Valve Cover Buyers Guide

Valve covers are an often misunderstood but important part of your engine. Highly visible, many people see them as a “dress-up” part to serve as a way to enhance an engine’s appearance. However, they serve an important function, protecting the valves and valvetrain assembly.

In this blog post, we’ll uncover the real job of the valve cover and answer the most common questions we get about its functionality, signs of trouble, and DIY replacement.

What Does A Valve Cover Do? 

The most important function of a valve cover is to protect your engine’s cylinder head and its intricate components, including the valves, springs, rocker arms, and, in some cases, the camshaft. By covering this area, valve covers prevent oil leaks and debris ingress, helping to keep the oil and valvetrain assembly clean and operating smoothly.

In addition to protecting your engine, a set of custom valve covers can add a pop of color or brighten up your engine compartment. They are one of the least expensive but easiest ways to customize the look of your engine, making it stand out.

How Do I Know If My Valve Cover Needs To Be Replaced? 

Valve covers are very durable, but like any part in a car, they can get damaged or need to be replaced. The most common signs that your valve cover or its gasket might be in need of attention include:

• Oil Leaks: The most frequent sign is oil pooling around the valve cover or leaking onto the exhaust manifold, creating a burning smell and smoke under the hood.
• Visible Cracks or Damage: Valve covers can crack or get damaged, causing oil leaks or leading to other problems with your engine.
• Dirty Rocker Arms, Springs, Cams, or Other Valvetrain Components: A damaged valve cover or bad gasket can allow dirt and other debris inside, which can gum up your valves or other parts of the valvetrain.
• Engine Performance Issues: A failing valve cover can impact engine performance and fuel efficiency.
• Low Oil Levels: If you find yourself constantly topping up the oil, your valve cover might be to blame.

Can I Keep Driving With A Bad Valve Cover?

While it might be tempting to postpone repairs, driving with a compromised valve cover or gasket is not recommended. The consequences can be severe and cost you more money:

• Increased Risk of Engine Damage: Bad valve covers can create oil leaks or let dirt and debris in, leading to insufficient lubrication, causing premature wear and potential engine damage.
• Fire Hazard: Oil leaks near hot engine components like exhaust manifolds or catalytic converters can burn oil, creating smoke and posing a fire hazard.
• Environmental Impact: Oil leaks can contaminate the environment, creating a sludge buildup on your engine or underneath your vehicle and also creating unsightly oil stains on your driveway or garage floor.

Can I Replace A Valve Cover or Valve Cover Gasket Myself?

In short, yes, you can! Replacing a valve cover or its gasket is a task that most car enthusiasts can tackle with the right tools and knowledge. Here’s a simple step-by-step overview:

1. Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a socket set, torque wrench, a new valve cover gasket, and a new valve cover (optional).
2. Locate the Valve Cover: In most cases, the valve cover is located near the top of the engine. Depending on the engine type, you may have one or two valve covers.
3. Remove Components: Disconnect any hoses or wiring attached to the valve cover as well as anything that blocks its removal.
4. Unbolt the Cover: Use your socket set to carefully remove the bolts securing the valve cover.
5. Clean and Inspect: Clean the gasket surface and inspect the valve cover for any damage or debris.
6. Replace the Gasket: Swap out the old gasket for the new one.
7. Reassembly: Reinstall the valve cover, tightening the bolts gradually and evenly. It’s a good idea to start in the middle of the valve cover and work your way out to ensure the gasket gets a good seal.
8. Torque to Specifications: Use a torque wrench to ensure the bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.
9. Check for Oil Leaks: Start the car and let it warm up. Then, inspect the valve covers for any signs of oil leaks.

Karl’s Is Your Go To Source For Custom Valve Covers

At Karl Kustoms, we carry many different valve covers, including these popular options and accessories:

If you have questions about valve covers or anything else, contact Karl Kustoms at 866-697-8615 or online. We have lots of engine dress-up components you want at the lowest prices, and our knowledgeable staff is