LexBrett

Dear Friends,

I'm in the process of changing out a leaking valve cover for my 2002 lexus sc430. I bought an aftermarket Felpro valve cover gasket, as well as spark plug gaskets and grommets for the 10mm bolts. It would really help me out a great deal if you could advise me on the following:

1. Is a liquid gasket(e.g., Permatex) advisable/necessary in addition the the Felpro valve cover and spark plug gaskets?

2. On the drivers side, there are numerous connectors that need to be removed to access the valve cover. I was able to remove all but one connection, as to lift the relay to remove the valve cover.

But it is still really tight on there. Do I just pull out the valve cover through the maze of wires from the relay?

Or do I necessarily need to unplug everything toward the front of the car connecting to the relay? Also, there is one connection to the front which I cannot disconnect. It seems like it goes down under the car . Maybe I need to get under the car to disconnect?

4. What are the grommets used for? I assume these are placed between the valve cover and 10mm bolts to avoid leakage?

5. How do I know which way is "up" for the spark plug gaskets?

6. Do you have any other tips you could offer on changing the valve cover gasket?

Thank you very much in advance!!

kuWuPt

iTrader: (13)

Not sure if you have seen this post but might help you out.
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc-...ml#post8876021

check post#54
you'll see no residue of permatex or any sealant on the valve cover or on the head..
grommets- u are correct.. to avoid leaks
spark plug gaskets refer to the pics on post#54
tips-don't over think it

LexBrett

Thanks Buddy. I actually posted that to a separate forum where lexus technicians advise. I guess it also ended up on the sc430 forum. Nonetheless thanks for the references

kjcole

Are the grommets you refer to the ones that are pressed into the valve cover (retained by small metal ears)?

LexBrett

Not really sure, they came with the felpro kit. They looks like they fit the 10mm valve cover bolts.

Here is what the set looks like:


http://www.mypartsgarage.com/felpro-...-vs50592r.html

kjcole

Hmm, those little grommets look like they are meant for the bolts that retain the valve cover.

I have to do this same job soon, so I'll be looking at what comes off my car. Does Lexus put anything under those retaining bolts??