Help with Valve Cover Gasket

[Clemsonfan15]

So I went to AAA today to get my oil changed and they recommended that I replace my valve cover gasket. I need ya'lls help. I have done some research and have learned that gaskets can seep or leak. I have no stains on driveway so I'm pretty sure it isn't leaking. How should I check for a seep?

I also read common signs are burning smoke from the tail pipe and a odor from the oil burning on the engine. I might have this smell, but definitely not the smoke. I hardly ever smell the smell though and I'm not sure it's from oil burning.

They quoted me $90 for the gasket and like $350 for labor. I went online and found the gasket for $37 with just a quick search and I'm almost positive that I can get another shop to do the labor for a lot less.

A few questions for ya'll:

1. How should I check to see if my gasket is really bad?
2. What is envolved in changing it? Time, etc? I'm pretty sure I can't do it.
3. Is it something that needs attention asap?


Some more questions on a different topic: They also said I should have a tuneup, just based on miles. I think this included spark plugs, air filter, etc... I don't really think I need one. I think it drives well. I can see maybe changing the plugs, but that's about it. I have a K&N air filter in there now, so I think that's covered. Any ideas on what I should do?

Thanks!

 

[shootmymime]

how many miles? answer that then i can go from there

http://shop.advanceautoparts.com:80...type=107&ptset=A&searchfor=Valve+Cover+Gasket

 

[Clemsonfan15]

Right around 114,500.

 

[shootmymime]

ok you timing belt and water pump should have just been done 20K miles ago, i would look at the VC gasket and see if there is a drip or so on the head or exhaust manifold, i know mine does at 215,000 miles and i need to change them... the passenger takes about 30 min, but i have never tried the driver side because it looks like a ***** to pull due to intake.

i dont think you need to do any other maintenance
because you have such low miles just for kicks look at your oil, tranny, windshield washer, break, coolant, fluids to see if they are low

have you ever replaced your rear axle seals? check into that also

 

[Clemsonfan15]

Timing belt was done at 101,000 I think. Not sure about the water pump. Didn't own it at that time. Bought it with 108,000.

In that link you provided there are two different kinds. Do I need both? If not, is one better than the other?

 

[shootmymime]

one has the spark plug gaskets, i would get that one, the top one i think is what it is

 

[Clemsonfan15]

So just inspect the engine and gasket and go from there?

 

[shootmymime]

ya you dont need any maintenance due to low miles, look above the crank at the water pump, if there is coolant it may need to be replaced, and thats a JOB!!! umm... rear axle seals, fluids, clean your air filter, tire pressure, wash/vacume car, i guess just start looking at it and working on it

 

[Clemsonfan15]

I've heard about these rear axle seals being prone to problems. What do you look for and what are the signs.

Air filter is good. Less than 4,000 miles on it.

Tire pressure is good. Just got that done today and I try to keep them filled properly.

Just washed and vacumed it this week. Took over four hours. Looks pretty darn sharp to me.

 

[Clemsonfan15]

Any ideas from anyone else?