1980 kz1000 ltd. b4: valve cover installation

Got everything clean. Getting ready to put the valve cover back on. Around the cam ends should I use the red RTV gasket maker or black silicone adhesive sealant (both from Permatex)? I'm using the valve gasket from Z1.

If you removed the rubber half moon cam end plugs, don't try to reuse them. Throw them away and replace them. Any sealer works probably, but silicon would be my last choice.

If you do reuse them, here's how to keep them from leaking:

1) Clean the head very well to get off all the old sealer (razor blade works well)

2) Clean the end plugs very well with acetone. If there is any oil on them, they won't seal.

3) Apply a thin layer of ultra black high temp gasket sealer (auto zone or Kragens has it) to the head surface that mates with the plug and the curved face of the plug.

www.amazon.com/Permatex-82180-Ultra-Black-Temp/dp/B0002UEN1U

4) Install plugs lightly and use a straight edge like a popsicle stick to gently level the top of the plug with the head surface. LET DRY OVER NIGHT.

5) Run a bead of the sealer at least over the plugs and a couple inches either side. Run a thin bead all the way around if you don't want it to leak.

6) Lay gasket and cover on and install the bolts ONLY FINGER TIGHT. Just tight enough to get the sealer flattened, not tight enough to squeeze it all out.

7) In an hour, finger tightemn the bolts a little more (as tight as you can turn just a socket with fingers).

Let dry overninght. Then tighten cover bolts to about 60 - 70 Inch pounds or by feel. I use a small wrench with a 3" handle so I don't overcrank.