[suspect]

Need to change valve cover gasket on my N54. Have you got a tips or things to watch out for? Any parts to consider for upgrade?

[BRG_N54]

Use bungee cords to hold the wiring loom up to the hood and out of the way while putting the VC back on. Might as well do spark plugs and consider replacing PCV with RB PCV. Be extra careful when disconnecting injector plugs, they are delicate and brittle!

[southshoreguy]

I agree with replacing coils and plugs when your in there. If you haven’t replaced the PVC it will be much easier with valve cover off. I used zip ties to hold the wires back. Now one year later I wish I had just replaced the entire valve cover. Have oil leak still around spark plugs.

[tcphoto]

It's just a tedious DIY, a lot of components to get out of the way in order to have room. Once you have the strut braces out of the way, you are clear to work. Once completed, I cleaned the engine and the burning oil smell was gone. I'd suggest doing the Mickey Mouse flange while you're there, mine broke into three pieces as I pulled it out.

[lowrydr310]

Originally Posted by southshoreguy

I agree with replacing coils and plugs when your in there. If you haven’t replaced the PVC it will be much easier with valve cover off. I used zip ties to hold the wires back. Now one year later I wish I had just replaced the entire valve cover. Have oil leak still around spark plugs.

What made you wish you replaced the entire valve cover? I'm leaking some oil from the back corner and need a new gasket at the very least. Are there any common problem spots I should inspect for cracks?

[southshoreguy]

After replacing the gasket I still have an oil leak in the middle. The picture of the spark plugs shows the oil seepage after 6 months. I don’t know if there is a crack or if the plastic is distorted. I will take a good look when I replace the valve cover.