To remove and install the Valve Cover, the first step is to wipe around the top to prevent dirt from entering the spark plug tubes or the engine itself. Then, the high tension leads are disconnect from the spark plugs. Always pull on the rubber boot, not the actual lead or wire to avoid damage to the lead. For the 1.8 litre models, remove the two retaining bolts which hold the coil packs in place. For the 2.4 litre models, pull the wiring from each coil pack to disconnect it, before removing the bolts and lifting out each coil from the engine. Next, remove the PCV hose from the Valve Cover and remove the retaining bolts and withdraw the Valve Cover and discard the gasket. If the Valve Cover is tight on the
Cylinder Head due to the spark plug tube seals, slide a flat bladed screwdriver wrapped in cloth between Valve Cover and cylinder head. Before fitting, give the Valve Cover a good clean in solvent. Also check that the gasket face isn't distorted or cracked. Repair or renew if necessary. Inspect the spark plug tube seals on your 1.8, 2.0 and 2.4 litre models and renew any found excessively hard, soft or damaged. You need to install a new gasket and torque the Valve Cover retaining bolts in sequence to a specified torque. Next, attach the spark plug leads and reconnect the PCV hose to the Valve Cover. To conclude, start the engine and look for leaks around the Valve Cover.