Has anyone replaced the caps (it's really a rubber gasket with a metal "cap" or cover on top of it) on the cylinder head cover? Maybe while doing a tune-up?

Once I got the bolts off, I realized that it was impossible to remove the old caps from the bolts. The bolt is designed with a flange that holds the cap on. If the cap is going to come off, it has to slide over that flange. Really impossible (for me, anyway).

In the below link, I am referring to Illust. Nos. 6 and 7.

Thanks!


Honda Automotive Parts

 

It occurred to me that I could buy replacement bolts to go with the new "caps." While getting the old "caps" off the old bolts may be impossible, sliding the new "caps" onto new bolts may work. The flange on the bolt is tapered to a funnel shape, and so is the rubber gasket inside the metal "cap."

 

I haven't replaced the caps (or sealing gaskets) on my Hondas since my '90 Accord. The caps were NOT captive on that car, and I dropped a couple over the years.

Further, on newer Hondas since our '99 Acura TL, the bolts have shoulders that prevent over-torquing.

Good Move, Honda! One of the many little engineering points I love about these cars.