I replaced my front valve cover a few days ago cuz it was leaking pretty bad. Checked this morning and realized it’s leaking again… right in the front. I didn’t use any sealant, as directed, but now I’m wondering if I should have. I’m scared to try to tighten the bolts anymore cuz I don’t want them to break off (had this happen twice already). Please help! Any suggestions or comments will be appreciated!

 

You're wondering if you should use sealant as directed? Where is the wonder coming from?

Yes, use Hondabond sealant where/as directed.

Use a genuine Honda valve cover gasket.

Why would it help to tighten bolts past when they're already tight?

Bolt torque is like 8LB-FT. Its listed in the manual. Don't just guess. If you insist on guessing, use a 1/4" drive tool so you are less likely to break the bolt.

That's how they build leak-free cars at the factory.

Did you replace the bolts that were broken? Or is this a mystery leak that's not really a mystery at all?

 

^^^ THIS ^^^

I always 'finger-tightened" VC bolts (socket on extension) -- and that's like 8-11 LBS for me (I checked, plus experience) -- just don't smoosh the gaskets or gloop-up the sealant.
No leaks, ever.
Cranking VC bolts down is bad, m'kay?

 

I would never use a ratchet to tighten the VC bolt, I use the socket screw driver to tightened. OP did you use OEM valve cover gasket? if you did, did you install them correctly? I use a red scottbrite and gently scrub the surface where the old gasket used to seat then follow up with brake cleaner to remove any residue/ dirt might sit in there. When install the valve cover make sure you got a good direct contact with the head, otherwise the gasket will roll over and cause a leak.

 

What's wrong with using a Fel-Pro or Victor Reinz gasket?

 

I used Fel-Pro and heres the result...

Replaced all VC gaskets last year. I'd recommend OEM going forward.

Also agree to hand tighten valve cover screws and don't go over 8ft/lbs torque. I snapped one last year. I was in a pinch and Honda bond to get the car running for work lol.

 

Is there any pics that show where exactly to apply hondabond when replacing gaskets? Is it just all around?

 

No Honda bond needed for this job.

 

Why not just go with the OEM and be pretty much worry free? Just spit balling here but the difference can't be more then what $60? I saw a guy post on facebook an entire front end suspension kit.....

(2) Front Sway Bar Links
(2) Front Lower Ball Joints
(2) Front Outer Tie Rods
(2) Front Lower Control Arms
(2) Front Upper Control Arms with Ball Joints
(2) Front Inner Tie Rods

For the great bargain price of $299! And proceeded to ask if it was a good quality kit. Champagne dreams - beer $ geesh...

 

Some people like to gamble at the casino, other put all bet on the LBJ. I am neither one of those people.