I could use some help figuring out which valve covers are appropriate for my heads and intake....


I bought the Jegs-stamped version of the 195cc Profiler heads: http://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS-Performan...14032/10002/-1

They're supposedly drilled for both center and perimeter bolts; so I'm good there.

What I don't understand is exactly what the "raised valve cover rail" feature means or how that impacts my selection.

I went with Comp Ultra Pro Magnum 1.6 ratio RRs. --So how do I know whether I need tall or short valve covers? (I'm guessing tall unless the "raised valve cover rail" feature of the heads changes that somehow.)


I am going with the huge TPI-style FIRST Fuel Injection intake that I know can have clearance issues with some valve covers, too... I have no idea what dimension matters or how to know whether everything will fit BEFORE I buy a particular valve cover.


I know that I want fabricated aluminum-style covers and that I want holes for some sort of breather setup, but that's about all I know.

-I also know that if I get natural aluminum, I want to spray / seal them with something so they don't oxidize. I could see eventually going to coil near-plug ignition coils, but I think there are ways to support those without the provisions on the rocker/valve covers themselves...



I'll take any/ all constructive feedback, ideas, and input. Trying to not make a mistake and waste $$ by buying the wrong stuff.



Adam

 

I believe the raised valve cover rail is specifically for full roller rocker arms to clear the rocker covers. If they don't, I double gasketed mine so my LT-1 covers would clear.

 

easier to use short valve covers and less chance of oil leaks. Fel pro and Mr gasket make a thick gasket
If you got a stock valve cover may have to test fit and measure to get it right so nothing touches

You may need longer studs or bolts for the valve covers, also. Never had great luck with centerbolt valve covers not leaking others have.

 

If you are using a stud girdle tall covers are required. T

 

There is a company that makes repop LT1 and old school type valve covers that are tall maybe someone here has a link, cool stuff

 

Yesterdays Muscle Cars has the tall covers "cheaters" for BBC and SBC.

Tall version SBC aluminum.
http://www.yesterdaysmusclecars.com/product_p/s6181.htm

 

They also have center bolt cheaters.

http://www.yesterdaysmusclecars.com/product_p/s6047.htm

 

I put spacers under mine, I needed a lot more than just dual gaskets.

Without spacers:



Spacers:





Referring back to your original question, your "raised valve cover rails" will reduce your need for spacers/tall valve covers/thick gaskets.