Valve Cover Gasket Replacement

[StuartJ745]

I've been told by my local mechanic that both valve cover gaskets are leaking. The smell in the car when sitting at traffic lights gets pretty bad....I have to hit the re-circulate button on the heater to eliminate the smell.

My mechanic wants $350 to do both sides. He tells me the job is labor intensive...about 4 hours. Does this seem reasonable?

Also, is this something a DIY'er could do? I'm able to do brake jobs, oil changes etc. I dont want to start something that may be past my ability.

Any thoughts/comments would be greatly appreciated!!

 

[pektel]

http://www.lincolnvscadillac.com/tech/Lincoln-LS/Valve_Cover_Seal_Inspection/Valve-Cover-Seal.htm

 

[Gipp]

EVERYONE PLEASE READ THIS!!!

Im a new LS owner, just got mine in the begining of Jan. My LS had faulty gaskets as well, so I went to the dealer to get the gasket kit.

To my suprise the gaskets that go on these cars, are the same gaskets I use to make when I worked at Dana Corporation (thats Karma for you, cause I sent out alot of bad gaskets, SORRY GUYS!!) When buying, make sure to look over them real good for snips in the material (when they come out of the press there is excess flash on them that must be cut off and sometimes the gasket itself gets cut, which will cause leaking). Also, these gaskets are BAD for warping, so lay it straight and check for that as well. If you notice any of these issues I'd advise bringing it back for an exchange. Just a little heads up

 

[jagerme911]

Farm it out

It's a long job! If you can get it done for $350 that's a GREAT deal!!! I had my CAT guy do it & it took him more than 4 hrs but did it for $350!!! Im about the same when it comes to cars as you. Watching him do it Im VARY GLAD I farmed it out!!!

 

[lseguy]

passenger side is easy, drivers side is tough due to the tight space in the rear by the firewall. Bending over the fender getting back cramps and banging your knuckles on that brake booster area is NOT fun

 

[StuartJ745]

Thanks everyone......I'm sold. I'll have my mechanic do it for $350 and save this 50 year old back!!