and I used this Mr. Subaru video. He claims it was a 2011 outback. Maybe my OB has a previous undisclosed accident or mrsubaru worked magic I’m not skilled with:

 

Yes, the driver's side sux. I also used the MrSubaru video, along with this website. I did NOT have to raise the engine on my 2011 OB 2.5 Limited. But I had to "finesse" that valve cover back over about 15 minutes or so, it was a PITA. Pretty sure on my 2011 Outback I was able to do it from up top, but IIRC on my 2011 Legacy 2.5 I was able to finally get it after "finessing" it from down below. From up top, I would come in at an angle with the valve cover and aim for the tight spot at the from rail; I would finesse up/down that particular corner of the valve corner. Pretty sure I had to position the valve cover almost vertical to make that tight spot. It's tough, but keep at it, don't give up. You'll get it. Keep us posted.

 

Update: got it off after trying multiple times but can’t get it back on. I wish I would have take a video of myself taking it off. Each time the gasket falls off when I hit tight spots. Any suggestions?

 

So, after re-reading your post, I will clarify mine....removing the valve cover is certainly just as frustrating as replacing it after installing a new gasket and tube seals. FINESSE. Angle the entire valve cover to vertical and back, as you are working that tight corner at the rail. Pretty sure I remember that the removal process sucked, but not as bad as the replacement. But it sounds like you're stuck. Try from below if possible.

 

.....And don't be afraid to put a little ass into it. I think on my Legacy, I smeared some motor oil or grease on the frame rail in the area where the valve cover was touching. The clearances are tight, but you should be able to get it (unless as you said the car has been in a prior accident, but unless it bent the frame I'm not sure how it would make this job any worse).

 

Haha OMG, I feel your frustration !! If it came off, it will go back on. You gotta rediscover the "sweet spot" that you found when taking it off. The gasket issue is definitely annoying, I remember getting to the point that I didn't put that gasket on until after I worked the valve cover into position. It was to the point that I could put that gasket on blindfolded . You're halfway there, maybe take a break for tonight? Also, make sure you torque those valve cover bolts to the correct setting, over-tightening is NOT good !!

 

Yup taking a break tonight. Gotta make it work tomorrow or someone won’t be going to work Monday!

 

Did mine once in the car after my head gasket repair. Needed to check valve clearances on the driver's side.

I went with the jack it up method. Took off the both side nuts as well as the front mount cross bolt. Then jacked it up enough to easily remove and replace the valve cover and gasket. My lift point was the front mount and it worked well.

 

Morning update: I jacked up the front of the OB (not the engine) and got the cover in! Wow that felt good. Being able to see and move the cover from the bottom made all of the difference. I was able to locate the exact position of being stuck. Mr Subarus video was helpful but I wish it would have given this suggestion. He made it look too easier and really it was easy when I could see it from the bottom. Thanks for everyone’s help! I was nearly ready to give up! Happy Easter!