RTV with valve cover.

[Lurker-454351]

It leaks around number 6, and around 4. The two most common leaking spots. The valve cover should not be cracked. I tried to tighten them down around 4 and they were pretty snug. I didn't try on the rear bolts though. I will check them out though.

I’ve done now 5 valve cover gaskets this way. And so far 100% success.
take 4 and 6 valve cover bolts out. Fill the hole with black rtv. Really force it in the holes. Then put the bolts back. If you can get the Ferrul out with the bolt it is even better. This works as a plunger to get the rtv forced into Any cracks etc. you can even feel it on the underside of the valve cover squishing out if you do it right.
torque the bolts back down.
then wait at least 24 hrs before driving.

I have put 35,000 miles on an e46 after doing this and over 50,000 on an E90. Zero leaks.
The valve cover leaks in these spots because it cracks. Not the gasket. Typically. Rtv is a wonderful product if you use it correctly.