im planning on removing my valve cover on my 2006 lancer oz so that i can paint it (chrome purple!!), and i wanted to know if i have to replace my gasket or anything or if i can just simply take it off, paint it, and put it back on. If anyone has tips or suggestions on painting and removing a valve cover, any help would be greatly appreciated. thanks!

ps. i tried doing some research on my gasket question but i couldnt find anything..maybe im blind i dont know

 

Anytime you open anything up like the valve cover, then you're better off replacing the gasket. You'd be risking it not to. As for painting, take your time during the sanding process to make sure the paint has a good base to stick to. If not, you'll find yourself starting all over again.

 

x2 it's better to be safe then sorry

 

I never changed mine and it leaked oil during boost I tightened it down even more which fixed the.problem but here is something to remember if you take off a gasket replace it never reuse. I'm about to change mine soon.

 

A lot of times you can actually reuse a gasket. Mainly depends on the type of gasket, condition of the gasket, condition of mating surfaces.