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Since I need to replace my valve stem seals, I figured I'd install some Crane Cams aluminum roller rockers while I have the thing apart. I've read in many places that my stock valve covers will not clear these rockers.
I've thought of several ways to handle this clearance problem, but how many millimeters of clearance are we talking about here, and how did y'all handle the situation?
Do you have center-bolt covers? Are your stock rockers self-aligning?
For the 1.6:1 ProMagnums to clear my center-bolt covers I had to remove most of the drip tabs and narrow the retainer bolt towers. Use some water when grind on those Mg covers to avoid fire (it would burn VERY brightly).
I had called Edelbrock to inquire about their valve covers, and the tech I spoke to suggested that I might want to keep my stock valve covers and install an extra thick cover gasket from Mr. Gasket. It would mean putting slightly longer studs in the heads, but it seems like the least destructive to original parts.
It seems to me those drip tabs must serve a function, and I am hesitant to grind them off, except as a last resort.
I believe that a full roller rocker reduces friction due to the full roller bearings but it still requires as much lubrication. Go ahead and grind off the drip tabs. I've done this to a couple of my own cars and I know some other guys who've done it with no problems at all.
i took a 4" angle grinder to my valve covers. i had a set of full size rollers laying around...the non center bolt wide style. they will fit on centerbolt heads you just have to go to town with a grinder and hog out the whole underside of the valve cover. have em on and happy as a clam now