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Stuck valve cover

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Blake Wester
(@blake-wester)
Posts: 38
Trusted Member Customer Registered
Topic starter
 
[#3276]

Hey guys, have any of you had any issues with a stuck valve cover? Looks like previous owner used some kind of sealant. I’ve been trying for two hours now, using wooden wedges but nothing. Just a little gap. I can’t figure out the problem! 


 
Posted : 03/21/2026 10:06
Blake Wester
(@blake-wester)
Posts: 38
Trusted Member Customer Registered
Topic starter
 

Never mind. Clymer said there is just the nut. Now I see the other two. I feel so stupid and now I have a mess. Ugh.


 
Posted : 03/21/2026 10:29
Rick Schroeder
(@red-horse)
Posts: 62
Trusted Member
 

Good to hear you found the "problem". If you have been using a bit of force to separate the cover from the cylinder head, i'd check to see if there are any chips or gouges in either the cover or head.  I see a hammer and knife in your picture.  If there are kicks or scores, get some 600-1000 grit emery paper and try to clean them up or you may have a drip of oil.  I'm sure you'll replace the gasket between the cover and head.  Love those hidden 10 mm nuts. 


 
Posted : 03/22/2026 10:35
Richard W
(@wobbly)
Posts: 2729
Member
 

In my experience it's the after-market gaskets that do all the leaking. The OEM gaskets have some type of invisible sealant applied that negates the need for additional goop. And they can be reused several times. Add 8 factory gaskets to your next parts order and enjoy having some "back up". 


Owning an old Airhead is easy.
Keeping an old Airhead running great is the true test.

 
Posted : 03/23/2026 06:03

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