replace head bolts with studs without removing head
I'm surprised of this too.. valve cover gasket is new and torqued properly. I've had all sorts of issues with leaks on this motor since it was built I'm just trying to get them cleaned up.
Maybe it's due for another valve cover gasket. I wish there was something better than cork
cork gaskets have worked on a lot of engines for many years.
When changing out the gasket try these tips:
1) With the valve cover off the engine, closely inspect the bolt holes. They need to be flat, after many dis assemblies and re uses the metal around the bolt holes can get bent in. If they are use a metal block and a light hammer to reshape the metal flat.
2) Try the valve cover on the cylinder head without a gasket. it should fit all the way on and not rock. Look to verify that there is not some excess stock or other item preventing the valve cover from setting all the way down.
3) Without the valve cover in place, run each valve cover bolt in to a mounting hole and run them all in to verify that there is not debris in a hole or a bad thread that is preventing a bolt from running into the proper depth.
4) Be sure the valve cover gasket contact surface and the rail of the cylinder head is absolutely clean and flat.
5) Put a light coat of Permatex Hi Tack on the valve cover gasket area and set the gasket into the valve cover. be sure it is fully seated and in position. That will keep the gasket in the valve cover when the valve cover is removed from the head.
6) Assemble the valve cover to the head, install the bolts, do a loose-hand tight to all. Generally I don't use a 'torque' spec on valve cover and oil pan gaskets. I found that will over press the gasket and cause it to squeeze out. I get all the bolts started, then working from the inside out tighten each a bit then go around repeating the sequence. A good hand tight is all it takes. Check the valve cover bolt tightness after a short drive and then after a hundred miles or so, if any loose bolts are found, tighten them a bit more.
7) Verify that you have a functioning PCV valve connected to manifold vacuum and a breather on the valve cover that lets filtered air in. If the crankcase is not ventilated properly pressure will build up and that will cause oil leaks.
good luck and post back on what you find.
