Best Valve Cover Gasket Sealers for Reliable Performance

I’ve wrestled with leaky valve covers more times than I care to admit. That oily mess, the constant check engine light… it’s a nightmare for any car enthusiast. So, when it came time to tackle my latest valve cover leak, I decided to do some serious research to find the best valve cover gasket sealers for reliable performance. This guide is the result of that research, comparing five popular options and sharing what I learned, to help you avoid the headache and expense of repeated repairs. We’ll cover features, pros and cons, and who each product is best for.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	FEL-PRO 1635 Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set	View on Amazon
	LS Valve Cover Center Bolt Seal Grommet Gasket 5.3l 6.0l…	View on Amazon
	FEL-PRO VS 50358 R Valve Cover Gasket Set	View on Amazon
	HIMARKLIF Throttle Body Valve Cover Gasket Seal Compatible…	View on Amazon
	FEL-PRO VS 50604 R Valve Cover Gasket Set	View on Amazon

FEL-PRO 1635 Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set

This Fel-Pro gasket set is a solid choice for many GM V8 engines. It’s a complete kit, which is a huge plus. The PermaDry material is designed for durability and ease of installation. I found it relatively straightforward to put in, even for a weekend mechanic like myself. The rigid core and silicone rubber ensure a good seal, even on slightly imperfect surfaces. While not designed for emission-controlled vehicles, it’s a reliable option for many classic muscle cars or trucks.

• Compatible with several GM V8 engines (check compatibility!)
• PermaDry molded rubber
• Rigid core for strength
• Molded silicone rubber for easy installation
• Stainless steel compression limiters

Pros:
– Complete gasket set
– Durable materials
– Relatively easy installation

Cons:
– Not for emission-controlled vehicles
– Compatibility needs to be carefully checked

Best for: Owners of classic GM V8 engines needing a reliable replacement.

User feedback summary: Many users reported a good, lasting seal and easy installation, but some highlighted the importance of carefully verifying compatibility before purchasing.

LS Valve Cover Center Bolt Seal Grommet Gasket 5.3l 6.0l…

This grommet gasket focuses on just the center bolt seal, which is a common leak point in LS engines. Its high-quality material promises longevity and a secure seal. While it’s a smaller part than a full gasket set, its specialized design can be a very effective solution if that’s your specific problem area. The direct replacement aspect makes installation quick and easy.

• For LS engine models (5.3L, 6.0L, etc.)
• High-quality materials for durability
• Designed for a reliable seal on the center bolt
• Direct replacement for original grommet

Pros:
– Easy installation
– Addresses a common leak point
– Durable materials

Cons:
– Only addresses the center bolt seal, not the entire valve cover
– Specific to LS engines

Best for: Owners of LS engines experiencing leaks specifically around the center valve cover bolt.

User feedback summary: Users generally praised its effectiveness in solving center bolt leaks. A few mentioned it needed careful alignment for a perfect fit.

FEL-PRO VS 50358 R Valve Cover Gasket Set

Fel-Pro’s VS 50358R is designed to work even on surfaces that aren’t perfectly smooth. Its cork-rubber formulation is highly conformable, making it a good option if your valve cover surfaces are a bit worn. I appreciate the “every part for the repair” approach; it saves you from hunting down missing pieces. The real-world testing gives me confidence in its reliability.

• Designed for imperfect sealing surfaces
• Cork-rubber formulation for conformability
• Includes all necessary parts
• Real-world tested for optimal performance

Pros:
– Works well on imperfect surfaces
– Complete gasket set
– Real-world tested

Cons:
– Might not be the best choice if you have perfectly smooth surfaces

Best for: Vehicles with slightly damaged or worn valve cover sealing surfaces.

User feedback summary: Users consistently noted its ability to seal even on less-than-perfect surfaces. A few mentioned a slightly more challenging installation compared to other options.

