I was just wondering if this is common on this motor? It is leaking a slight amount out around the valve cover gasket onto the exhaust and it is burning and making smoke roll out. Also was wondering how labor intensive it is. The car has 182,000 miles on it and sounds pretty common to me but wanted other opinions. Thanks

 

http://www.autozone.com/shopping/rep...00c152800b8499

Here is a walkthrough. Valve cover gaskets leaking are somewhat common. Looks like the 3.4 is a more involved job than the 3.8.

 

Should you replace both valve cover gasket's when you do this? I just thought it would be good so that the other side dosn't go bad and have to do that later one thanks a lot.

 

I would if I were you, especially seeing that you have to remove the upper intake manifold. Best just to do it once, and it would be easy enough to get the other while you are at it. Besides, they sell them in a pack of two, or at least that is how I bought mine. Hell, if you felt like it, it would be a good time to clean up those valve covers. Or get some rattle cans and paint them.

 

Also, don't go cheap on the gaskets. Cork is generally good because it's fairly soft, and gives a good long lasting seal. Like stan said, take the opportunity to make them valve covers pretty, good time to do it

 

Good point. I just looked at the exploded view on that walkthrough, and the gaskets appear to be the flat kind. Unlike those on a 3.8 which are rubber and sit in grooves in the cover.

 

lol, I be good at old school stuff

One other thing, don't over torque when you use a cork gasket, it could split. If used right, it'll last a long time.

 

Ok guys thanks a lot That is a good point to paint the valve covers but I will be doing most of the work at the grage I work on but when I go to school he will take over so he will be the one putting it back together will have to check on him painting. You just use like a high temp chevrolet orange or w/e color?

 

Pretty much. Clean them good, wipe them with alcohol (so paint will adhere better), follow instructions on the rattle cans (about three coats). If you have time you might want to sand them to your desired smoothness. Also, some clearcoat spray will help it last a little longer.