Should I use RTV Gasket Maker on valve Cover?

Hi,

I have the valve cover off, I just replaced my out of spec shims, and painted the top cover. I bought and fitted new doughnuts on the valve cover bolts. I bought a new valve cover gasket.

I want to fit this gasket, and I think I bought the wrong adhesive. I bought Red (color) high-temperature gasket maker. The guy at the hardware store says "just use less" and fit the gasket on.

Is this good advice? What if I need to replace the gasket down the road?

Thanks for your advice.

 

Personally, I use the Elmer's glue method, I think RickOMatic suggested it. Seems to work and it's cheap. A little motor oil on the head side of the gasket so it releases nicely from the head.

As an aside, Elmer's makes a paste stick which is a little easier to apply.

 

I use Elmers because it takes awhile to set, and when the time comes to replace the Gasket, ... cleans-off with water.

A good Oil-tight Seal --> Depends <-- on the Gasket Surface SPREADING-OUT over the Head''s Gasket Surface.

The Cam Cover's Rubber Donuts need to be in good condition.

Use a Artist's Brush.
"Paint" some Oil on the Head's Surface AND the Gasket Surface.
Position it with precision.
Take-up the Fasteners until they just begin to tighten.
Re-position the Cover and Torque to Specs.

Just Oil.
NO Sealants.
The Cover is Engineered to be removed and replaced for Valve Clearance Checks.

 

Thanks, Guys!

I'll glue it on tomorrow and use the oil technique as Rick described. I have so much more to do with this bike before I can safely ride it. So much to learn.

 

I use a gasket sealer that is non hardening. Can't remember what it is called for sure. NAPA sells it, called something like "gasket maker" works great and is mostly east to remove brown in color. Makes up for a not so perfect gasket.

 

With a new gasket, the sealant is really only needed to hold the gasket in place. I used a tiny bit of sealant in about 8 spots on mine, has been on and off a few times since.