Cam Gasket replacement

Technical Area Engine, Transmission, Exhaust etc
1

I’m going to replace my cam cover gasket with a genuine Mazda one in my mk1 Mx5, I’m just after advice I’m
Looking for a better photo than the one I have on where to place the high temp silicone, any pointers from anyone would be most helpful. I’m also looking to purchase and use a torque wrench to replace the bolts to the correct lbs

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2

When I did mine four years ago, I recall putting the K2 silicone sealant all the way round the cam outer edge, not just as spots in specific locations.

I also did the CAS O-Ring at the same time since it was leaking oil, which in turn was causing smoke in the passenger footwell :slight_smile:

I too bought a torque wrench for the job, as I’d never used one before and I trusted the eBay auctions information (which said that it was impossible to over-tighten the bolt/nut as the wrench had a feature that wouldn’t allow it to tighten past the setting) I managed to shear one of the cam cover bolts and had to use vise grips to remove the stud carefully and buy a new bolt - so make sure not to do that :smiley:

3

Thanks for info yes I’ve never used a torque wrench so I’ll look around to purchase one thanks again for info

4

I trust you’ve read this along with the seeing the picture?

https://www.miata.net/garage/valvecover/index.html

I did this job on my Mk1, it explains where to place the silicone (small blobs) it is a very small amount just to seal where the gasket may not completely compress.:+1:
The torque wrench, I didn’t use one. Tighten evenly the bolts in the sequence shown. When you get to the point of resistance upon evenly tightening down each bolt in the order shown I used two finger pressure on the bar connected to my socket for the final torque pressure.
I read that somewhere on one of these forums, it worked for me and definitely no leaks afterwards.

5

Thanks mick that’s a great write up I will change mine next week thanks

6

Hi mick I’ve just replaced the cam gasket,I followed instructions I haven’t started the car yet should I leave it a day for it to settle with the bits of gasket sealant applied or just go for it lol? I didn’t have a torque wrench I just tightened like you said two finger on bar

7

I can just tell you what I did, I let the sealant set, others may have a different view. So a few hours should do it, better overnight :+1:

Do check the tightness of the cam cover bolts again (when cool) after the initially getting the engine up to temp. You might find the odd one needs nipping up maybe an half turn, same method. Check obviously for any signs of leakage.

8

Thanks mick yeah I’ll leave it overnight and try tomorrow fingers crossed :crossed_fingers:

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9

All done no leaks mick

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