re E36 valve cover leak

[GreggOtt@xxxxxxx]

Brandon writes

<< Now, what makes the valve cover gasket leak at 50,000 miles?  Since I'll
 have to change it anyway (can't stand the fried motor oil smell), are there
 any other parts / seals I should change while I have the valve cover off?
 Better yet, any performance enhancement I could do?  Thank you so much!
  >>
I would think the gasket would have been changed several times in 50Kmi when
the valve clearances were adjusted (this is done on an E36 isn't it?).  While
you have the cover off, I would check the valve adjustment.  When you replace
the cover, make sure you tighten the bolts starting at the middle and moving
outward.  Do them in several passes a little at a time.  I don't know if there
is a torque spec or not.  It there is one, don't go over it because you can
warp the cover.  If not, start out looser than you think you need and tighten
more if necessary if you have any leakage.

Good luck
Gregg

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