Alright, I can't get them out. Whats the secret?

Blake

 

Years ago, you could actually "unscrew" them. On modern day plugs, these rings are a very tight fit. You probably won't be able to get them off intact. Why do you need them off?

 

What exactly are you trying to remove? ..and why?

 

Blake is trying to remove the black rubber gaskets on the valve cover that seat the spark plugs and prevent oil from splashing up through the threads on the plugs. He wants to do this so he can have the valve cover powdercoated. I'm inclined to go with xviper on this one and take a set of pliers to the gaskets and tear them off. I'm sure they won't cost very much to replace.

Matt

 

Doesn't quite work, as Matt will tell you now. I'm been at it, but I can't get the entire gasket out.

Blake

 

why do you need to remove them?

 

So they won't melt while the cover is being baked.

Blake

 

what kind of powder they using? Epoxy, Polyester, a smooth blend ?
I would think they need to mask off all the inside shit anyways and those gaskets can handle the underhood temps.
Find out what kind of powder they'll be shooting or better yet just ask them the cure temp they plan to use and decide from there.
Good Luck!

 

I'm sorry, I misunderstood your original question. I thought you were trying the remove the crush ring off a spark plug. Some people call these things "gaskets".
Now that I know what you are talking about, I recall in the Helm manual that these gaskets you're talking about is a pressure fit. You have to pry them out with a screwdriver or some other kind of "pick". It sits inside a sort of "pocket". The chances of getting them out in tact is almost 50/50. It's like prying out the rubber gasket out of a water facet valve (if you've ever done one of those).

 

I got Austin_S2000 to come over and help. The manual is a bit confusing on the matter, but we figured it out. I was expecting to have to replace them anyways.

RT, I chose a Polyester from Tiger paints I believe. I'm pretty sure the curing isn't the problem. Just the baking before the painting to help remove the imperfections in the metal to prevent outgassing.

If any of you want a valve cover powdercoated, send me a PM! (Shameless plug...)

Blake