103M Engine Cam Cover
 

I am back together with my engine to the point of putting the cam cover back on. Can anyone tell me if you need to use any type of sealant on the preformed gasket for the cover. I wasn't sure if you can just install it dry!! Anyone been there done that? I just didn't want a leaker, and have to redo it. Any feedback would be appreciated.
Thnx, Rebe :)

No sealant, torque to 9 NM.

Actually, it's a bit more complicated that that.

Seal and slot must be prefectly clean. Install new cam seal in cover, sealing lip IN. Use the installation tool if you can find one so you don't nip any rubber off the new lip seal, else it will leak. Ofterwise, just be very carefull and lubricate seal with a bit of engine oil first.

Apply sealant to head where the cover will fit up, use the correct stuff ONLY (Locktite 5900?). Apply a dot to each end of the u-shaped bottom seal.

Wipe a small amount of synthetic grease on the bottom ONLY of the front cover so that it will slip over the seal. None on the back, you want the sealant to stick nicely there.

Place cover on head, engage the guide pins and slide on, holding pressure DOWN on the seal, don't allow the cover to pivot by pushing "straight" in on the guide pins. It actually tilts some if you do this, and tends to roll the seal over -- instant leak.

When on, before tightening the bolts, use a mirror and small flashilight and look at the seal through the slot between top cover and lower cover. Seal must be prefect. If suspicious, or has obvious spots where it rolled over, remove cover and try again.

Again, you must be careful that the camshaft seal doesn't get nipped at the same time.

It will eventually leak again anyway, but why hasten that problem?

Peter

I think we need to clear up exactly what Rebe is referring to by cam cover. It seems myarmar has interpreted it to mean the part typically called the valve cover, while psfred thinks Rebe means the item traditionally referred to as the upper timing cover.

Can you clear this up for us, Rebe?

I was referring to the cover over the valve train. Typically the valve cover. I should have been more explicit. I appreciate the help from everyone!!

On the cover you don't need any sealant. Go easy on the torque though, only about 10nm........

Gilly

Right, I'm confused (as per usual these days).

Valve cover gasket goes on bone dry, head too.

Peter