C1 59: Valve cover gaskets

[Rob M.]

Hi all,

I just got my valve covers back from the metal workshop (I know they should remain orange but I couldn't resist the chrome) and I want to put them on the engine tomorrow. I have a cork gasket to go with it. Should I apply any of that liquid gasket sealer onto the cork or bolts to seal it of or should I just put the cork gaskets on their place and bolt the covers down (using the reinforcements and the rubber protector) ?

greetings and thanks for your suggestions,
Rob.




The C1 59 Restoration Project

[Christopher R.]

Re: C1 59: Valve cover gaskets

The factory used cork gaskets without any sealer. Many people now apply sealer to the valve cover in order to glue the gasket to the valve cover. Then apply a thin film of grease, oil, or silicone to the gasket or head so that it will resist sticking to the head. In that way you can, if you want, remove the valve cover later, and maybe you will be able to re-use the gasket. Usually when you remove the valve cover later you will destroy the gasket because some of it will stick to the valve cover and some of it will stick to the head.

There are better gaskets now than the cork ones available in 1959. I believe they are made out of neoprene. I know Fel-Pro makes them.

Whatever you do or whichever gasket you use, pay attention to the torque values recommended. Biggest problem with sealing valve covers is that they are over-tightened.

You be stylin' with chrome valve covers.

[Ed Jennings]

Re: C1 59: Valve cover gaskets

Whether you use the cork or neoprene, the light coat of grease Chris mentions will aid in future removal. The sheet metal covers had a small metal "washer" that helped spread the load on the bolts. They are shaped so that a rounded portion goes in the indentation and then spreads out on each side. If you don't have these pieces, I believe they are readily available from the catalog folks.