How often does it need to be changed? After almost 2 years (and around 15,000 miles?) since the TB change and the SC install, I seem to be getting some oil leakage around the valve cover.

Is this "normal"?

 

I would help but I seem to suck at vavle cover gaskets on a miata. I've done plenty on every other car on earth, but the one on the mazda just always starts leaking after a couple months.

It shouldn't be normal.

 

gotta make sure to put the rtv on the 6 90* corners

 

really? I didn't rtv mine when I changed valve covers 6 months ago. and I reused my old gasket, which is likely original. but it felt nice n squishy, and I don't see evidence of leakage. though my poor girl doesn't get driven as much as she should.

i wouldn't be concerned with a little crusty dribble coming from the vc. not hurtin nuthin, and IMO not worth the cost and effort of gasket replacement, since there's no hazard or potential issue, other than a slightly less pretty engine. others who are more ---- about that cosmetic type thing will assuredly disagree.

 

mazda suggests it, comes that way from that factory.

 

As long as the only drawback is a less pretty engine, I'll just wait.

I am wondering though if running almost 12 PSI of boost accelerates the VC from leaking?