Another cracked Valve Cover

CDeutsch · 05-14-2005

I found out my valve cover is cracked today. Has anyone tried JB welding one or real welding? Or is the only fix to replace it?

TheBlizzard · 05-14-2005

I have just replaced them nor have I ever really heard of anyone attempting to fix them. I guess it wouldn't be a bad idea if it was possible but I have not heard of a good way of doing it.

CRAIG

Wizard · 05-14-2005

JB weld has always worked for me. Just be careful to let it set completely before installing. Try JB Quik, it sets in 5 minutes, cures in a few hours. Welding is not really worth it since it's aluminum and kinda thin where it usually cracks. Would cost you around $30-50 to get it welded and that's what you can find a new one for. Don't forget that all 4g DOHC models use the same cover (1g and 2g, even Mirage, colt, etc with DOHC) and don't forget the forgotten Hyundai's. The late model ones (factory black with polished letters, doesn't say Hyundai) are a great investment. If anyone has seen these, they are gorgeous, and extremely beefed up. They use tall shoulder bolts to allow even torque and the underside has ton of reinforment ribbing to prevent cracks. As well as a much more refined gasket surface to prevent leaks. Bolts up no problem, just need the matching gaskets and bolts.

BTW, I'm looking for one of these myself, 94-96 Elantra and 94-98 Sonata. Hit me up if you see one.

When tightening your vavle cover, use a 1/4 ratchet, and grab it at the head of the ratchet. This makes it harder to overtighten. The bolts only need to be a little bit more than snug. Once you see the gasket compress, STOP. Let the gasket do it's job.

Wiz

Raptor · 05-14-2005

Or use the appropriate torque spec and wrench. 36 inch pounds would be correct.

As for the Black valve cover off the Elantra, EriK should have an extra (MATCHBX). They are quite a bit beefier, but if you leave the salvage yard without the bolts, throw it out. They are rediculously expensive to buy from the dealer.

blageo23 · 05-14-2005

I bought one from the junkyard not knowing they had longer bolts so i just threw them away. Then i orderd SS valve cover bolts for SB and it was a waist of money. cuz they didnt fit. so i went to Ace and found ones that fit. I shaved mine and it looks tight as hell.

blageo23 · 05-14-2005

and i paid $6 for mine and thats like how much JB weld probably is. just take a few min out of your time to pull it.

CDeutsch · 05-15-2005

Hmmm, I like the sound of that Hyundai valve cover. I'll have to find one of those, but until I can find one I think I'll try the JB weld. I'm mostly worried about it standing up to the heat.
Thanks guys!

blageo23 · 05-15-2005

Go to upull in what east bethel. they always have them. I wasnt even looking for a valve cover but i just picked it up for shits.

xluciusx · 05-15-2005

Yeah that hyunai cover sounds really nice. Mine looks like crap and the plastic covering the spark plugs is even worse.

Wizard · 05-15-2005

Here's a pic of the valve cover i'm talking about.

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2004-...5/82_12_sb.jpg

And that's factory.

Wiz