Hand tight or ???

[cutchaguy]

I replaced the valve cover gasket after looking inside to see if I could see if anything was amiss.

When taking one of the bolts off, I noticed that I didn't even even need to use any tools...it wasn't even finger tight! Anyway, I replaced the gasket, but am now wondering how tight I should go. I couldn't find any regular replacement washers, so I used a nylon one for oil pans until or unless I need different ones.

[124cso]

Just snug. the small socket key / box spanner in the tool kit fits them or use a hex key. Tight by hand, perhaps 10 foot pounds ?
Over do it and they will distort slightly and leak forever.

[MNspiderman]

The cork and rubber gaskets get brittle and shrink over time. Thats more than likely why your nuts were loose