Need tips on installing centerbolt valve covers
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 627
Likes: 5
From: Frisco TX
Need tips on installing centerbolt valve covers
I've been fighting a set of leaky valve covers for some time now. I hear it's very important to not over torque the center bolts. Does anyone know the correct torque for these bolts?
I purchased a set of rubber fel-pro gaskets so I think I'm on the right track there.
The covers have 3 holes. One for the oil fill and I'm guessing the other two are for breathers. Is this right??? What exactly do the breathers do? Are they relief valves?
Do I need to use any kind of gasket sealant or any other kind of substance when putting these guys on?
I purchased a set of rubber fel-pro gaskets so I think I'm on the right track there.
The covers have 3 holes. One for the oil fill and I'm guessing the other two are for breathers. Is this right??? What exactly do the breathers do? Are they relief valves?
Do I need to use any kind of gasket sealant or any other kind of substance when putting these guys on?
Last edited by TXredc3; Dec 29, 2008 at 11:35 PM.
Racer
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 292
Likes: 2
From: Plumas Lake CA
Fel Pro gaskets
You may have noticed already, but the Fel Pro gaskets look to be about 2 or 3 inches too short for your valve covers. This creates a serious hassle when trying to install them, as the gasket will not stay "stretched" to the proper size. The best technique I'm seen - and tried - is to "glue" them to the valve covers with black RTV sealant before attempting to install the covers. I've also used pieces of black tape around the edges. Once the covers are in place and just before starting to snug the hardware, carefully pull the tape out from under the covers. Without using something to hold the gaskets in place you will become frustrated and invent many new, colorful derogatory phrases.
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 5,086
Likes: 786
From: Lebanon Township New Jersey
I have centerbolt valve covers - the stock steel GM units. I use sealant to hold the gasket on the cover only, none between the gasket and the head. Just tighten the bolts moderately and snug them down again in a few days.
