noob: RTV neccisary on new valve cover gasket?

[my3awds]

I'm almost done replacing all the gaskets on the ej22t, and I noticed that the valve cover is only held on by 3 10mm bolts. Coming from the 4g63t engine, I find it hard to believe that these 3 10mm bolts will seal the cover down enough to prevent any leaks even with a new gasket. Is it neccisary to add rtv? I'd really like to not use it if possible.

[Splinter]

I replaced my gaskets as follows:

1. Unbolted covers
2. Pulled old gaskets
3. Scrubbed down the outside of the cover (cosmetic, optional)
4. Installed new gasket
5. Bolted on with new bushing/washer dealies
6. Beer


No leaks in the month+ since I did this.

[vrg3]

I lubricate the gaskets and grommets with motor oil. As long as you evenly tighten the three bolts to the right torque spec, they'll seal.

Keep in mind that the torque spec is tiny -- like 40 in-lbs.

[my3awds]

Hey thanks. The heads are freshly rebuilt and the valve covers were steam cleaned, so I'll take your advice and just leave them be.

[Project_Legacy]

geez. ive done it WITH RTV and without. on my N/A with RTV always worked fine. but when i started workin on the turbo motor, geez the damn thing leaks a lil with RTV and without.

[vrg3]

You probably have a nicked sealing surface somewhere. Have you inspected them closely?

[Project_Legacy]

nah i havent inspected them TOO closely but when i was replacing the gasket last time, we cleaned it up real good and i didnt see any problems. the head was fully rebuilt so it cant be that. so it probably is just the valve cover. ill just have to take a look at it some other time. not too worried about it.