Valve cover gasket - sealant question

[VSX72]

Hey guys,

I need to replace the infamous valve cover gasket. I've read a few DIY articles from A4mods.com, here, and Audiworld. All of them included using sealant. However, when I went to the dealership and bought the valve cover gasket, they said it does not come with sealant nor do they sell sealant for valve cover gaskets. Also, I've heard from two people who worked on Audi's before that I don't need the sealant.

Can some of you guys clarify this up? I'm leaning towards using sealant but I would feel much better if I heard some opinions on this.

Thanks in advance!

[stormscr3]

I'm about to do the same thing. How much were they from the stealership? ... I feel either use the gaskets with no sealant or maybe some, or use just sealant. Sealant meaning gasket maker from autozone.

[VSX72]

I'm about to do the same thing. How much were they from the stealership? ... I feel either use the gaskets with no sealant or maybe some, or use just sealant. Sealant meaning gasket maker from autozone.

The valve cover gasket is actually pretty cheap. I think it is like $35 from the dealership and my friend was able to get it at a little discount so I think it came out to $25-27.

[teg2audi]

I know Audi's are a little "special" when it comes to repairs but whenever i've done valve gaskets on other makes i just use the generic sealant they sell at Napa.

[dirtybrd]

Permatex gray at any transition points.

[old guy]

Just put a dab of high-temp RTV silicone gasket sealant in the corners where the gasket makes a right angle turn. This helps reduce the likelihood of leaking at the corners. You can pick up a ½ ounce tube of Permatex Hi-Temp RTV Silicone Gasket Sealant for about $3 at Autozone.

Edit: Damnit!!! You beat me again. I have to stop typing so much.

[dirtybrd]

I have nothing else to do. I'm on here almost all day honing my skills!

[stormscr3]

I have nothing else to do. I'm on here almost all day honing my skills!

Ha - and thanks for the info on prices

[martini]

i just used the RTV