← Back Jenbacher 261748 Rocker Arm

This flat gasket, typically made from a specialized high-heat resistant elastomer (such as Viton), is placed between the top of the cylinder head and its metal cover. Its sole function is sealing: it must prevent the lubricating oil, which is sprayed under pressure to lubricate the rocker arms, valve springs, and rotocaps (like the 274054 we looked at earlier), from leaking out of the engine.

Keeping this gasket in perfect condition is crucial not only for engine cleanliness and oil conservation but, most importantly, for safety. An oil leak from the rocker cover could drip onto the glowing-hot exhaust manifolds, posing a serious fire hazard. Since this component is subject to permanent "compression set" and thermal hardening, it must be replaced every time the cover is removed for valve clearance adjustments or deeper maintenance tasks.