Hello!

I have an 88 Maxima SE that leaks oil from underneath the front valve cover. I already purchased the replacement gasket (black soft rubber),
but I am not too familiar with Nissan V6 and its secrets.

My question is: Do I need any sealant to use with the gasket in order to achieve the longest time of free of oil leak?

If I do, what kind? the regular black liquid rubber from any auto parts store or anything better than that?

Would you put it in the groove of the cover AND on the surface of the gasket too or only in the groove?

(If I wanted to do this on a huntch and my experience with European cars, I would not use any sealant, I'd just clean the surface of the head and put the cover with the gasket on dry.)

Any tipp?

Thanks,

Geza
San Fernando Valley, CA

 

You're right, you don't need to use any sealant with the valve cover gasket, just clean the surface, put it on, and torque the bolts between .7 - 2.2 ft. lbs. Don't tighten too much or you may damage your new gasket.

-C-

 

Charlie,
Thank you for your advice!
Geza

 

You could also replace the little rubber grommet on the screws that lays down on the valve cover. They're usually around $.99/ea at the dealership.

Well worth replacing though.

-A