Kind of off topic, but I figured I might as well ask here since it's the only current thread related to valve covers. When I last did my valve cover gaskets (about 3 months ago, but have only put maybe 20 miles on it since), I was torqueing down my valve cover bolts using ft-lbs instead of inch-lbs. I guess my torque wrench isn't very accurate at such low numbers, and I managed to snap one of the bolts. As far as I'm aware it's not leaking or anything, but just knowing I have a broken bolt down there is bugging me so I plan on going back in to replace it. My question is that is there anything in there that's single use? I was planning on replacing all of the bolts just to be safe, but is there anything else I should replace just because I took it apart? Mainly looking to avoid doing it a third time, but I already replaced all the additional parts Tim recommends doing. My idea was that I should be ok if I just scrape off the old RTV and replace it, then replace the rubber washers. Am I missing anything else?

Are you saying you converted the inch lbs into foot lbs or that you use the wrong torque period?

This job will take you a while just to replace the valve cover gaskets. You will find that driver side cover will fight you the most to remove it and the plastic cover for the wiring loom will most likely break. Absolutely don't go ham on the cover bolts - thats how I broke my factory cover and had to get a used one at the yard. Recommend inch pounds on a 1/4 in" torque wrench. My Felpro's are on year 4 and are doing fine although I haven't really taken a good look.

Replace the pcv grommet while you are in there, also cleaning the throttle body is easier. More access to the heater control valve if it's old.
edit: Good time to look at the fire wall side hoses also.

I converted it from inch lbs to foot lbs, but the bolt snapped before it was able to torque down all the way. The rest of them were ok, but the one just kept turning without the torque wrench clicking. Right as I started to think "this feels way too tight" the head snapped off... I'm not sure if I really need to replace it since I'm not noticing any leaks, but it's bugging me knowing that I'm missing a bolt down there so I plan on fixing it when I don't have any other projects to work on.

I'd find a way to extract the broken bolt and replace it without removing the valve cover.

When I did this job on my 02 a few years back I took my time and became a proud member of the weekend club.
Replaced all related parts as noted by Timmy in his earlier post and also went with OEM parts.
Turn on some good tunes, get your tools ready, take a bunch of before pictures as well as some along the way and take the opportunity to clean up engine bay, inspect all hoses wire connections/plugs belts and everything else under the hood.
I took notes documenting my steps so it’s easier next time around. I enjoy the work so no reason to rush through it.

When I did the 1997 limited. We resealed the entire engine minus the head gaskets. I can tell you it's alot easier to do that with the engine out..

I do have reseal my 1998 engine yet. As it's bad enough that if you drive around with the windows down you smell the oil burning.

I probably should check the valve clearance as it's at 290k. I did the timing belt a while ago to fix a coolant link.

The entire front of the engine is all resealed now too.


I use toyota oem gaskets and seals for the valve cover project.

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For anyone wondering, the Beck Arnley kit I got was identical to the Ishino kit. Ishino isn't OEM, but it is made in Japan if that does the job for you. You can also get Japanese made NOK cam plugs (they make OEM) for much less in a FelPro package. Still haven't found anything better than OEM intake gaskets or PCV parts.

As long as your valve cover gasket is still flexible (which it should be at only a few months old) I would feel fine reusing it.

there is also a gasket in the oil filler. i replaced mine on one I did years ago.
I used the Ishino gasket set at the time and never had a problem.

I will be doing my current 4runner vc gaskets etc this spring/

I'd say to do a careful job cleaning everything throughly and also painting them, it will be at least a 5 hour job.

I'm thinking of painting mine - any recommendations on which paint to use?

I've been looking at engine enamel. Ideally we'd have them powder coated but I don't really wanna wait a week with the truck torn down for that.

Lots have used VHT engine enamel with good results. I'm just trying to decide on a gloss silver for OEM look or wrinkle red for hot rod.

Good suggestions, thanks. What do you think about a DTM paint like the POR15? https://www.amazon.com/POR-15-45918-...3&sr=8-22&th=1

I wonder which would give the best protection against chemicals like throttle body cleaner etc (powder coat is probably the best approach).