Thanks for the tips. I have ordered the Beck Arnley Valve Cover Gasket Set which includes the tube seals. Do you think I could use a Permatex or JB Weld Silicone gasket maker for the corners of the gasket or should I stick with Hondabond High-Temp Silicone Liquid Gasket 1.9 fl oz?

 

Any gasket maker will do. Black, red or grey.

 

Permatex Grey seems to be the closest to HondaBond.

 

What are the torque specs. for the valve cover? I don't want to warp the gasket.

 

I think it's 7 ft-lb, but I remember feeling like the torque wrench was tightening the bolts too much. Use a 1/4 inch socket wrench and tighten the bolt until snug and you'll be good.

The bigger risk is snapping the bolt or cracking the valve cover by overtightening. As long as the gasket stays in the valve cover channel when you install the cover, you really can't warp the gasket.

 

Thanks!

 

See image for torque specs. and recommended tightening sequence.

 

No disrespect to Mr Redbull -1 or Honda of America
The only thing that i agree with the above statement even if it is from Honda , is to tighten the valve cover in criss cross pattern like it shows in picture
I have done hundred upon hundred of these jobs, I have never used a torque wrench to tighten valve cover,
I have always put oil in engine as soon as i tighten valve cover
I have always started the engine immediately after i put oil in engine AND
i have never ever had any problems whatsoever , no leaks or any other issues ..

 

I think the OP has never done it so teach the right way and let them develop the bad habits.

I hardly pull my torque wrench out but that's because I've being doing it long enough to do most things by feel and know what tools to use for the job.

 

I noticed a couple of references to refilling the engine with oil. Do I need to drain the oil before doing a valve cover gasket replacement? I am also changing out the plugs and plug coils, would you advise removing the spark plugs while the valve cover is off?