engine

Valve Cover Gaskets - Both

for 2017 Dodge Viper 8.4L V10 · RWD

Difficulty

Advanced

Time

3.1 h

Tools

Steps

🔍Draft — verification in progress. This procedure was built from OLP's spec database on September 13, 2026 and is queued for line-by-line review by Chris Hackleman — master technicians with 20+ years each. That review typically completes within 3 days of generation, and this banner changes to a verified badge the moment it does. Until then, cross-check every torque value and fluid capacity against the factory manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. If something looks off, report it below — a real person reads every report.

Replace both left and right valve cover gaskets on the 2008 Dodge Viper 8.4L V10 engine to eliminate oil leaks and restore proper sealing.

Warnings

⚠️Perform this procedure only on a completely cool engine. Hot valve covers and components can cause severe burns.

⚠The Viper V10 engine bay is extremely tight. Take care not to damage painted surfaces or break plastic components during disassembly.

⚠Do not use excessive force when removing valve covers as the aluminum can warp or crack.

ℹ️Mark or photograph ignition coil and harness positions before removal to ensure correct reinstallation.

Tools required

Socket set (metric)Essential

Ratchet and extensionsEssential

Torque wrenchEssential

Flat blade screwdriver

Wire brush or gasket scraperEssential

Brake cleaner or degreaserEssential

Clean shop ragsEssential

Oil drain pan

Allen key set (metric)Essential

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Parts

Left valve cover gasket × 1 — Use OEM Mopar specification
Right valve cover gasket × 1 — Use OEM Mopar specification
Valve cover bolt grommets/seals × 1 — Use OEM Mopar specification

As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.

Preparation

Ensure engine is completely cool to the touch.
Disconnect negative battery cable and secure away from battery post.
Remove engine cover (if equipped) by pulling upward on mounting grommets.
Have adequate lighting in the engine bay for visibility in tight spaces.

