Hi,

Looking for some answers please if anyone knows:

I notice that familiar old engine basting in oil smell, from the 3500 engine with about 120k miles, 07 Monte Carlo stock.
So it seems the valve covers need new gaskets.

I have some Q's please:

1. I'm assuming these gaskets are typically due to be changed at this age and miles? Or is this unusual and I should get some UV dye and add to the engine oil and go hunting leaks?

2. How difficult is it on this engine to replace the gaskets?

3. I see on Amazon, Fel-Pro offers a kit VS 50442. But it doesn't come with grommets. Do I need grommets? Their separate grommets kit is ES 71044..
Alternatively e-bay has a brand "Aftermarket Products" kit which includes the grommets.
So....?

4.Anything else I need to know on this subject for this car?


Thank you much

Jim

 

I dunno much about the 3500, but Id avoid buying off brand gaskets from eBay. Nothing is more frustrating than doing a job only to have to do it again soon because cheap replacement parts failed.

I'd lean towards fel pro as theyre a reputable brand or ac delco stock replacements (as theyve clearly lasted a long time given the vehicles age before failure).

 

I am not familiar with the 3500 (other than I believe it is based off the 3100/3400 block and design). But these are valve covers. I agree with Bumpin', stick with name brand gaskets. I would also recommend new grommets. Not a requirement, but they help seal around the bolt holes on the valve covers. You old ones are, well, old. The material has been heated/cooled and compressed for a lot of miles and years. Do your best to do the job once and be done.