Cam cover gasket replacement.

[Red Wedge]

I need to tackle changing my leaky cam cover gasket and just wanted to be fully prepared before doing so.

Are there any hidden horrors or issues I may run into while doing it or is it as simple as removing the cam cover, throttle bracket and cam belt cover to get at it?

[kaiowas]

It's pretty straightforward although actually getting the camcovers off can be a bit tricky if you haven't done it before.

Once you've undone the chrome dome nuts you'll find that the rubberised washer things will probably be quite well stuck in place due to a combination of age and exposure to heat. The covers won't lift off until you got those off, I usually use a screwdriver to lift the washers a little then unwind them off the thread by hand. Then once they're all off the cover will probably still be stuck. A tap on the side with a rubber mallet should knock them loose though.

[Red Wedge]

Good tip.

Can I get replacements for these and is it worth replacing them?

[boondougal]

Yep, replace them. you can get them Mr T

[Red Wedge]

One last question. Is it worth using gasket sealant or is just replacing the failed gasket enough without going overboard?

[Donato]

Replacing it with an OEM gasket will do the trick. Get an OEM one from Toyota

[Red Wedge]

I've already got the gaskets but they're not OEM

Is there a big difference in quality?

[kaiowas]

According to the bgb you are supposed to put a small dab of sealant in the corners either side of the cam caps but I've never bothered and it's not been a problem