Valve covers removal

[rs657f]

Holy crap, finally was able to pry out my valve cover off the driver side of my 1996 5.7L. I cant find any info on an easy way to do this except this one random forum from like 9 years ago that states to remove the 3 bolts on front of compressor bracket, remove nut under exhaust manifold and another nut just under that that faces forward and it did give me enough space to wiggle the cover off. Im having a damn hard time getting it back on without bending anything. Is there an easier way to do this?

 

[ccapehartusarmyINF.(ret)]

it should basically set right on there then tighten down those 4 bolts

did you get a new valve cover gasket

 

[rs657f]

yes i have a new gasket lol I wish it would just fall on there..the bottom nut im talking about removing on the bracket under the exhaust takes a lot of force turn it. That's the same bracket that holds the compressor and its just in the way a bit. I guess ill have to pull that nut a bit further to create more space. Its seriously a pain in the arse

 

[ccapehartusarmyINF.(ret)]

yeah i hear yah speakin of difficult valve covers these newer motors are annoying cuz you gotta remove the coil packs just to get to the valve covers
they dont give you shit for room
like i noticed on of my exhaust manifold bolts wer snapped off but its the rear passenger side manifold bolt and that ****** heat shield gets in the way

 

[rs657f]

Got it off can't get it back on. Anyone? Thoughts?

 

[SunlitComet]

something is obstructing it or the cover is lip is bent.