Suggestions on lifting a stubborn valve cover?

[Chrisrich]

The previous owner had used so much sealant around this valve cover that I can't get to to budge. Is there any special (non-distructive) technique I should know about? I could put an engine hoist above it or course, but where and how to grab it?

Thanks!

chris

[cliveyboy]

Chris
My suggestion would be to get a bit of piano wire and wrap it around two bits of wood and try and use it a bit like a cheese cutter. You are less likely to damage the sealing face than using the screwdriver method

Clive.

[oldokie]

Clive has the right idea but I use a guitar string, .010 high E. Any good music store will sell you one at a time because serious pickers like to mix gauges.

[Chrisrich]

VERY interesting. I happen to have a .010 guage string 5 feet away. How convenient. What do you think: just wrap it around two dowels, place it in the joint and pull?

[1964 S1]

Yes, I think you've got the right idea. Also, when you come to areas where the wire hangs up or can't cut through, try a single edged razor blade or matt knife, eventually the cover will be loose enough to pry off. but avoid using a screwdriver until you're sure it won't damage either surface.

[lotusanglia1965]

Miles Wilkins recommends "shoving" a big screwdriver through the cork gasket at the rear on the bridge part of the cover,where no oil leaks can occur. seems logical to me,less hassle too!

[Chrisrich]

Eureka.

A combination of the former and the later did the trick.

The drama continues.

Thanks, fellows.

Chris