Valve cover tightening sequence and torque values.

[geoz3]

Anyone know the torque settings and bolt tightening sequence for after market aluminum finned valve cover for 1973 2.0 ohc pinto motor ?

[MV8]

Minimal, even torque you can apply with a screw driver. Use rtv on the head side or the valve cover side but not both. If the gasket is extruding, it is too tight. All fasteners are brought up to torque evenly by going back a forth like when replacing a head gasket.

[geoz3]

I can't find the torque spec anywhere, I have a pinto manual.  it doesn't show anything.  nothing comes up on an internet search.

[MV8]

Cork gasket? Do you have an inch-pound torque wrench? Most people do not and a foot-pound wrench that clicks or deflecting beam is not very accurate at 5-6 ft/lbs or 60-72 in/lbs. Use a screw driver with a 1/4 drive end and a socket. Better too loose and leaks than too tight and cracks the aluminum cover, leaks, and splits the gasket. "snug and even" is the goal.

 

Some newer rubber gaskets have a positive stop for a set preload but you are just trying to squeeze the gasket a little, evenly, all the way around.

Edited May 11, 2023 by MV8

[geoz3]

Super

[IamScotticus]

Its not a critical value, its as tight as needed.

 

Light smear of oil resistant RTV  silicone sealant between the VC and gasket so it sticks to the cover when removed. 

 

Consider the VC an item that is periodically removed for valve lash checks and adjustments, so keep it easy to remove as needed.

 

What makes gaskets leak is over tightening because the compression and heat dries out the material and it hardens.  When the engine surfaces expand and contract the gaps open up to leak.

 

Hand tight on those and watch it.

Edited May 12, 2023 by IamScotticus

[geoz3]

37 minutes ago, IamScotticus said:

Its not a critical value, its as tight as needed.

 

Light smear of oil resistant RTV  silicone sealant between the VC and gasket so it sticks to top of cover when removed. 

 

Consider the VC an item that is periodically removed for valve lash checks and adjustments, so keep it easy to remove as needed.

 

What makes gaskets leak is over tightening because the compression and heat dries out the material and it hardens.  When the engine surfaces expand and contract the gaps open up to leak.

 

Hand tight on those and watch it.

The valve cover came on the motor, do you know if the standard gasket for the 2.0 will work on the cover or do I need a special gasket for ALUM cover?

[IamScotticus]

1 hour ago, geoz3 said:

The valve cover came on the motor, do you know if the standard gasket for the 2.0 will work on the cover or do I need a special gasket for ALUM cover?

I don't know Pintos well, but in general, yes, aftermarket VCs usually can use OEM gaskets.  Cork gaskets may have tabs on the sides that might need removal.

Check out Walsh for Pinto action

https://racerwalsh.com/

Edited May 12, 2023 by IamScotticus

[geoz3]

Again, thanks for all your help.

[IamScotticus]

a smear of axle grease on the bottom will help keep oil in.

[geoz3]

Thanks