hurrikane

Hello, probably a stupid question from non-car guy, but I'm curious. My car is Lexus RX330 2005. My mechanic replaced spark plugs about 3 months ago, I think car mileage was ~140K at that time. Today, mechanic said that I need to replace Valve Cover Gasket, and the mileage is ~145K. He said that when he'd been replacing spark plugs gaskets had been ok. So, my question is could the work on spark plugs lead to failed valve cover gasket (front one). I have warranty on the work, but not sure I can prove that changing spark plugs could lead to a new problem with the gasket. Sorry in advance if my question doesn't make any sense.

HtownBlue

It's of course possible but unlikely. Unless he removed the valve covers to replace the spark plugs (unlikely) it is not a causative effect.

Lexuswiz

iTrader: (1)

Very unlikely, but age is a huge factor. If you're still on the original gaskets, consider changing it for peace of mind. OEM only, I've had bad luck with a few aftermarket brands.

TriniLex

Just bought Felpro brand gaskets? bad luck with those?
also whats the torque specs on the valve cover bolts and the intake plenum bolts?
thanks

Lexuswiz

iTrader: (1)

Nope, you're safe. Felpro and Mahle? have been fine with me. Decided to save a few bucks and buying eBay no name generics for my 4 cylinders, bad bad idea.

I usually hand tighten bolts then check back, always too lazy to look for specific values. Bad I know but my hood is open every week so I see leaks immediately. But I recall ~17ft-lb for the valve cover and ~12-15ft-lb depending on which screws for the intake plenum as their are different sized screws.

TriniLex

Also lexus stated i have to replace gasket maker around Half moons?

JoeInHNL

The torque spec for the valve cover bolts are 8 Nm

The torque spec for the intake plenum is 28 Nm . The spec is the same for the nuts (2) and the allen head bolts (4).

DennisMik

8 Nm = 71 in lb
28 Nm - 21 ft lb