I changed my gasket. I scraped off the factory RTV Silicone since I was having leaks. I went with the Fel-pro gasket on my 88 XJ.
The first time I installed the gasket dry and it slipped at the back when I lowered the valve cover on to the head. I still have an oil leak.
I then pulled the valve cover and installed it again. I used Indian Head Gasket Shellac because someone on here talking highly about it. It worked like a charm. I applied it per the instructions then lowered the valve cover onto the head. Still not leaking 2 plus years later.
Here is a picture so you know what to look for:
http://www.cornerhardware.com/item_...terials/Indian-Head-Gasket-Shellac-2-oz-.html
I am not a fan of RTV for gaskets unless the gasket comes with it pre applied. I believe gaskets should be installed dry. The gasket material should take up any point defects in the surface.
When you use the fel pro gasket you need to use a torque wrench. tighten all 15 fasteners to the book value. Then wait 10 minutes and do it again. Repeat the torque & wait cycle until the bolts hold torque. It took me 3 rounds of torque & wait to get to the point it held torque.
With 15 fasteners you are fooling yourself to think you can make all of them the same. When I was tightening up I would in my mine say "that should be it" and see if I was right. One bolt I had to turn it an additional full turn before the wrench clicked. This gives you an excuse to buy a 250 in-lb torque wrench at sears
Always need a new tool !!!!
