Question: Leaking valve cover gaskets

[78pacecargirl]

Hi All! Once again it's time to replace the valve cover gaskets on my 78. Is it normal for these to leak every 3 or 4 years? I am using the original covers. Does anyone have experience with the Ultra-Seal gasket? What about Fel-Pro or Eldelbrock? Any recommendations are appreciated.

 

[6880 Mike]

I'm using the Fel-Pros; no complaints about those. Watch the torque on valve cover bolts. It isn't much.

 

[duke94]

Use the rubber ones with the steel center. You'll never have another leak, and you can use them over and over again.

http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?part=SUM-G2301&autoview=sku

 

[minifridge1138]

I'm using the Fel-Pros; no complaints about those. Watch the torque on valve cover bolts. It isn't much.

How much is not much?

 

[6880 Mike]

...How much is not much?...

Check your Chilton's, etc. These guys say 3 ft/lbs. http://www.boxwrench.net/specs/chevy_sb.htm

Most people make the mistake of laying on valve cover bolts with the idea the tighter they are the less they will leak. Too tight and all you do is cut the gaskets.

 

[Bill75]

Check your Chilton's, etc. These guys say 3 ft/lbs. http://www.boxwrench.net/specs/chevy_sb.htm

Most people make the mistake of laying on valve cover bolts with the idea the tighter they are the less they will leak. Too tight and all you do is cut the gaskets.

Very True, I agree. Also what happens is the cover gets warped from overtightening and will no longer sit flat on the gasket. Take a look down the edge of the cover while it's in your hand and see that the sealing edge is nice and straight.

 

[Evolution1980]

On my old L-48 with the OEM covers, I used those 3" or so brackets at each bolt and that cleared up my leaky covers.
(Sorry, I don't have a better description. I'm at work and don't have any pics handy either..)

UPDATE:
here, I found similar ones at Summit. LINK