Need help with a stuck valve cover nut

[striktlyaccord]

I'm having trouble getting this one nut off that's circled in the pic below.  I can turn it both ways, but it just keeps spinning, so I assume it's been threaded.  I need it off as I have to remove all of the engine valve cover nuts for a minor upgrade, and this one nut is holding me back.  Any ideas how to get it off without some major surgery or cutting?

[timot_one]

Dave, that is the bolt for cam cap #1.  It's probably just loose.  Remove the other nuts from the valve cover and continue to loosen that bolt/nut and it will come out of the thread.  Then you can hold it still from inside the valve cover and remove the nut.

[NVA-AV6]

^ What he said, LOL.

[striktlyaccord]

I actually don't follow your instructions Tim.  I know I'm slow on the uptake, but I just can't picture what you're saying.  I also don't actually need to get the valve cover off... I just need these 5-6 nuts off for a lil TLC, then back on they go.  I just think I messed that one up years ago when I installed the red valve cover... don't remember how, but I did.

[CrackerTeg]

He's saying to remove the valve cover then grip that stud from underneath so that you can remove the nut. Replace the stud once you do.

[CrazyCreashunz]

Dave just be careful as the stud is delicate and might snap if applying too much pressure. I had one snap on me! That nut is just holding the valve cover down. Once you get it off you will see that the stud is left there but you are able to take the stud out as well. So what Tim is saying is to loosen the other nuts with hopes that you will be able to get the nut and stud out together on that side. Which you will then be able to get a better grip on the stud to remove the nut!

Hopefully that clears it up for ya! 

[striktlyaccord]

Yeh, a little bit.  I actually ordered some dress up pieces that replace all of the nuts and all of the studs too as it's all flush-mount.  I've taken the valve cover off before (to remove stock for the red one).  I'm hoping the gasket will be okay and reusable, but I also remember having to reseal the valve cover with some grey sealant in a few spots.  Do I really need to use that shit again if I remove the valve cover?  I made a damn mess with it last time.   :

[MyNameIsThien]

Yes, unless you want oil leaking everywhere. Put the grey silicone around the corners where the head has a crease in it.