Jump to content

What is better for a valve cover gasket job, cork or rubber?


Recommended Posts

I've had good luck with both. The neoprene will be easier to remove down the road. Use some RTV sealant (silicone) to hold the gasket in place on the valve cover while you place it on the engine. Then start from the center and work your way to the ends of the valve cover tightening the screws. If you're ambitious you can put four 1/4-20 studs on each head to more easily locate the v/c and use nuts on them to snug it.

It is always good practice to check the gasket flanges for straightness and straighten if needed. Then do not overtorque the screws and warp the flange all over again.

Around 1974, the factory quit using gaskets and started using RTV to seal valve covers.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Thank you, Glenn. I will try the rubber and see how it goes.

This should be fun! Now maybe you can tell me what could possibly leak oil from the front of an engine?? It was supposedly all over the lower radiator hose.

The shop was supposed to tell me what it was but never did. Any idea or could it just be oil from the valve covers being slung? <img src="http://www.aaca.org/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Valve covers could be suspect because oil runs down from highest point. Other suspect areas are: fuel pump gasket, crankshaft seal, oil pan-to-timing cover seal, oil pan gaskets, oil pressure sender. I've also seen oil leaks between head and block.

Once you get the v/c gaskets on, have the engine and chassis cleaned. Then you'll be able to see leaks. If you have a pressure washer and don't mind stains on the driveway, it can be done at home (the pressure washer will also clean the mess off the concrete). If not, it's worth the $50 or so to pay a pro detail shop to do it.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
×
×
  • Create New...