Valve Cover Gaskets

[Brian G.]

Hello. I`m going to change the valve cover gaskets on our `75 and would like some suggestions as to the best cork gaskets I should use. Thanks.

[Jim T.]

Re: Valve Cover Gaskets

I have used the standard Fel-Pro cork type gaskets which work okay for me. On my 68 they are so easy to change when them start seaping. I do use a inch pound torque wrench when I install new ones and use the torque wrench for whenever I feel like I should to make sure the recommended torque is still present. Only wish the 85's were as easy to change.

[Brian G.]

Re: Valve Cover Gaskets

What would be the correct torque for the bolts? I think I remember seeing a post one time that said 45 in/lbs. This would be for an L-48, if that makes any difference. Thanks again.

[John H.]

Re: Valve Cover Gaskets

Brian -

That's about right - some manuals show 45, some 55. Make sure the seal surface on the valve covers is as flat as you can get it, especially at the bolt hole locations (which are usually distorted), and adhere the gaskets to the valve covers with a bead of RTV before you install them. This will avoid damaging the gaskets the next time you remove the covers, and will stop most of the leaks - they generally leak between the gasket and the cover, not between the gasket and the head (unless the surface on the head is really bad). I've done it this way for years, and have never had a leaker.

[Jack H.]

Interesting alternatives....

The Fel-Pro 'Gasket Installation Tips' booklet does a nice job talking to the four variations of valve cover gaskets they offer:

(1) Fel-Coprene, synthetic rubber
(2) Blue-Stripe, cork rubber
(3) Perma-Dry, premium molded rubber
(4) Perma-Dry Plus

The last two offerings are more expensive because they're re-usable and have built-in grommets to defeat over-torque. If you had an earlier Corvette with solid lifters that required periodic adjustment and didn't care about factory concours originality/look, these 'exotic' gaskets might be worth looking into!

Anyway you slice it, the booklet (free at most Fel-Pro distribution outlets) is well worth reading as there are similar one-piece, integral grommet gaskets available for other engine applications including the oil pan!

[John H.]

Re: Interesting alternatives....

I've always used the Fel-Pro blue-stripe cork/rubber valve cover gaskets, and all my cars have solid lifters; easy-off, easy-on, no leakers. The cork component absorbs some oil, expands a little, seals tight on the as-cast head rail surface. Works for me.