Valve cover questions

[luvmyeagle]

I have replced valve cover gaskets twice, once with felt and the second with rubber.  Not having any luck with either.  I even replaced valve cover.  I was told that I don't need a gasket at all just silicone engine and valve cover.  Is this correct?  Also how do I get around the A/C line that goes over valve cover?  I don't want to unhook if possible as A/C works great.  Any suggestions appreciated.

[mo.eagles]

Do you have the plastic v.c. or aluminum one ? I'm not trying to be ignorant but are you sure it's the v.c. leaking? I used High Tack to hold gasket in place and did not over torque the bolts. My AC does not work so the line was not an issue for me .

[luvmyeagle]

I think it is the gaskets but I'm wondering do I need a gasket?  I was told no but I think I need one. The a/c works great so I do not want to unhook it, can I go to a metal cover without driliing or tapping it?

[AMC1]

If it's leaking with a gasket why would you think it won't without one. Maybe you're thinking if using a liquid cement etc. Both plastic & aluminum covers require a gasket but I suppose you could try something else. I have both plastic & aluminum in different cars. Neither leak. The aluminum I had to tap the (5) side holes but not the front & rear. I didn't have to drill any of them.

[4x4jollyr]

AMC1- "The aluminum I had to tap the (5) side holes but not the front & rear. I didn't have to drill any of them."

Were the front and rear holes already there, or did you go without? I think I'm reading in other posts only 5 fasteners are needed- 3 on drivers, 2 on passenger side. My cylinder head w plastic cover only has these 5 holes (2 not tapped). I'd have to drill the firewall (rear) side(ain't happening w/o pulling head) and the front hole.

[AMC1]

had a problem here & don't know if this went through partially. You should be able to use all 7 holes. Tap the sides to 5/16-18 but check on this. I found 3 holes on the passenger side & 2 On Drivers. Make sure all 7 holes in the head line up with the cover. Mine didn't. I had to slightly enlarge a couple of holes in the cover but it was no big deal. Start at the rear & accept that hole & work forward. One important thing however is to try & place a puddy knife between the torque down bolts & the cover. I could which meant I torque down the bolts but not the cover. I simply added small washers.

[4x4jollyr]

OK, thanks for the help!

[AMC1]

Actually when enlargening the holes you want to slot them - not increase the inside diameter with a larger drill bit.