It has been months since I first tried to change the valve cover gasket and VANOS seals in my E39 BMW. I was stopped in my tracks due to a stuck valve cover bolt, which proceeded to strip. I tried cutting a slot and inserting a screw driver, drilling a hole to get penetrating solvent in there, but nothing worked. I was getting very frustrated, and the valve cover was leaking badly enough that the car would smoke every once in a while from oil burning on the exhaust manifold. It was time do something about this.
I brought the car to my independent mechanic, who was able to get the bolt off by using a chisel at the right angle and tapping it. This finally caused the seize to break and the bolt became free. Now, I can finally, months later, make my second attempt at changing my valve cover gasket and VANOS seals.
Exhaust Fumes 