Ok to just tighten a leaky valve cover gasket a little?

TurnAround · #1 01-02-2015, 06:54 PM

I own three M54 engines, but for some reason the X5's valve cover gasket like to go out. I've had three of them over its 117k life. My indi mechanic has done the work each time. Both replacements only seem to last 30k or so, and then oil leaks start to show up. Always past labor and parts warranty with them... ugghh.

So, back in the day. You know, the Triumph Spitfire, Chevy Nova, VW GTI days, we would just snug down the valve cover bolts a bit, between actual needed valve cover gasket changes, because, we all knew that the gasket would settle in some (shrink a bit) and need snugging down, and then all was fine... for a really long time.

So, what's the rule with these engines today? Ok to re-torque them to spec as a first step? Or, when my mechanic says its leaking, it will always mean a new gasket?

Any other pit falls to this I'm not seeing? (Like, its all linked in with CCV too, so don't mess with it).

THanks!

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itscoo2pyopants · #2 01-02-2015, 07:05 PM

does you mechanic use RTV sealant? 30k miles seems excessive. I dont think you need to retorque them if they were tightened correctly the first time.

have you tried changing it yourself? its a pretty easy DIY on m54 engines.

David.X5 · #3 01-02-2015, 07:11 PM

I just had to replace a fel-pro valve cover gasket on my MINI (1/2 scale X5 :-) ). It split in less than 1000 miles. If you aren't using OEM rubber, I would try that, too.

P.s. I don't see a problem snugging it up as long as you watch the torque values, but if the rubber has split, it won't help.

itscoo2pyopants · #4 01-02-2015, 08:51 PM

Be careful over tightening, it doesn't take much to break those bolts

dkl · #5 01-02-2015, 09:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by itscoo2pyopants

Be careful over tightening, it doesn't take much to break those bolts

Or worst yet, crack the valve cover since it's plastic on the M54

OP...did you (or your mechanic) check to see if the valve cover itself is warped? Warping is a possibility on a plastic valve cover.

Kristophe · #6 01-02-2015, 10:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by itscoo2pyopants

Be careful over tightening, it doesn't take much to break those bolts

When I changed my VC gasket I broke a bolt off; they're only 6 foot lbs. I would replace the gasket and use gasket sealer in the critical areas.

Kristophe · #7 01-02-2015, 10:18 PM

Oh and don't forget to also change the 15 or so sealing washers also!

BMW BOB · #8 01-03-2015, 12:58 PM

The gaskets get hard and brittle. Tightening won't help you. Warm the engine up before you remove the cover. Then the gasket is softened and comes right off. Otherwise it comes off in pieces and is a mess to deal with.