Replacing the valve cover gaskets 380SL

[capeboater]

I want to replace the valve cover gaskets on my 1985 380SL, I am trying to clarify if gasket sealer is used or not. Some say just torque the bolts to the correct level others say to use a sealer/glue? I want to do this when I change the wires and plugs but want to make sure I complete the job correctly.

Thanks for any insights.

[Strife]

No sealer or glue is needed. But careful alignment and torquing is. Use new crush washers, they are cheap. uneven or over tightening will definitely cause a leak.

[meltedpanda]

avoid sealer, never designed to be used, ditto strife

[capeboater]

Thanks for the responses, I will be completing this in the next week or two. I noticed the transmission pan gasket is leaking a bit too. Any advice on changing that?

[meltedpanda]

keep it clean, but other than that pretty straight forward , drain pan, drain torque converter, replace filter, replace gasket , put pan back on, KEEP IT CLEAN, don't feel like you need to wipe off the innards of the tranny with a rag, bad idea, retorque to 5-6 ft pounds

[Strife]

The torque setting on the trans and valve covers are so low that the usual 1/2" or even 3/8" wrench is a very bad idea - get a 1/4" torque wrench. And be very careful with the settings conversions (I've found one conversion calc on the internet that is wrong, always check two of them).