I'm putting the final touches on my solid lifter 428 non-cobra jet engine. When I picked up the engine from the builder last fall he was not able to include a set valve covers that he wanted to use because the (I'm not sure what you call these) towers/shafts/stands on top of the heads were too tall to allow fitment of the aforementioned valve covers. So, he included a set of "Powered by Ford" pent roof covers. They are not in the best shape, battery acid stain, scratches, chain marks, peeling chrome. Because I'm trying to rein in the cost on the full build I was going to use them for a while. However, upon priming the oil pump I discovered that they leak. I did not apply any sealant to the gaskets so that probably did not help matters. I understand that haqving leaks with this type of valve covers is common. So, I'm trying to figure out what some good options are for valve covers that would fit over the aformentioned towers and would seal good.

 

I"m not sure whihc would best fit your needs, but here's some from Tony Branda. I susgest you call them. They seem to know wht fits what with regards to their product.

http://search.store.yahoo.net/cgi-bi....cobranda.com/

Be aware, the cast aluminum ones don't come down over the gasket like the sheet metal ones. You have to use gasket shellac and snug them only a bit, wait over night, then tighten again, or the gasket may slip out. Fel-Pro also makes rubber gaskets and you don't need sealer.

Here's some more form Summit:

http://www.summitracing.com/search/P...0/?Ns=Rank|Asc

 

Argess - Thank you for the guidance. I did not know about the aluminum covers not going down over the gasket. I currently have rubber gaskets. I liked the looks of the baldy covers. I'll check them out.

 

66, I have not had any luck with the rubber gaskets stopping leaks.

I can recommend a couple things, 1st make sure the covers don't rock at all. You want them to lay flat. 2nd pound out any bolt hole dimples, everything must be flat.

Also, when installing they need to be tightened 5-6 foot pounds only.




John

 

Also make sure the manifold and the head line up sometimes the manifold will sit higher and will cause a leak between the head and the intake.

 

John and gashog - Thank you for sharing your experirnce. I'll check all the things you mentioned. Part of the problem is that the engine lists like the Titanic on the engine stand. I could not get it to bolt up so that it was completely upright. The stand had a pin that aligns on holes in a swivel where it moints to the engine. So, when I pour the oil in the valve cover some of it leaks out from under the outside edge of the cover expecially where those little tabs on the gasket are. I probably had the gaskets too tight as well. Of course it will sit upright in the truck. At least thats the plan.