Introduction:
Valve cover oil leakage problem, really old car owners can not get around a “small hurdle”. Whether it is a gasoline car or diesel car, oil leakage is like a small problem, not timely treatment will quietly “fermentation”, from a little oil stains into a big problem. Don't worry, this article will take you to understand all kinds of oil leakage “crime” and ways to cope with it, to help you easily deal with this “small test on the road to growth of car owners”!
What engine problems can a leaking valve cover cause?
Valve cover oil leakage problems can have different effects on gasoline and diesel vehicles.
On gasoline vehicles, oil leaks can lead to oil buildup around the spark plugs, which then affects the ignition performance and leads to poor engine ignition, ultimately triggering a loss of power and increased fuel consumption.
On diesel vehicles, oil leakage can lead to oil accumulation on the engine surface, resulting in slower heat dissipation and accelerated deterioration of gaskets and other components.
Whether it's a gasoline or diesel car, a long period of time (usually means more than three months) regardless of the valve cover oil leakage problem will lead to carbon buildup inside the engine, reducing engine efficiency.
If it has reached very serious consequences, the repair cost reaches five times the normal maintenance cost or more.
What happens when the valve cover leaks oil?
Valve cover leaking oil, in fact, this is a very common problem, when your truck has been driven for many kilometers, it will appear that the valve cover gasket is aging, when you encounter this problem, you can just replace a new 6.7 Cummins valve cover.
However, there are still a large portion of diy enthusiasts who still have oil leaks after installation. In fact, a big reason is improper installation. Does it appear that the fittings are not aligned? Are the bolts not tightened? Is there a test after installation?
Is there an oil leak on the valve cover that needs immediate attention?
Minor leaks usually do not affect engine operation and can be observed for a while. However, if the oil leakage is obvious, it is recommended to replace the valve cover gasket immediately to avoid increasing oil leakage and causing internal engine damage.
How often are valve cover gaskets replaced?
Driving conditions and engine operation determine how often valve cover gaskets should be replaced. Generally, it is recommended that valve cover gaskets be inspected and replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, especially on vehicles that are subjected to high temperatures, high humidity, or heavy use.
Valve cover gasket material selection: rubber or silicone?
Valve cover gaskets are available in two main materials: rubber and silicone.
Rubber gaskets are affordable and easy to install, but are relatively less durable and suitable for general use.
Silicone gaskets, on the other hand, have better heat and corrosion resistance and perform well in high-temperature environments, making them suitable for more demanding engine systems.
How long does it take to replace the valve cover gasket?
The process of replacing the valve cover gasket basically takes about 1-2 hours. However, there are lawsuits that vary from model to model and engine structure.
Some vehicles have valve covers that are located close to the interior of the car or have a lot of wiring around them, which may increase the replacement time. Overall the installation is easy and short.
What is the approximate cost of a valve cover gasket replacement?
Depending on the situation, if you do the repair yourself, you will only need to pay for materials, which can range from $20-$50, whereas if you have it replaced at a repair store, you may need to pay an additional fee of about $100-$300 for labor. For skilled car owners, consider replacing it yourself to save money.
Do I need to use a sealant when replacing my valve cover?
When installing new valve cover gaskets, it is recommended to use a small amount of sealant in critical areas to ensure a better seal. Especially in the corners of the valve cover or in the gasket joints, the sealant is effective in preventing leakage. It should be noted that using too much sealant may result in an uneven seal and caution should be exercised.
What is the correct torque for the valve cover bolts?
The correct torque for the valve cover bolts is very important; too tight can cause gasket distortion and too loose can cause oil leaks. The recommended torque for the bolts is between 6 and 8 pound-feet (depending on the model).
Conclusion
The valve cover oil leakage problem may seem small, but it may make your wallet “thin” if delayed for a long time. Therefore, in the face of this “old problem”, it may be worthwhile to find and deal with it as early as possible. Remember, small problems are not treated, sooner or later become “oil tiger”! Be a smart car owner - mastering some simple maintenance skills will not only make your engine work smoothly, but also make your driving journey less troublesome and more joyful.
