Valve cover spreader bar

[domano 68]

Originally Posted by Tx Firefighter

If you're using the FelPro composite gaskets that are rubber with steel cores, absolutely do not put any sealer on them anywhere. They are meant to be installed dry and they work perfectly that way. Tighten them down. You'll feel it when the rubber flattens against the core.

Trust me here. I run those gaskets on every single engine in all my stuff. This set here is now on its third engine. The last engine I had them in I put ten years of near daily drivng on. When I rebuilt it, I just dropped the gaskets right back in place for another usage. Not a drop of sealant ever. Not a leak or seep or drip ever.

I am using the Felpro rubber with metal insert gasket with the aftermarket chrome GMPP valve covers, no RTV. These are the ones that are seaping in the back corners. Are these types of gaskets supposed to have more torque applied to get the rubber to flatten out? Maybe that is what I am doing wrong?