RTV not gasket on newer BS valve cover.

[Elkins45]

My newish 20 HP V twin developed a hard start this spring and I traced it to a crack in the vacuum tube powering the fuel pump. When I removed the valve cover to replace it I discovered that there was no gasket, just a bead of sealant. I was in a hurry so I just bolted it back on and started mowing after replacing the tube and everything ran fine. Now I’m wondering if I should go back and scrape the old stuff off and make a replacement gasket from sheet gasket material?

My assumption is that any vacuum leak would mean that debris is being sucked into the valve space and that’s not good, but I’m also thinking that if there’s a vacuum leak then there should also be an oil leak while it’s running and that’s will reveal itself soon. Would you reseal it or just leave well enough alone?

 

[ILENGINE]

If not leaking than I wouldn't mess with it. If it starts leaking then you can take care of the issue. You can make a new gasket if you want, but if done properly the rtv sealant works well also.

 

[andrewslarge]

If it ain’t broke, I don’t fix it.
You probably got lucky and if no leaks then keep on going with regular oil changes and clean air filter.

 

[Auto Doc's]

If it starts leaking oil, then worry about it then.

When you do have to reseal it, clean the surfaces well and use only regular RTV because "Ultra" RTV will hold the valve covers too well and you will damage them trying to get them off again in the future.

 

[StarTech]

If it starts leaking oil, then worry about it then.

When you do have to reseal it, clean the surfaces well and use only regular RTV because "Ultra" RTV will hold the valve covers too well and you will damage them trying to get them off again in the future.

If you know how to get them off the Ultra RTV isn't that hard to get off. And when applying RTV its finger tight over night and then torque to spec. Also you do not start the engine during this time as when oil hits the RTV it will not cure properly.