Valve Cover Gaskets - Both

This procedure replaces both valve cover gaskets on the 2005 Dodge Viper 8.3L V10 engine, requiring removal of ignition coils, spark plug wiring, and associated hardware to access the valve covers on each cylinder bank.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Valve cover gasket - left bank × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Valve cover gasket - right bank × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Valve cover bolt grommets (set) × 1 — Use OEM specification - typically included with gasket kit
• RTV silicone sealant (small tube) × 1 — Mopar or equivalent high-temp RTV

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold to the touch
2. Disconnect negative battery cable and isolate from battery terminal
3. Remove engine cover if equipped
4. Clean external debris from valve cover area to prevent contamination during disassembly
5. Have a clean workbench or container ready to organize removed components by cylinder bank

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove ignition coils - both banks
   Disconnect the electrical connectors from each ignition coil by pressing the release tab and pulling firmly. Remove the ignition coil mounting bolts (one per coil, 10 coils total). Carefully pull each coil straight up and out of the spark plug tube. Inspect each coil for oil contamination in the boot area and set aside in order.
2. 2

   Remove spark plugs
   Using compressed air or a clean cloth, thoroughly clean around each spark plug to remove any debris or oil from the plug tubes. Using a 16mm or 5/8" spark plug socket with extension, carefully remove all 10 spark plugs. Inspect plug condition and set aside. If oil is present in plug tubes, clean tubes thoroughly with shop towels before proceeding.
3. 3

   Disconnect PCV hoses and breather connections
   Locate and disconnect the PCV valve hose from the left valve cover. Disconnect the breather hose from the right valve cover. These are typically push-fit connections - pull firmly while twisting slightly. Note routing for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Remove left bank valve cover bolts
   Remove the valve cover bolts from the left bank in a cross-pattern starting from the outer edges working inward. There are typically 10-12 valve cover bolts per side. Keep bolts and grommets organized by bank.
   ℹ️Valve cover bolts use rubber grommets that may need replacement if damaged or compressed.
5. 5

   Remove left valve cover
   Gently lift the left valve cover straight up. If it is stuck to the cylinder head, use light taps with a rubber mallet on the cover edges to break the gasket seal. Do not pry between the cover and head as this can damage the sealing surface. Once free, lift the cover away and set aside on a clean surface.
6. 6

   Remove right bank valve cover bolts and cover
   Repeat the removal process for the right bank valve cover. Remove all valve cover bolts in a cross-pattern, then lift the cover straight up. Use light tapping with a rubber mallet if the cover is stuck to the gasket. Remove and set aside.
7. 7

   Clean valve cover mating surfaces on cylinder heads
   Using a plastic gasket scraper, carefully remove all old gasket material from both cylinder head mating surfaces. Take care not to gouge or scratch the aluminum. Remove all traces of old RTV sealant if present. Clean the surfaces thoroughly with brake cleaner and lint-free towels until completely clean and dry. Inspect for any damage or warping.
8. 8

   Clean valve covers
   Remove old gaskets from both valve covers. Clean the valve cover gasket sealing surfaces with a plastic scraper and brake cleaner. Inspect each cover for warping by placing on a flat surface - replace if significantly warped. Clean the interior of covers to remove any oil deposits or debris. Ensure spark plug tube seals in the covers are in good condition.
9. 9

   Install new valve cover gaskets
   Install the new valve cover gaskets into the groove on each valve cover. Ensure gaskets are fully seated in the groove around the entire perimeter. Apply a small dab of RTV silicone sealant at the front corners where the intake manifold meets the cylinder head (typically two spots per side) - this prevents oil seepage at the gasket junction points. Allow RTV to become tacky per manufacturer instructions (typically 5-10 minutes).
   ℹ️Do not use excessive RTV - only small dabs at junction points. Too much sealant can squeeze into oil passages.
10. 10

    Install left valve cover
    Carefully position the left valve cover with new gasket onto the cylinder head, ensuring proper alignment of all bolt holes and spark plug tubes. Install new rubber grommets on valve cover bolts if original grommets are damaged. Hand-thread all valve cover bolts to prevent cross-threading. Once all bolts are started, tighten in a cross-pattern sequence from the center outward to the specified torque of 10 Nm (7 lb-ft).
11. 11

    Install right valve cover
    Repeat the installation process for the right valve cover. Position the cover with new gasket onto the cylinder head, install grommets and hand-thread all bolts, then torque in a cross-pattern sequence from center outward to 10 Nm (7 lb-ft).
12. 12

    Reconnect PCV and breather hoses
    Reconnect the PCV valve hose to the left valve cover, ensuring it is fully seated. Reconnect the breather hose to the right valve cover. Verify both connections are secure and properly routed.
13. 13

    Install spark plugs
    Install all 10 spark plugs by hand first to ensure proper threading, then torque to the factory specification (verify OEM value for this engine, typically ~20 Nm / 15 lb-ft) using a torque wrench and spark plug socket. Do not apply anti-seize unless specified by the plug manufacturer, as it can alter effective torque and lead to over-tightening.
    ⚠Over-torquing spark plugs in aluminum heads can strip threads. Use a torque wrench and do not exceed specification.
14. 14

    Install ignition coils
    Apply a thin coating of dielectric grease to the inside of each ignition coil boot if desired. Install each ignition coil into its respective spark plug tube, ensuring it is fully seated on the spark plug. Install the coil mounting bolt and torque to 8 Nm (6 lb-ft). Reconnect the electrical connector to each coil, ensuring a positive click.
15. 15

    Final checks and battery reconnection
    Verify all electrical connectors are properly seated and latched. Verify all hoses are reconnected. Reinstall engine cover if equipped. Reconnect the negative battery cable. Double-check that no tools or shop towels have been left in the engine bay.

Reassembly

1. Valve cover bolts must be torqued in a cross-pattern sequence from center outward to prevent gasket distortion and ensure even sealing pressure
2. Do not start the engine immediately - perform a visual inspection for proper installation of all components
3. If RTV sealant was used, allow the recommended cure time before starting the engine if specified by the sealant manufacturer

Verification

• Start the engine and allow it to idle for several minutes while observing both valve covers for any signs of oil seepage
• Check around the entire perimeter of both valve covers, paying particular attention to the front corners where RTV was applied
• Rev the engine gently to 2000-3000 RPM and observe for leaks under increased crankcase pressure
• After a 20-30 minute test drive, recheck valve covers for any oil seepage while engine is running
• After engine cools, verify valve cover bolt torque has not loosened (re-torque if necessary after initial heat cycle)

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