Leaking EGR Cooler plate

[tropical 87t]

I've had an exhaust leak sound that started about a month ago.
Finally found the leak. I can feel high pressure air spitting out from behind the cylinder head and it's obvious now that the gasket between egr cooler plate and the cyl head failed.

My question is, can I remove the plate, replace the gasket, and reinstall the plate without removing the head?

I need to do a valve cover gasket job anyways and I'm thinking the cooler plate would be more accessible with the covers off.

Thanks for any input.

 

[jdub]

Yes you can...it is going to be a PITA.

You will need to remove the valve covers and the heater hose.