Valave cover gasket replacement

[Wilkechr]

Hey yall I'm about to replace the valve cover gaskets on my 2008 5.7 dodge ram. I was just wondering what should I look at while the covers are off I routinely change my own oil as I work at an auto center but I don't know much about what's under the valve cover. Is it safe to clean while under there? And what should I use? Any tips would be greatly appreciated

 

[jws123]

Before you remove valve covers blow off the entire area with compressed air so you dont get dirt inside engine ect not much to see however it will give you a good idea how clean your engine is if it has sludge or not.

 

[Wilkechr]

Thank you sir for responding

 

[aszumilo]

Inspect things like the valve springs and related parts.

 

[CanuckRam1313]

I would personally use Simple Green concentrated spray bottle and do a full engine degrease before any work.

Then ensure all is dry, and then remove the valve covers.

this way you can be assured there is little to no chance if introducing any contaminants into the system when the tear-down begins.