How to Change a Valve Cover Gasket on a 2.2L Chevrolet S10

by Kyle McBride
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Chevrolet equipped its S-10 trucks with a 2.2-liter, overhead-valve engine. Valve-train components such as the upper push-rods, valve rockers, valve stems and springs are mounted to the top of the head and covered by the valve (rocker arm) cover. Oil, which is pumped up to the rocker arm compartment by the oil pump, lubricates the engine then drains back down to the oil pan. Poor sealing at the rocker cover gasket causes oil leaks that will necessitate gasket replacement to rectify.

Removal

Step 1

Open the hood. Allow the engine to cool completely.

Step 2

Loosen the clamps holding the air cleaner duct assembly to the intake hose with a screwdriver. Separate the duct and lift it out of the engine compartment.

Step 3

Grasp the throttle cable at the cable support bracket located near the throttle. Pull up on the cable to unsnap it from the bracket.

Step 4

Pull the brake booster hose off its nipple on the top of the rocker cover. Pull the positive crankcase ventilation valve from the front, inside edge of the rocker box.

Step 5

Remove the rocker cover bolts with a ratchet and socket. Lift the rocker cover off the engine. Remove the old gasket from the engine and cover with a gasket scraper.

Step 6

Wipe any sludge or residue from the rocker cover and its mating surface on the engine with a shop rag. Inspect the flange on the rocker cover for distortion or damage. Replace it if necessary.

Installation

Step 1

Place the new gasket into the groove in the top of the engine. Position the rocker cover on top of the engine and start the bolts by hand.

Step 2

Tighten the rocker cover bolts using a cross pattern. Torque the rocker cover bolts to 89 inch-pounds with a 1/4-inch torque wrench and a socket.

Step 3

Insert the PCV valve into the rocker cover. Install the brake booster hose onto its nipple. Snap the throttle cable into the support bracket by hand.

Step 4

Position the air duct in the engine compartment. Slide the air hose onto the duct and tighten the clamp with a screwdriver.

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