1998 Cadillac Catera Valve Cover Gasket Leak Fix

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RICHARD LAPA
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  • 1 POST
I have a 1998 cadillac catera that is leaking oil slightly from the valve cover gaskets. The dealer quoted me a price of $595 to replace them. This seems like alot for valve cover gaskets. Is this a repair that an average saturday mechanic can handle?

Thanx
Mar 2, 2006 at 3:21 AM
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MVANNESSJR
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 223 POSTS
The gaskets are fairly cheap in cost, it's the labor that you are really paying for here. It's not exactly a hard job, just requires some knowledge of the engine and removal of the valve covers. May require some sanding to completely remove the old gasket giving it a smooth and level surface (blowing out the valves to keep out any shavings) and replacing the gasket. Proper pressure along the entire valve to ensure a proper seal.
Mar 2, 2006 at 7:02 PM
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Suggested Repair

Valve cover gaskets are inexpensive; most of the cost is labor. A knowledgeable DIY mechanic can replace them by removing the valve covers, fully cleaning off the old gasket so the surface is smooth and level while keeping debris out of the valves, installing new gaskets, and applying even pressure along the cover for a proper seal.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1998 Cadillac Catera reported a slight oil leak from the valve cover gaskets, questioned a $595 dealer quote, and asked whether a weekend mechanic could do the job. The expert said the gaskets are cheap and the quote is mostly labor. The job is not especially hard but needs some engine knowledge: remove the covers, clean the old gasket material for a smooth level surface, keep debris out of the valves, install the new gaskets, and apply even pressure for a proper seal.

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