Procedure

1
Remove air intake components
Disconnect the air intake tube from the throttle body. Remove the air filter housing assembly by releasing clamps and disconnecting any vacuum lines or sensors attached. Set components aside to provide access to the valve covers.
2
Disconnect ignition coils - Left bank
Locate the 5 individual ignition coils on the left (driver side) valve cover. Disconnect the electrical connector from each coil by pressing the release tab and pulling straight up. Remove the mounting bolt from each coil (typically 8mm or 10mm). Pull each coil straight up from the spark plug tube and set aside in order.
3
Disconnect ignition coils - Right bank
Locate the 5 individual ignition coils on the right (passenger side) valve cover. Disconnect the electrical connector from each coil by pressing the release tab and pulling straight up. Remove the mounting bolt from each coil. Pull each coil straight up from the spark plug tube and set aside in order.
4
Remove wiring harness brackets and clips
Identify all wiring harness brackets, clips, and tie-down points mounted to or crossing over both valve covers. Remove fasteners securing these brackets (typically 8mm or 10mm bolts). Carefully relocate harnesses away from the valve covers to provide clearance for cover removal. Note routing for reinstallation.
5
Disconnect PCV and breather hoses
Disconnect the PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) hose and breather hoses from both valve covers. These typically use push-on connections or small hose clamps. Note the routing and connection points for each hose.
6
Remove left valve cover bolts
Remove the 10 valve cover bolts from the left valve cover in a crisscross pattern starting from the outer bolts and working inward. The bolts are typically 8mm Allen head fasteners. Keep bolts and any grommets or seals together for inspection.
7
Remove left valve cover
Carefully lift the left valve cover straight up off the cylinder head. If the cover is stuck to the gasket, gently tap with a soft mallet or use a flat blade screwdriver to carefully pry at designated pry points (never pry against the sealing surface). Set the cover aside with the gasket side facing up to prevent contamination.
8
Remove right valve cover bolts
Remove the 10 valve cover bolts from the right valve cover in a crisscross pattern starting from the outer bolts and working inward. The bolts are typically 8mm Allen head fasteners. Keep bolts and any grommets or seals together for inspection.
9
Remove right valve cover
Carefully lift the right valve cover straight up off the cylinder head. If the cover is stuck, use the same gentle removal technique as the left side. The right side may require maneuvering around additional engine bay components. Set the cover aside with the gasket side facing up.
10
Clean gasket surfaces - Cylinder heads
Using a wire brush or gasket scraper, carefully remove all old gasket material from both cylinder head mating surfaces. Take extreme care not to gouge or scratch the aluminum surfaces. Use brake cleaner and clean shop rags to remove all residue and oil. The surfaces must be completely clean and dry for proper gasket sealing.
11
Clean gasket surfaces - Valve covers
Remove all old gasket material from the sealing surface of both valve covers using a gasket scraper. Clean thoroughly with brake cleaner and inspect for any cracks, warping, or damage. If covers are warped or damaged, replacement is necessary. Clean the bolt holes and surrounding areas.
12
Install new gaskets and prepare for installation
Install the new left and right valve cover gaskets onto the valve covers. The gaskets typically have locating tabs or beads that fit into grooves in the valve cover to hold them in place. Ensure gaskets are seated properly and completely around the entire perimeter. Install new bolt grommets/seals onto each valve cover bolt if included with gasket kit.
13
Install right valve cover
Carefully lower the right valve cover with new gasket onto the cylinder head, ensuring proper alignment with all bolt holes. Insert all valve cover bolts finger-tight first to ensure proper positioning. Torque the bolts in a crisscross pattern from the center outward to 105 inch-lbs. Do not overtighten as this can damage the gasket or warp the cover.
14
Install left valve cover
Carefully lower the left valve cover with new gasket onto the cylinder head, ensuring proper alignment with all bolt holes. Insert all valve cover bolts finger-tight first. Torque the bolts in a crisscross pattern from the center outward to 105 inch-lbs. Ensure even pressure distribution across the entire gasket.
15
Reconnect PCV and breather hoses
Reconnect the PCV and breather hoses to both valve covers in their original positions. Ensure all connections are secure and hoses are properly routed without kinks or stress points.
16
Reinstall wiring harness brackets
Reinstall all wiring harness brackets and clips to the valve covers and surrounding mounting points. Route harnesses as noted during removal and secure all fasteners. Ensure no harnesses are pinched or under excessive tension.
17
Reinstall ignition coils - Right bank
Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the inside of each ignition coil boot. Install each coil into its corresponding spark plug tube on the right valve cover, ensuring it seats fully. Install and tighten the mounting bolt for each coil. Reconnect the electrical connector to each coil until it clicks into place.
18
Reinstall ignition coils - Left bank
Apply dielectric grease to each ignition coil boot. Install each coil into its corresponding spark plug tube on the left valve cover, ensuring proper seating. Install and tighten the mounting bolt for each coil. Reconnect the electrical connector to each coil until it clicks into place.
19
Reinstall air intake components
Reinstall the air filter housing assembly and reconnect all vacuum lines and sensors. Connect the air intake tube to the throttle body and secure all clamps. Ensure all connections are tight and properly seated.
20
Final connections and checks
Reconnect the negative battery cable. Reinstall the engine cover if equipped. Inspect the entire engine bay to ensure all components are properly installed, all fasteners are tight, and no tools or parts have been left in the engine bay.

Reassembly

Torque all valve cover bolts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even gasket compression and prevent leaks.
Ensure all ignition coil electrical connectors are fully seated and locked in place.
Double-check that all wiring harnesses are properly routed and secured away from hot exhaust components.

Verification

Start the engine and allow it to idle for several minutes while observing both valve covers for any signs of oil leakage.
Check for proper engine operation with no misfires or rough idle conditions.
After the engine reaches operating temperature, shut it off and inspect valve cover areas again for leaks once cool.
Perform a test drive and re-inspect valve cover gasket areas after the vehicle has cooled completely.

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