Can the valley cover be removed without taking a head or both heads off?
I just want to clean it/paint it but can't get the dang thing off.

 

Yes, but, you've got to hold your mouth just right. It can also be a flipping pain if it doesn't cooperate. Shove it all the way either left or right and try to ease the other side's lip past the head casting. If that doesn't work try shoving it to the other side.

 

I can't hold my mouth in any more positions without getting lock jaw!
The cover lifted high enough to see underneath with a flashlight and the baffle (or whatever that metal pan is) is wider than the opening. It is apparent that if I could turn the cover one way or another I would be able to get past the casting but I cannot.

Do you have any idea what the baffle is for?

 

I had to pull a head to get my 272 tray out . baffle keeps oil from sloshing around and running to the back of the motor when accelerating , Do yourself a favor remember to put the tray on the motor be for putting the heads on and rocker arms , push rods ,and headers .It will save a lot of dirty language ,

 

It is my understanding that the baffle actually serves as an air damper for crankcase ventilation. It should be left in place even if using PCV instead of a road draft tube.
With the cover flat on the block, shove it to one side and compress the gasket on that side and/or gently bend the raised flange that's in the way of clearing on the other side with a flat-head pry bar (er, screwdriver). some folks grind those raised lips down, but, they make the cover stronger and help to keep a seal. So, I wouldnt remove much.
Have fun!

 

Now that I've been thinking about it. That did cause me a few cuss words. It has been long enough I forgot that pain.

 

I can assure all of you that the dang thing is not going to come out in useable condition unless ahead is removed. I give you that assurance because my wife evaluated it and came to that conclusion. I shall not argue with my wife as she has been inattentive to some of the expenses on Floyd.

If things change I'll let you guys know.

 

I think you are correct, the 239 is a little different than the 55 and up y blocks.

 

Kevin, my truck is a 55 with the 239 so does that change the opinion on ability to remove the cover without removing a head?