Topic: Oil leaks
in Forum: C3 Engines
Already a Member?
Click Here to Login
Not yet a Member?
Click Here to Register for Free!
I have a 1982 and have trouble with the valve cover gaskets leaking. They have been replaced but after a couple of years they start leaking again. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Gary
SPONSOR AD:: (Our Sponsors help support C3VR)
The newest thing is the rubber coated steel gaskets. They are reusable and supposed to be the be-all, end-all of valve cover gaskets. Be prepared. They are pricey.
From what I know, they should'nt be put on TOO snug to begin with. Then check them and snug 'em down every so often. Nothing crazy, just a little tightening as needed.
I recently had mine replaced when other work was done. After about 600 miles or so, I've tweaked them twice and I'm pretty sure they're good to go.
I use a 1/4" drive set to seat them. I still get too much torque. The specs are something like 15 INCH pounds or some silly number like that (don't have a book with me) so you can easily overtighten them.
Former Member
Send PM
Mounds View, MN - USA
Joined: 5/24/2007
Posts: 1031
Vette(s): 70 LT1 coupe, 69 350 HP coupe, 69 390HP 427 coupe, 71 LS5 convert, 85 coupe, 93 coupe
Step one is to make sure your valve covers are absolutely straight. Then, because I am old, I still like the old cork gaskets, even though I have great things about the coated steel. I use silicone sealer to glue the gasket to the cover, then lay them gasket down on a flat surface to ensure you are starting with a flat seal. Then gently tighten with a nut driver. No matter what you do, small block chev valve covers are not a very good design unless you use cast aluminum.
Larry
Larry
I have to agree with Larry, except the old part, I don't know him well enough to make that kind of statement.
ANYWAY.............I always use Felpro cork gaskets, and some silicone on the surface. If you use the clear silicone, and be very careful with it, you can get by an NCRS inspection. They look for the cork.
[QUOTE=dnv]...The specs are something like 15 INCH pounds or some silly number like that ... so you can easily overtighten them.... [/QUOTE]
I saw a reference to a 3 ft/lb torque setting for valve cover bolts. It isn't very much. Most people make the mistake of over tightening them.
Lifetime MemberGreensburg, IN - USA
Joined: 9/24/2003
Posts: 5188
Vette(s): Previous: 1984 Silver / Charcoal Coupe, 1988 Maroon Coupe / 1989 Artic White Coupe / 2001 Speedway White Roadster / Present:1976 Stingray Black / Black, Auto, 350 slightly modified (355 hp) Luxor Wires Redline Tires. / 1989 Roadster Bright Red...
Right up front I am old and like the Felpro gaskets with Indian Head metallic gasket sealer.
But....
I am always up for something new and bought the rubber coated steel gaskets on Ebay from abad71camaro for about $10.00. So far so good. No runs, no drips, no errors...
This guy also sells some pretty kewl milled aluminium products which I had to partake of too. Quick shipping, good feedback, and reasonable prices..... Was that a plug or what?
Tuxblacray 2008-04-30 11:41:34
But....
I am always up for something new and bought the rubber coated steel gaskets on Ebay from abad71camaro for about $10.00. So far so good. No runs, no drips, no errors...
This guy also sells some pretty kewl milled aluminium products which I had to partake of too. Quick shipping, good feedback, and reasonable prices..... Was that a plug or what?
Looks like he has a good selection and prices... gonna have to get a set of those rubber coated valve cover gaskets and some of the milled aluminum items for my vette. Thanks for the lead, Larry.
Your other brother, Larry 
The difference between men and boys is the cost of their toys!!
Thanks everyone for your help!
Gary
in Forum: C3 Engines
SPONSOR AD: (Our Sponsors help support C3VR)