: Start at the two center bolts and work outward in a "criss-cross" or "spiral" fashion to ensure even pressure on the gasket.

: Inspect the PCV diaphragm (the round puck on the cover) while you're at it; they often fail at the same time as the gasket.

: Finally, he reached the corners, pulling the edges of the cover down flush against the cylinder head.

If you are actually performing this repair, here is the essential data:

The "story" of the repair was over, told in fifteen bolts and one perfect spiral. 🔧 Technical Quick-Reference

: He moved outward, crisscrossing from left to right, top to bottom.

: 8 N·m / 71 lb-in (Note: Inch-pounds , not foot-pounds!)

: He moved to the bolt directly opposite the first. Click.