anything i need to do/know before replacing gasket valve covers?

[johndeeregarner]

Good luck man. With all those wires and everything it can be a PAIN to get it in there. You may find it easier to take the intake off and try it like that. Its not to hard to take the intake off, just a couple bolts. You are going to have to remove the fuel lines to take off the covers though.
I like the cork gaskets more then the rubber. I have used rubber in the past and I had to replace most of them because they wouldn't stop leaking.

 

[177CIOfPureLove]

No offence man, but popular belief is to stay away from the cork. Cork is a natural living thing and degrades over time, esp in the presence of oil and heat. Cork is also just like a sponge that absorbs oil too, and begins leaking in my experience. Coat both surfaces with a sealant and use a rubber felpro, take the time to make sure the gasket is aligned best as possible.

 

[idriveafordranger94]

If the valve cover is bent up, can you straighten it out without ruining it?

 

[Sultan]

I also need to do this ASAP. I have the rubber gaskets. I haven't been able to find instructions in either the Chilton or my shop manual and I am a marginal mechanic.

So looking at the project I am not sure how to get the covers out. Do I need to remove the AC pump?

Any guidance would be great.