Valve Cover removal question

I want to retorque the cylinder head bolts, and to do that I have to remove the valve covers to get clearance. I was wondering if I would have to replace the valve cover gaskets if I removed them or if I could just reuse them.

That depends on how the old gasket was put on. I polish the cover and head surface, then use anti-seize on the gasket. I can reuse the gasket 4 or 5 times that way. It comes off like brand new.

I don't know what motor we are talking about, but if it's a motor with hyvo cam chain (with chain guide in the valve cover), remember to release the timing-chain tensioner before putting the valve cover back on. If you don't, you can break the chain, or tensioner, or guides.

My bike is a 1983 kz750n2 shaft. Not sure if it has a chain guide in the valve cover. I got the manual though so I'll check.

No need to remove anything to torque the head, all 12 14mm head bolts can all be easily accessed.

Valve cover doesn't need to be removed, but you will need to remove the tank and possibly the coils.

I was looking at it last night and it looked like the valve covers blocked some of the head bolts...but after looking at it in some light, you guys are right, they made holes so that you can access them. Tanks is actually off already. Man that just saved me a lot of time.

I've read/heard that spraying new valve cover gaskets with non stick cooking spray(like PAM) will do the same thing.

Should I loosen all the head bolts first before retorquing them to possibly avoid overtightening?

Yes, just barely loosen them, then torque to spec.