Hi all. Just pulled my valve cover for the second time because of leaks. The first time I replaced the gasket, a week ago, it was kind of strange - as the valve cover bolts just seemed to bottom out, instead of snug down uniformly. Of course, my valve cover was leaking like crazy on my exhaust manifold.

I'm thinking the only logical reason for this are the black, rubber grommets (gaskets) for each valve cover bolt hole. The bolt goes through a steel sleeve (with a shoulder) which goes through this rubber grommet - which the whole assembly goes through the hole in the valve cover and screws into the head.

The part # on these grommets is: 104 016 03 64 BRUSS 21.8 x 10.1

Mine seem very hard and compressed. And I think is part of my problem. Should I just build these up with sealant, to make them 'thicker'? Dont' want to do that - but need to do something.

I'd appreciate any advice you may be able to offer. Thanks much.