Valve Cover Gasket Issues

[dfarres]

I put this in the other forum for 92-95 civics since mine is a 93 but no one will answer so i'm trying my luck here. I wish I still had my 90 Hatch!

I did a ton of work to my car last year and ever since my valve cover gaskets have been leaking and it's getting worse. I replaced the main one and the plug seals (they are fine) but I couldn't replace the bolt grommets. The bolts have a flare on them so I can't remove the old seals and put new ones on. Do I have to buy new bolts or what? Also one the bolts stripped the threads on the head so I can't tighten it to specs. I used a torque wrench so I know it didn't strip from being over tightened. What's the best way to fix the threads, fill the hole and tap or maybe they make a heli-coil type fix?

I tired of smelling burnt oil everytime I stop somewhere so I guess it's time to fix it.

Thanks in advance for the help.

[pbrizzle86]

the seals will come off the bolts... they are a pain, i usually slip a deep well socket over them and tap them off with a tapular device such as a hammer. going on with the new seals you can go the same route in the opposite manner, but you may just want to try to work them on with your fingers as to not damge the seal.... for you stripped out bolt hole issue you will have to put in a helicoil. go to the parts store with your bolt size and thread pitch and buy the kit for doing them. its easy to do... just make sure you dont get metal shavings in the motor when your doing it. if you have more questions ask away

[dfarres]

Thanks for the info. You guys are great in this forum.