NO. You don't have to. In fact, Olds didn't put gaskets on G-body V8 valve covers. They don't even list them in the parts books. So if you want to do it the factory way, here it is, straight from the Chassis Service Manual. Although it's not listed here, the Diesel V8 has basically the same setup for valve cover sealing, although they state as they forget to here, tighten the valve cover bolts "seated and not stripped." Now, if you want to use gaskets, by all means. Because over the years, the RTV gets hard and cracks and causes leaks like a moo-foo. You know it, and I know it. So let your concience be your guide. But using a gasket wouldn't be factory correct. Just tossin' this out there.
The superseded number RTV for use that is called out in the service manual is now 112378521. Of course, you could use any of the good stuff like Permatex ultra, etc. But if you're wanting to get down to nitty gritty GM-approved sealer, this is the stuff.
The superseded number RTV for use that is called out in the service manual is now 112378521. Of course, you could use any of the good stuff like Permatex ultra, etc. But if you're wanting to get down to nitty gritty GM-approved sealer, this is the stuff.
