Can I use RTV on both sides of the valve cover gasket?

[-83MONTESS-]

I always have had leaks using cork gaskets on this 400 in my car now. I switched to the fel pro black composite ones and I put a decent bead of black RTV on the valve cover itself then set the gasket on it. That way its sealed to the valve cover so I can remove them in case something happens without tearing them.

 

[Poncho61]

Are your covers the stamped steel chrome Edelbrocks? Even new, the bolt holes could be dimpled down a bit and keeping the cover from pulling down evenly. Check that area out. If need be, you can roll them upside down and persuade them flat with a small ball peen hammer of a body hammer. Support the lip on the edge of a workbench while tapping the flat. You could also try some of the valve cover clamps that spread out the clamping force instead of just at the bolt hole.

 

[marcar1993]

I use cork gaskets and I thin coat them valve cover side, lay them in the cover, thin coat the head side and then put them on just barely snug. Wait 15-20 mins than just snug them up a little and I never have leak issues.

 

[Clone TIE Pilot]

I use Jeg's steel core, neoprene coated, reuseable valve cover gaskets with no oil leaks, part # 555-21100. Only cost $2 more than the old style cork gaskets. They are installed dry.

 

[MR442]

After the first 20 or so redo's 35 years I put sealant on no matter what