ok, i've been working at this for a good while now, but this d*** thing won't give. i remove the spark plugs, unscrewed the five bolts, i'm basically lost now.. whats going on. can i get some help?

 

what are you doing that you need the valve cover off for? Just curious because I just had to replace my headgasket.

OK, here's some tips for ya. You're on the right track, but after you've unscrewed the five bolts, pull them up as far as you can so that way the bolt isn't touching the holes it screws into. This can cause some sticking if you're not pulling it straight off. Next, using a large flatblade screwdriver or something similar, pry between the timing gear cover and the valve cover. This should get it right off of there. Also, did you undo the ventilation hose and ground wire (if applicable)

 

what he said^^^^

 

i'm going to paint it if i can get the thing off.

 

You don't have to take the spark plugs out... they're not holding it down. But anyways, make sure you have all the bolts, I think there's 5 but I'm not very sure... I would say don't use a screwdrive if you want to reuse the gasket. just pull on the thing, it'll come off eventually. Smack it around a little, I'm sure you can handle that.

 

make sure u get a new valve cover gasket

 

rubber hammer might be your friend this time.