valve cover leaks

[John Thomas]

How do you stop "96" valve covers from leaking?

[Joe L.]

Re: valve cover leaks

John-----

1993 through 1996 Corvettes with LT1 engines used composite material, center bolt-style valve covers. These valve covers were used in conjunction with a rubber gasket and machined rail surfaces on the aluminum heads. Usually, they seal pretty well.

If you are having leakage problems and you haven't already tried it, I'd recommend replacing the valve cover gaskets AND the center bolt oil seals with new GM parts. If that doesn't work, then you might have to replace one or both valve covers. NO sealer was ever used on these assemblies and NONE should be necessary now. If they won't seal without sealer, then there is some other problem.

[Joe C.]

Funny You Should Bring That Up.....

.....but the right side cast aluminum cover on my politically correct 1965 SHP is just now showing signs of sweating. Are these covers known for porosity, casting flaws, or cracks.

Joe

[Donald O.]

Re: Funny You Should Bring That Up.....

Joe,
If you've over tightened the hold down bolts, they can crack around the bosses for the bolts. Bubba had done it to mine. New gaskets and sealant won't fix it either. You either have to weld it, or replace it.
Don