4.3l valve cover leak

[shaun57]

Hi all,

I'm new to iboats and I have reviewed other post in reference to my question and I haven't found a clear answer...

I have a 1998 4.3l mercruiser with a valve cover leak. I purchased the valve cover gasket kit and plan on installing them in the fall. I noticed there is barely any room between the valve covers and exhaust manifolds and I'm hoping to get the job done without removing the exhaust manifold. Has anyone ever replaced the valve cover gaskets on this style engine without removing the exhaust manifolds? If so, does anyone have any tips?

Thanks you so much

Shaun

 

[Scott Danforth]

yes its tight, and yes you can get them replaced without removing the manifolds

however why wait until fall, its a 20 minute job

 

[shaun57]

Thank you for your reply. I'll take your advice and replace them sooner than later

 

[Bt Doctur]

You could remove 2 bolts, install 2 longer bolts, remove the remaining 2 bolts and slide the manifold back a bit to make it easier.

If installing new manifold gaskets use 2 riser bolts on the ends to install the manifold, slip gasket in between the manifold and head MS 94054 then install the 2 center manifold bolts, remove the long end bolts and install the normal bolts and tighten

If you have the side room:
cut the heads of 2 riser bolts and cut a slot or grind the end flat for removal.
Install long bolts on the end holes,install gasket, slide manifold onto long studs, install 2 bolts, remove studs and install bolts, tighten.

 

[shaun57]

I was hoping to avoid touching the manifold if I don't have to....With my luck I'll snap a bolt off. Hopefully I can just wiggle cover off and get the job done

 

[Bt Doctur]

The only bolts I have found impossable to remove are the SS bolts the owners install instead of normal steel bolts.