Apparatus and methods for removing valve cover components includes a torque transfer tool that mates with an extending portion of the valve cover assembly and has a multi-faceted segment to receive a torque-supplying wrench. A hydraulically-actuated wrench has a head with a multi-faceted portion that engages the corresponding multi-faceted segment of the torque transfer tool. The wrench's hydraulic cylinder rotates the wrench head upon actuation. The multifaceted segments can be splined. Also disclosed is a reaction tube against which the wrench can be braced prior to actuation of the cylinder.