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Where Is the Valve Cover Gasket Located?

Reviewed by

Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

Written by CarParts.com Research Team - Updated on December 14th, 2023

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Summary

The valve cover gasket acts as a tight seal that prevents oil from leaking into other parts of the engine.
The valve cover gasket is typically seated on the valve cover, so once you find the valve cover, you’ll find the gasket too. On most vehicles, you can usually find the valve cover in between the engine block and cylinder head.
To access the valve cover gasket, you’ll have to remove everything in the way first. On some vehicles, this includes the PSV hoses, spark plug brackets, and a bunch of other wires.

Contents hide

1. Q: Where is the Valve Cover Gasket Typically Located?

2. Tips on How to Access the Valve Cover Gasket

Q: Where is the Valve Cover Gasket Typically Located?

A: The valve cover (aka “rocker arm cover”) gasket is typically made of plastic, rubber, or cork, and is a seal that prevents oil from leaking out of the engine. The oil inside the valve cover is splash oil; it’s not under pressure, but the oil will still leak in a big way if the valve cover gasket is compromised.

With the valve cover gasket removed (sometimes you have to remove the intake manifold first for access), you can see the valve springs and rockers on pushrod (OHV) engines and you’ll see the camshaft(s) on overhead cam (OHC) engines.

diagram showing the location of the valve cover gasket — Diagram showing the location of the valve cover gasket | Image Source: Richard McCuistian

Tips on How to Access the Valve Cover Gasket

Accessing the valve cover gasket can be a long and complicated process. Before everything else, you’ll have to remove everything in the way before you can even get to the gasket. On some vehicles, this includes the PSV hoses, spark plug brackets, and a bunch of other wires.

About The Authors

Written By

CarParts.com Research Team

Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Reviewed By

Richard McCuistian

Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

Richard McCuistian has worked for nearly 50 years in the automotive field as a professional technician, an instructor, and a freelance automotive writer for Motor Age, ACtion magazine, Power Stroke Registry, and others. Richard is ASE certified for more than 30 years in 10 categories, including L1 Advanced Engine Performance and Light Vehicle Diesel.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.