Tools You'll Need:
* Socket set: Various sizes, including metric.
* Wrench set: Both metric and potentially SAE, depending on your car.
* Ratchet and extensions: To reach tight spots.
* Valve cover gasket: Get a high-quality replacement. Don't skimp here.
* New valve cover bolts (recommended): They can strip easily, and replacing them ensures a proper seal.
* Clean rags or shop towels: Lots of them!
* A putty knife or plastic scraper: For carefully removing old gasket material.
* Brake cleaner or engine degreaser: To clean the valve cover and engine mating surfaces.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening the bolts to the correct specification.
* Jack and jack stands (highly recommended): Makes access much easier.
* Gloves: Protect your hands.
* Safety glasses: Protect your eyes.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. This prevents accidental shorts and protects your electrical system. Use jack stands to safely lift the car.
2. Locate the Valve Cover: The valve cover is on top of the engine. It's usually a fairly large, rectangular component.
3. Remove Related Components: This step varies depending on your specific engine, but you'll likely need to:
* Disconnect the PCV valve hose(s).
* Disconnect any electrical connectors attached to the valve cover. Carefully note their locations before disconnecting.
* Remove the coil pack (if applicable) and ignition wires (if necessary), securing them safely out of the way.
* Remove the spark plug wires.
4. Remove the Valve Cover Bolts: Carefully remove the valve cover bolts using the appropriate socket. Keep track of where each bolt came from as some might be different lengths.
5. Remove the Valve Cover: Gently lift off the valve cover. It might be stuck due to old gasket material. Use a putty knife or plastic scraper to carefully remove any residual gasket material from both the valve cover and the cylinder head. Do not use metal tools that could scratch the surfaces.
6. Clean the Surfaces: Thoroughly clean both the valve cover and the cylinder head mating surfaces with brake cleaner or engine degreaser. Remove all traces of old gasket material. Let the surfaces dry completely.
7. Install the New Gasket: Carefully align the new gasket with the valve cover and cylinder head. Make sure it's seated properly.
8. Install the Valve Cover: Carefully lower the valve cover onto the cylinder head, ensuring the gasket is properly seated.
9. Install the Valve Cover Bolts: Replace the valve cover bolts. Tighten them in a crisscross pattern, starting in the middle and working your way outwards. Use a torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer's specified torque. This is crucial to prevent leaks and damage. Consult your repair manual for the correct torque specification.
10. Reconnect Components: Reconnect all the components you removed earlier (PCV hoses, electrical connectors, coil pack, spark plug wires, etc.) in the reverse order of removal.
11. Reconnecting the battery: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
12. Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check carefully for any leaks around the valve cover.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: This is essential. It will provide specific instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams for your exact vehicle.
* Cleanliness: Cleanliness is key to preventing leaks. Thoroughly clean the surfaces before installing the new gasket.
* Torque Specification: Using the correct torque is critical. Over-tightening can strip the bolts or crack the valve cover. Under-tightening will lead to leaks.
This is a general guideline; always refer to a repair manual specific to your 1998 Chevy Cavalier 2.2L for detailed instructions and torque specifications. If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take it to a qualified mechanic. Improper repair can lead to serious engine damage.
