Is there a way to remove this without damaging it? (pic)

I am trying to get the engine oil cap off my donor car to be used on my project car. Can I get it off without ripping the leash?

Luck of the draw in my opinion. If it was new, I'd say no problem. If it's old and brittle, probably not. I don't like them anyway.

A little heat from a heat gun or blow dryer should cause the plastic ring to expand enough for you to safely remove it. RAY

Maybe try soaking it in hot water so that it gets more supple.

Good ideas. Once you've got it ready, slowly pry it up with a small screwdriver. Be patient.

Besides the above, how about a little liquid soap to make it slip easier. Good luck

take it off like a tire off a rim, don't try to get it off evenly!

Inspect it carefully, see if the ring material is narrower along one area. I bought a "new" cap at a an MG show for under ten bucks. Old ring popped right off no problem. Engine was hot at the time.

Replaced it because I I got a lot of oil leakage from under and couldn't find a rubber 'washer' the right size anywhere.

Dropped my oil "consumption" dramatically.

The strap on Mine 78 was broke off,I had`nt noticed the ring around the filler spout,Where the strap was broke on top of the cap it looked like a pointer that You would set on the brand of oil I am using as all the major brands are listed on the cap top.:thumbsup:

Squash the oil inlet with a pair of vice grips until it's smaller than the plastic ring. :thumbsup:

IIRC the shop manual says that the oil cap is supposed to be changed every 12,000 miles. Even though it is supposed to be an air intake for the engine, the felt pad in them gets all gunked up with oil residue blowing out through it (because the crankcase vent is clogged) and doesn't do it's job any more.

I would not tear up the old valve cover by pinching the metal on it, it still looks useable. I'd just get another cap, they are reasonably priced.

Don't forget, Terry has to re-install this on his new valve cover so what ever method he uses to remove, he'll have to "reverse" it to install. ;)

What is it the service manual usually states: "Installation is the reverse of removal" ?

Bout a 50/50 shot.