AndyK

Yeah, the hardest bolt to get to (under those fuel tubes) is the one that is rounded, although it's not totally round. Maybe I can tap the 6mm bit into the nut, then get some traction. If not, what are my options? I guess I should order another gasket AND one of the valve cover bolts from Sunset.

It was almost impossible to get to that nut...very frustrating with the tubes in the way.

Also, I probably over-tightened the nuts, messing up the gasket's shape or something.

Luis de Prat

I was able to remove the cover without taking apart the fuel lines. Just push them enough to access the bolt. It helps to use a small enough ratchet to get under them. I bought a torque wrench precisely for this job, since these bolts are notorious for stripping.

It's really a very straightforward job. If you replace all the O-rings, etc. there should be no leaking oil.

AndyK

Can I break one of those hoses if I move it too much to get to the screw??

Also...you know the 4 spark plug gaskets? Do they only go in one way? I am getting some minor drops of oil originating from the gaskets, down onto the top of the plug. Could I have put them in upside down, etc?

Luis de Prat

I think you can actually maneuver a ratchet and extension between the 2 hoses or beneath them. Don't remember how I did it, but I found a way to not push them too much. Try different sized ratchets, etc.

IIRC, they do in fact go in "one way only." You need to look at the old ones closely before replacing them.

AndyK

Uhhh...old ones were tossed before I realized I needed to check their orientation! I figured the flat side went against the head...maybe it's the other way around? D'oh!?

Luis de Prat

Actually, I think you're right. They did go the other way around. I almost made the same mistake, but a few of mine were stuck to the cam cover so hard that I realized the way they went.

Now that I think of it, I believe I used an extension between the hoses.

HTH

AndyK

Damn! No wonder I am getting a leak from those plug gaskets! Gotta reverse those when I get my new valve cover gasket.

I used an extension between the hoses...no problem. Problem was getting the screw back in. Before it is screwed down, it sits about an inch above the cover--and the hoses are right on top of it, in the way!

Marc Gelefsky

Sounds like you are having fun Andy...

Saw an Alpine white S2 w/the later spoiler and 968 mirrors on the way to work.
Rennlister?

AndyK

I may take your advice and give your mechanic a call. I still have that rear suspension creak even after the new shocks, so I am thinking sway bar bushing, or something.

I'm gonna do the AFM repair this weekend, hopefully that will smooth out the engine some. I'll replace the valve cover gasket when the replacement screw arrives. Then there's the 968 wheel paint delema...

As my wife says, it does seem never-ending!

Marc Gelefsky

From the wifes point of view, Never ending is a bad thing.

I think if I bought a car that never needed anything I would be bored!

AndyK

I'd like to be board at this point! I can't see buying a car that you COULDN'T buy something for...performance, appearance, etc. But a car that needs repairs is a different story!

It's slowly coming together. My luck, the clutch will go as soon as the 968 rims go on!

Rally Guy

Sort of OT - when the Valve cover's off - how best to refinish it? Mine's baffed - looks like hell.

Thougths?

Thanks - gonna do this job (and replace the chain tensioner this weekend.

TIA.

RK

Luis de Prat

Rally guy, some folks have them professionally powder coated. I like the stock beige finish, myself, but I'll admit there are some interesting color schemes out there.

triscadek

While you're in there you also might replace the cam chain ramp too. Be careful removing the valve cover bolts I had 1 break trying to loosen it.