Gasket question

[mad4106]

I took the valve cover off to see if the timing chain was loose cause its making an unusual noise when revved up and it's near the top of motor I have a cosmetic gasket set on the motor when I did the 440 build can I leave that gasket on or do I have to put a new one back on since I took the valve cover off I'm new to messing with my motor myself?

[dxcody]

As long as the gasket isn't damaged.. You are fine.

Many people don't know, but yiu can actually reuse a headgasket if it is one of the metal ones.

I had a few guys telling me about it when I blew mine the night before the ironman.

Just repaint the gasket with like Grill paint.

But only in a situation where you really need to just get it running again.

[DragonGunner]

Had mine off dozens of times....still same one, it leaks a couple places, I juts put a a little gasket sealer on it and its good to go.

[drillteamleader]

Yes you can reuse cometics. Go to the auto parts store and get some copper coat. It is in a spray can like paint in the gasket sealer section.