Leaky Valve Cover

[madmax]

I have a 1989 2wd, 2.5L Comanche that runs well, but have a problem with the oil leaking out of the valve cover. I have replaced the gasket, but still have same problem. I have been heard two different things: (1) maybe the plastic valve cover should be replaced, and (2) that there is a fix that can be done which involves adding some additional studs to the head so that the valve cover can be secured more tightly to the head. Would like to know how others have addressed this problem. Thanks in advance!

[87Warrior]

My cure for the leaky 2.5 L valve cover as found by another member:

- Find aluminum valve cover for the 2.5

- Install aluminum valve cover with a Felpro permadry gasket for a '98 Dakota 2.5L

- Torque valve cover bolts in a spiral pattern starting in the middle

[Comanche_on_a_budget]

Is the aluminum cover a junkyard find or something I need to get at summit or equivalent to that store? I have the same issue, thanks!

[87Warrior]

The aluminum valve cover can be found on 2.5L, 1991+ Jeeps. Some have reported finding one on older motors as well.

 

I am not sure, but I would suspect the 2.5L Dakota valve cover is aluminum and would work. After all, the gasket works perfect on our Jeeps.

[Comanche_on_a_budget]

Awesome, thank you very much

[madmax]

Thanks for the help!!

[madmax]

After reading the post about using a 1991+ valve cover, I found one on Ebay that was supposed to be off a Wrangler. However, looking closely at the cover and comparing it to the covers for other 2.5L engines (both comanches and wranglers) it appeared to have a different bolt pattern. After further research, I think the cover on Ebay was from a 1993 Dakota 2.5L and definitely has a different bolt pattern. In view of that fact, I don't see how the Dakota 2.5L gasket could work. Would appreciate others chiming in on this issue.

[87Warrior]

Any chance the one you found is for a 2.4L?

 

The Jeep 2.5L long block didn't really change from inception to demise.

[Guest]

Brett's right; the 2.5 from a Dakota is an AMC design; which the Wranglers, Cherokees, Comanches and the Dodge Dakota's got.

 

I've inspected the top end of a newer 2.5 to an older 2.5; there is no difference other than fuel injection, and possibly the layout of a few things.

[madmax]

I noticed that on the later model cover, there was only one grommeted hole for a vent hose, but on the earlier covers (like mine) there are two such holes (in addition to the oil fill hole). Don't know if that fact would preclude use of a later cover on an earlier engine. Hate to risk buying a metal cover only to find out later that it won't work on the earlier engines. Oh well.....