valve cover gaskets

Hello all
I need to replace one of my valve cover gaskets. I figure I should do both at the same time(4.7 liter w/160,000 on it). What should I expect to pay..mostly for labor, parts are cheap and should I consider any other jobs? Starter and timing belt job were done at 100,000.
Thanks

 

Everything you need to know is linked inside this thread.

That thread, which you should read, will point you to here, which gives you all the part numbers to use, advice, and even links to other parts of the forum showing you how to do the work yourself.

Whatever you do, stick with either OEM gaskets *or* FelPro brand. Don't mess around with other brands unless you want to be doing this again not long down the road. I personally recommend OEM ... they lasted this long, right?

Some people simply find their bolts are hand-loose and just need to be snugged (don't overtighten).

I assume a shop would probably charge you 2 man-hours labor, possibly three. I wouldn't trust anyone to do the work on my truck.

 

Year model ? Stay with oem parts

 

If you are handy it is totally a one day job. The trouble comes when (and I say when on purpose) you snap the head off one of the bolts. If you don't have the tools and knowhow on getting seized bolts out or drilling bolts out definitely let someone do it.

 

I had to do a hell of a lot of cleaning thanks to being a low-mile/short commute truck. I think it took me 2.75 hours and I’m an anal-retentive SOB.

 

I prefer the FelPro ones which are silicone. Just finished mine and only managed to snap one bolt. Wasn't flush so hit it with the torch and got it hot. Sprayed some CRC Freeze Spray on it. Let it sit overnite next day backed right out.

 

I would do spark plugs too if they haven't been replaced in a while. They'll be pretty accessible there while swapping valve cover gaskets.