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Does valve cover gasket thickness make a difference?

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Old Nov 4, 2002 | 02:30 PM
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Default Re: Does valve cover gasket thickness make a difference? (Rick Church)

If you use a thicker gasket then make sure the bolts that hold the coever down are long enough. It will also raise the height of cover itself which, to most people is not a big deal however when you add that to taller rails on the heads along with tall alumuminum valve covers you can start to get clearance problems with things like alternators etc.

Can't see either one actually sealing any better than the other though :D
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Old Nov 4, 2002 | 04:19 PM
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Default Re: Does valve cover gasket thickness make a difference? (Rick Church)

I prefer the thicker ones. Just becareful not to overtighten them. Actually, I think the best gaskets are Earl's. They are made of silicone with an aluminum center and bolt bosses. You can't overtighten them and they won't leak. They are a bit pricey at $49 but they will last for ever. It's worth it in my opinion. http://store.summitracing.com/defaul...rchType%3DBoth

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Old Nov 4, 2002 | 09:56 PM
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Default Re: Does valve cover gasket thickness make a difference? (burners)

When I rebuilt the engine into the stroker I tried the thicker gaskets, but had to change to the thinner ones asI couldn't get them to seal. The thinner ones were no problem.
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Old Nov 5, 2002 | 12:48 AM
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Default Re: Does valve cover gasket thickness make a difference? (Rick Church)

If the bolt lengths are an issue, your bolts are too short already...to add 1/16" should be OK...but I would like to see some feedback about the little (about 4" long) plates that bolt down and spread the bolt pressure.
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Old Nov 5, 2002 | 01:44 AM
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Default Re: Does valve cover gasket thickness make a difference? (Stevo81)

Some people recommend going with the thicker gaskets if you are going with bigger ratio rocker arms just to make sure they clear.
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Old Nov 5, 2002 | 01:53 AM
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Default Re: Does valve cover gasket thickness make a difference? (Stevo81)

Note to Stevo81: I like the long ones.......right side of my motor wouldnt seal with the regular ones........long ones did the trick, and still do..... :D
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Old Nov 5, 2002 | 08:57 AM
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Default Re: Does valve cover gasket thickness make a difference? (Stevo81)

"...but I would like to see some feedback about the little
(about 4" long) plates that bolt down and spread the
bolt pressure. "


Those are NOT supposed to be used on the aluminum covers - only the stamped steel ones.
Paul


[Modified by pws69, 7:58 AM 11/5/2002]
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