This video will show you how to replace the left and right bank valve cover gaskets, spark plug tube seals and the rubber grommets for the valve cover bolts on a 2004 Acura TL as well as Honda’s Accord with the same 3.2L V6 engine. These V6 engines typically having over 100,000 miles and/or over 10 years old tend to develop leaks at and around the valve cover gaskets. In addition, these leaks could finds its way to the alternator (thereby prematurely damaging it), and the engine’s oil level may drop below the oil dip stick minimum oil mark before the next oil change. Tightening the valve cover bolts will not resolve the leakage since the bolt tension is usually “bottomed out” and the rubber grommets below the valve cover bolt washer could have shrunk and hardened. The valve cover bolts are designed to “bottom out” to prevent over tensioning the rubber grommets. Very old grommets and valve cover gaskets could harden to a point where they feel like plastic and can easily break apart when bent or twisted. Applying RTV under the gasket will not stop the leakage. Consider replacing the rubber air hose leading to the throttle body when performing this job. They tend to harden and eventually crack causing a vacuum leak leading to poor engine performance.
The replacement gasket kit (which includes spark plug tube seals, valve cover rubber grommets and valve cover gaskets) used in this video was made by FelPro. I have used their products over the years and been satisfied with their consistent quality and durability. This kit is compatible with the 03′ – 09′ MDX, 05′ – 08′ RL, 04′ – 08 TL, 03′ – 07′ Accord, 05′ – 10′ Odyssey, 05′ – 08 Pilot, 06′ – 08′ Pilot, 06′ – 08′ Ridgeline and the 04′ – 07′ Saturn Vue.
The battery powered electric ratchet wrenches used to remove and install the various nuts and bolts is Milwaukee’s M12 series ratchet wrenches. The 3/8″ ratchet is over 6 years old and the 1/2″ ratchet is a recent purchase. The 1/2″ produces up to 60 lbs of torque which was ample to remove the bolts holding down the intake plenum.
Parts & Specialty Tools:
3/8″ Extension with Wobble End
https://amzn.to/2GChQWz
Dielectric Tuneup Grease
https://amzn.to/2DsF4fO
FelPro Honda Valve Cover Gasket Set
https://amzn.to/2GHn0zl
Air Intake Hose
https://amzn.to/2GLFWg2
Milwaukee M12 3/8″ Cordless Ratchet
https://amzn.to/2XR834D
Milwaukee M12 Fuel 1/2″ Ratchet
https://amzn.to/2XSS1XW
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Great video easily understandable walkthrough, without having to explain in words. What are the torque specs for the manifold when putting it back on?
Do you need to drain out coolant before replacing the valve gasket ?
I like your style brother. More show and less talking.
You made this look so easy. I’m about to do this. Need a few extra tools that made it look easier. So going to have to get that.