Oil Leaks

[yousaidpoo]

I've got a '74 1.8 that i just recently rebuilt the engine on. The first time i put the valve covers on, the passenger side one leaked so it took it off, and there wasn't enough permatex. So i redid it with more permatex, and it sealed well enough to run the engine at idle. i just drove it for the first time since the rebuild yesterday, and when i got back in, both valve covers were leaking oil, the passenger one being much worse.

So, my point is:
a) is there anything that is supposed to hold the valve cover on besides the big clip
b) is it possible that the covers are warped, and if so, how should i fix them

any help is very much appreciated

[Bleyseng]

Yes, the valve covers can/do warp. Check them by placing them on a flat surface, face down.
Make sure when you install the gasket (always use new) to butter the cover with a light coating of gasket sealant.
When installing the covers make sure they fit right first then slide the bales over them to hold them in place.
They usually leak do to them sliding around while you are trying to slide on the bales.

Geoff

[Jake Raby]

The COVERS ONLY GO ON ONE WAY!!

With the VW logo UPSIDE DOWN! Any other way yields leaks for sure.

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

Yup, the "VW" goes upside down. I "tack" the gasket to the cover in the corners with sealant, but do not put any sealant between the gasket and the head.

--DD

[yousaidpoo]

thanks for your help guys. sure enough i have them on upside down.

btw, thats pretty stupid that they go on with the logos upside down, but thats german engineering for you