Valve cover gasket replacement

[C.L.Rowe]

I need to replace the valve cover gaskets on my 94 Disco.
What is the proper tool to remove the valve cover screws?

On my other vehicles (mostly Toys), there is no need use new screws when doing this job. Why is replacing the screws required here? I'm not quibbling about the cost, and I will order them along with the gaskets, just wondering what the reasoning is. Doesn't seem like it's a hi-torque application that would stress or stretch the threads....

Thanks!
Charlie

[kevin-ct]

The valve covers bolts are 12 points, so to remove them you well need a 12 point 8 mm socket. Why new bolts, under the lip of the head of the bolts there is a bead of rubber/rtv that seals the bolt hole from leaking.

[C.L.Rowe]

Thanks Kevin,
That makes a lot of sense. Too bad all my sockets are 6 pt.

[SGFMORover]

did this awhile back; sears was the only place i could find that sold the 12pt sockets... like $4/each. lowes, HD, etc didn't have a thing. actually my snap-on guy never even got back to me now that I think about it.

[C.L.Rowe]

Thanks. I found a 3/8" drive 12 pt socket yesterday at Home Depot.
Part # 23508. Chinese, but lifetime warranty.