve cove gasket. I say this because I just removed the valve cover gasket on a 1995 E320 engine, and noticed the indie had applied some sealant in that location when he replaced the valve cover gasket.

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Fred Hoelzle