2.5i Valve Cover Gasket/Seal

Looks like I need to replace the valve cover gaskets/seals on my 08 2.5i SOHC Legacy. Head gaskets look good but it is leaking oil from what looks like the #4

spark plug. Can the valve cover be removed easily so the seals can be replaced?

Yes, it's not too bad. There is not a lot of room to work because of the engine layout. Don't re-use old gaskets. You will need a kit with new valve cover gaskets & spark plug tube seals, also a tube of high-temp RTV sealant. The factory suggest Fujibond but you can use something like Permatex Ultra Grey.

 

Check out vacation pix for more info.

 

http://legacygt.com/forums/showthread.php/vacation-pix-171435.html

Seems to be easy enough. Any thread links to useful details on the procedure is appreciated...

It's a lot harder than it looks if you don't raise the engine a little. I would never attempt the job again with the engine sitting as is in the engine bay. The passenger side is doable, but the driver side was a nightmare. Also try to clean off any sand from on top of the valve cover area before removing the covers.

 

Some more thoughts from when I did mine back in 2013.

http://legacygt.com/forums/showthread.php/felpro-50561-vc-gasket-advance-auto-202755.html?t=202755

I found a post from GEE-OTTO that contains some good tips for doing this job. He recommends using the Subaru OEM seals and gaskets and jacking the engine to get easier access. Unfortunately, the photos got messed up by the Photobucket changes. Still a lot of good info.

 

http://legacygt.com/forums/showthread.php/valve-cover-and-plug-tube-seal-guide-206386.html