valve cover gaskets

[Andy Gargagliano]

Want to get some new valve cover gaskets for my 72 monte with 350 engine as one is leaking from the rear corner.Who makes the best gaskets and where can I buy them.Thanks.

[72jrfan88]

I just did my 72 350. I used a felpro gasket, rubber from auto zone. I spent a little more and got one that had hard wire within the rubber to give it more durability. Holding up great thus far

[footballubet]

Get the rubber valve cover gaskets. I used them on mine and have taken them off a couple times and reused the gaskets with no problems.

[502ci]

I agree on the rubber gaskets...over the years I have taken the valve covers off many times and reinstalled them with zero leaks.

[Patrick Sheean]

Yep, what those guys said, did the same on mine recently, no leaks.

[cny first gen 71]

and dont over tighten them

[72Ragtop]

Anybody got any updates, new info or part numbers on the small block valve cover gasket subject? Thanx Dave

[bigtankjones]

Felpro 1644 composite with steel core

Felpro 1628 Blue Rubber

Summit Racing

[71MonteCarloMD]

Any specific torque for valve cover bolts?

[dbreese]

If using oem steel valve covers make sure the flanges are are flat and the bolt holes are not pulled inward. I have the felpro blue rubber with the steel reinforcement. It also has metal inserts where the bolts go through so you can't over torque them. 

 

David

[rsorg]

I like to put a VERY THIN coat of gasket sealer on both sides of any gasket I install ,usually permatex  or similar. never had a problem with leaks.and let them sit for a while to cure.

[Rob Peters]

Torque on the original valve cover bolts is 3-Ft Lbs.

As others mentioned, do not over-tighten the bolts because it will cause the valve cover to flex and allow for a leak.

rob

[72MC]

As much as I am huge fan of the Felpro Blue rubber gaskets, especially the one piece oil pan gaskets, I still perfer the old fashion rubber/cork valve cover gaskets. 

 

However, the ones I would get were still made by Felpro but they were DOUBLE the thickness compared to the original style.  I would use Edelbrock's Gasketcinch (sp) on the mating surface between the valve cover and the gasket.  The contact between head and the gasket I would leave dry.  I would normally go a couple years before replacing.  I never had a leaking problem and could remove and reinstall valve covers with ease as the gasket would stay attached to the valve cover thanks to the Gasketcinch. 

 

Another trick I used since the gaskets were thicker would be to over torque to about 5 ft lbs(all based on feel) and I would use small lock washers. 

 

Disclosures:  This is just my two cents worth   - Dave