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so i checked my plugs on the weekend but was pretty shocked to find that the 3 rear plugs came out with their threads covered in engine oil. the ends of the plugs that sat inside the cylinders all looked normal though.

so i think the valve cover gasket is leaking oil around the spark plugs. is this gasket as easy to change as i think?

- obtain new gasket
- unbolt valve cover
- take old gasket out
- clean sealing surfaces up a bit
- put new gasket in
- bolt it all up

do i need to buy a torque wrench, or can i just do them up \"not too tight\"?

Yup, cam cover is as easy as you think, and no, you don't need a torque wrench. Go with your gut, keeping in mind the thread is actually waaaay down the bottom of the bolts, so you don't want it to snap.

I would also give the cam cover gasket a coating of gasket goo, and replace your cam angle sensor o-ring while you are at it.

What 1red said......but also have read here

==>> http://www.miata.net/garage/valvecover/index.html

It is important to apply high temp sealant as described in the link otherwise the new gasget will start to leak at these points.

J

Are you going to paint it?

The crinckle paint on green comments car looks neat

Where bouts in Sydney are you? I'm due to replace mine too and I'm considering doing it myself.

*I like to watch* - and help out, if I'm available.

thanks for the advice. i probably won't paint it, although i think a crackle black cover with polished raised lettering would look amazing...

i'm out near parramatta, but usually work on my car at a friend's place in epping. won't have time to do this for at least a couple of weeks though - i need my suspension sorted first. http://www.mx5cartalk.com/viewtopic.php?t=30663

That's cool, I'm working on my uni assignment for the next few weeks. I'm in West Ryde. Just let us know when you plan to work on it and I'll drop by if I'm available.