valve cover grommet (spark plug cavity)

[slappies]

Removed my valve cover today for painting and noticed some deterioration on one of the gromets attached to the underside of the head where the spark plugs would go through. When i tried to remove it it has split, and even now still wont come out it seems glued on.

Is this usually a replaceable part or did i just wreck the valve cover, and is it normal for it to be glued?

http://i55.tinypic.com/11gizcx.jpg

p.s. its a jdm d15b vtec, if it is replaceable would i just get the washer that fits a d16zc?

thanks

[bennjamin]

tap it out with a small flat head screwdriver....over time oil has reacted with the plastic/rubber grommet and hardened it. Take it out , then clean then replace with a new part. Fairly sure all D series and B series share the same grommets.

[dougie_504]

Cost about $10-20 each from Honda.

[slappies]

ah ok thanks for input.

yeah tried jimmying them out with a flathead but they've either melted or been glued with something strong in there. reckon its safe to use some type of solvent to try and dissolve them out? or could it damage the metal rim

[Urabunchamupets]

its probably being held on by some sort of gasket sealer. As far as i know solvents wont harm the valve cover. Maybe try a razor blade to get the rubber off and then some carb cleaner to clean up the surface

[dougie_504]

Yeah just cut or pry them out with the flathead. Valve cover should be pretty tough

[slappies]

thanks yeah ill give it a go

[slappies]

so yeah realised the metal ring was part of the seal so they came out fine once i figured that. just having some trouble sourcing new ones, anyone know if honda service centres would stock these or would they have to be ordered in?

repco ordered some for me from sydney but they were completely the wrong part, guess rather go with oem parts to ensure they fit right

[dougie_504]

Yeah any Honda service centre - from the spare parts counter.

[grifty]

repco and supercheap are hopeless, Bursons should be able to help you out.