HIMARKLIF Throttle Body Valve Cover Gasket Seal Compatible…

This gasket is specifically designed for certain Polaris ATVs and UTVs. The nitrile rubber material is oil and heat-resistant, offering good sealing properties. Its simple design and easy installation make it a solid option for those who need a replacement for their Polaris vehicles. It’s a direct replacement for the specified part number, making identification easy.

• Nitrile rubber (oil and heat-resistant)
• Compatible with specific Polaris models (check compatibility!)
• Easy installation
• Direct replacement for part number 5413874

Pros:
– Easy installation
– Durable material
– Specific compatibility for Polaris vehicles

Cons:
– Only compatible with select Polaris models
– Not a universal fit

Best for: Polaris ATV and UTV owners needing a valve cover gasket replacement, specifically those needing part number 5413874.

User feedback summary: Users found it easy to install and effective in stopping leaks on their Polaris machines. However, reviews emphasized the importance of checking compatibility before purchase.

FEL-PRO VS 50604 R Valve Cover Gasket Set

Similar to the VS 50358R, the FEL-PRO VS 50604R uses a cork-rubber formulation to provide a reliable seal even on less-than-perfect surfaces. Its ability to conform to irregularities makes it a great option for older engines or those that have experienced some wear and tear. The inclusion of all necessary parts in one kit streamlines the repair process. Like its counterpart, this one boasts real-world testing for added peace of mind.

• Designed for imperfect sealing surfaces
• Cork-rubber formulation for conformability
• Includes all necessary parts
• Real-world tested for optimal performance

Pros:
– Works well on imperfect surfaces
– Complete gasket set
– Real-world tested

Cons:
– May not be ideal for perfectly smooth surfaces

Best for: Older vehicles or those with worn valve cover sealing surfaces needing a reliable seal.

User feedback summary: Users appreciated its ability to create a reliable seal on surfaces that might leak with other gaskets. Similar to the VS 50358R, some noted it was slightly more challenging to install than other options due to the material’s conformability.

Practical Buying Advice:

The best valve cover gasket sealer for you depends entirely on your vehicle and the specific nature of your leak. Always double-check compatibility before purchasing. If you’re dealing with a general leak and have a common engine, a full gasket set like those offered by Fel-Pro might be your best bet. However, if the leak is isolated to a specific point, a more targeted solution might be more efficient and cost-effective. Consider the condition of your valve cover surfaces; if they’re worn, a conformable gasket is crucial.

Final Verdict:

Choosing the right valve cover gasket sealer is all about finding the right fit for your specific needs and vehicle. Each of these products excels in different areas, so careful consideration of your vehicle’s requirements is paramount for achieving reliable performance and avoiding unnecessary repairs down the line.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: How often do valve cover gaskets need replacing?
A: This varies greatly depending on vehicle age, usage, and environmental conditions. Signs of a failing gasket include oil leaks, low oil levels, and a smoky exhaust. Regular maintenance checks are recommended.

Q: Can I reuse a valve cover gasket?
A: It’s generally not recommended. Once a gasket is removed, its sealing properties are often compromised. Replacing it with a new one ensures a reliable seal.

Q: What type of sealant should I use with a valve cover gasket?
A: Most high-quality valve cover gasket sealers don’t require additional sealant. Using too much sealant can cause problems. Check your gasket manufacturer’s instructions.

Q: What tools do I need to replace a valve cover gasket?
A: You’ll typically need basic hand tools like sockets, wrenches, and possibly a pry bar. Consult your vehicle’s repair manual for specific instructions.

Q: How long does it take to replace a valve cover gasket?
A: The time required varies depending on your vehicle and experience. For a straightforward job, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours. More complex situations might take longer.

Q: Are there any universal valve cover gasket sealers?
A: While some gaskets may fit a wider range of vehicles, there’s no truly universal solution. Always check compatibility to ensure a proper fit and reliable performance of your best valve cover gasket sealer.