RED RTV for Valve Cover Gaskets???

[lucas.a.bradshaw]

Probably a dumb question, I surely anticipate a borage of "are you stupid?!" replies... but i'm gonna go ahead and ask anyway

 

I have the 99 Silverado with the 5.3L V8. on said engine I have somewhat of a moderate Valve Cover Gasket leak on both VC's.

 

Can I use only a nice, even bead of RED RTV instead of a new gasket & gasket glue?

 

I've done it on older chevy engines with no problem but I know nothing special about newer models

[DaveH71]

You sure can, won't hurt a thing.

 

But do you really want to go through all the work of removing the valve covers just to fix it with a half ass repair?

 

If it was me, i would be using a gasket. Do things the right way the first time, so you don't have to do them again.

[newdude]

I think the valve cover has a groove all the way around the gasket sits in on these engines. Its not a flat surface like an oil pan where you can use RTV. Get the gasket.

[00Silverado4x4]

I think the valve cover has a groove all the way around the gasket sits in on these engines. Its not a flat surface like an oil pan where you can use RTV. Get the gasket.

 

This is exactly what you will see. Another vote for getting new gaskets.

[lucas.a.bradshaw]

Thanks guys!

yeah, slept on it and came to the same decision. bought them today. hopefully the weather is as nice tomorrow as it was today. 65DegF in January is tough lol