Cracked valve cover

[NWFLBowhunter]

When I bought my 97 4runner back in December, it had a valve cover leak around the front bolt on the drivers side. The po said when they replaces the seal, they didn't replace the grommets. Well I cleaned it up when I got home and discover that the cover was cracked completely across where the first bolt goes probably from over torquing it. So, would you trust a salvage valve cover or should I just buy a new one? The leak isn't bad, but I have the time to fix it, so it's time.

 

[Squirt]

I've got the same problem and I'm going to go ahead and buy a new one as opposed to salvage. My thought being, the salvage one is just as old/weak from being torqued. Those corners or "ears" can easily crack if someone is overly heavy handed with a wrench.

 

[Doc2012]

I've got both in great condition if you're looking for some.

 

[Squirt]

thanks Doc...as soon as I take care of this weird hesitation/surge issue I'm having I'll have to hit the road and make the drive! what would you be asking for the pair?

 

[Doc2012]

thanks Doc...as soon as I take care of this weird hesitation/surge issue I'm having I'll have to hit the road and make the drive! what would you be asking for the pair?

PM inbound.

 

[DeathCougar]

The only reason they crack is from being massively overtorqued. They are either broken, or they aren't. Cast aluminum doesn't get "weak" in this case. I would much rather use a used one at 1/4 the price of new, and just make sure to properly torque it down. Toyota does have a torque spec!! People don't bother with the spec though and just since them down until they crack.

It's not a design flaw, it's an "I didn't follow the repair manual" flaw.

 

[Squirt]

I didn't say there was a design flaw..mine came that way. the previous owner didn't follow the repair manual ..I'm very familiar with torque specs.

 

[DeathCougar]

I know you didn't. Just stating in general. I have heard many people complain about the design, and while its true the design could have followed others that had the ridges on them, they didn't but they do have a torque spec. So my point was previous people damaged it by being careless, ergo a used on that isn't cracked will be just fine and perform the same as a new one.

 

[NWFLBowhunter]

Thanks for the replies. I'll be hitting up the local yard this weekend.

 

[spooky0512]

Jb weld

I did my valve cover gaskets couple months ago and errrr geramn torqued the corner...crack....
Cleaned it up jb weld, little sanding...bam what!!!! No more crack
Jason

 

[spooky0512]

If it really bothers you

Angelos...(sp) in pensacola, great dude and lots of 3rd gens

 

[Squirt]

Pm ' you back

 

[NWFLBowhunter]

Angelos...(sp) in pensacola, great dude and lots of 3rd gens

Yes sir, the go too place!