Valve cover gasket replacement

Hello,

Unless there are specific issues like sludge build up or debris inside, there is no need to clean out. But as with most engines you could see some gunk build-up inside. If so clean it with a rag.
You could use spray cleaners, just be careful not to get in any rubber components.

Here is a helpful guide that goes over the best practices:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-valve-cover-gasket

As for the ticking lifters, it is unlikely you will see loose bolts, as if they are loose, they will likely come off and create damage. Most of the time the ticking noise is due to bad lifters and that will need to be replaced to fix the issue.

What engine does the Dakota have?

I have attached the replacement procedure for the 3.9L V6 below. It has the torque specs for your reference.
And yes, you can re-use the bolts for the valve cover (unless there is an issue with one).

If you have a different engine just let me know and I will upload the info for that engine.

Let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.

I had another question. I replaced the plugs and cleaned out the throttle body and IAC, I may have used a bit too much carburetor cleaner and it fouled plugs.

Won't start. Just turns over.
Do i need to air it out a bit and pull out all the plugs, and open the butterfly to let in air? Temporarily use the old plugs.
I'm just wondering how to get it back to starting.
Thanks

Got it going. Had to let it air out with plugs out a quick turnover with fuel relay out. old plugs back i can i reinstall the new ones after cleaning with carburetor cleaner or did a 1-time oil on them hurt them permanently?

You should be able to clean the plugs and after they are dried out, they can be installed. It should not impact the performance. As long there was not damage to the electrode.

Thanks.
Is basic Autolite copper a good plug on the Dodge 3.9 vs the NGK i'm taking out? I'm not crazy about Champion.

The standard Autolite will work just fine. However more people prefer the NGK plugs over the Autolite.
Just be sure to have them gapped at 0.040 in.

https://youtu.be/c9_NVXiwvYg