Change rocker cover gasket?

[Blip]

Just took the rocker cover off to paint it, and I've read that I should change the gasket anyway. But it's in good nic, but if I don't have to change it, should I wash/wipe the old oil off of it?

Cheers

[meanmx]

I've reused mine before with good and bad results so it is a bit of a lottery really. Reuse it but be prepared to buy another if it leaks. Easy enough job to risk it.

[Blip]

Dang. Maybe I should just buy a new one. How long can I leave the rocker cover off? And should I wipe the oil off of the engine?

I've never done this before so no idea.

Cheers for the replys meanmx

[koop21]

Just took the rocker cover off to paint it, and I've read that I should change the gasket anyway. But it's in good nic, but if I don't have to change it, should I wash/wipe the old oil off of it?

Cheers

1.Clean the seal and the surface i.e Oil Free
2.Use some silicon on points marked out in the workshop manual
3.Bolt into place

And meanmx is right be prepared for a replacement seal as it might leak.

[meanmx]

If it hasn't been replaced recently then I would probably get a new one. They aren't too expensive. However if I knew I replaced it last month for instance then I would reuse. Give it a go though, it's only a matter of 10 odd bolts and removing your leads to change it over. You can even let it leak for a while until you source a cheap replacement as it wont leak much.

[MrRevhead]

Step by Step instructions:

http://www.miata.net/garage/valvecover/

While you're at it, you should also change the Cam Sensor O Ring. It's quite cheap and easily accessible at the same time.

[Blip]

So while i was taking out the sealant off of the crankcase, a chunk accidentally flung down somewhere, and after looking for it back and forth for two whole hours, i have found nothing. I'm screwed, aren't i? *worried laugh*