rockers and valve cover clearance

grumpyvette

Administrator
Staff member
" grumpy I have a custom set of big block valve covers that I don,t want to replace, but I have just installed some roller rockers and they touch the edge of the valve cover , any suggestions"



your problem is common and its fairly easy to correct in many cases with valve cover spacers that lift the valve cover 1" giving you more room under the valve cover for rockers or a rocker stud girdle ,yet not changing the look or requiring new valve covers too be used, obviously the first step is verifying where the clearance issue is and how much clearance is required to clear the problem.

ANSEN 7661 BB Chevy Aluminum 1" Valve Cover Spacers Polished
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if you want to ad durability it takes some extra oil system mods but spacers that spray oil to cool valve springs are available also, but you can fabricate valve spring oiler mods to valve covers cheaper your self if you have minor fabrication skills
http://www.hardin-marine.com/p-16736-bi ... ilers.aspx

viewtopic.php?f=52&t=6491&p=20681&hilit=valve+spring+cooling#p20681


BTW using load spreader clip tabs between the valve cover hold down bolts and the valve cover helps prevent leaks, bent or cracked valve covers
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I am running stamped steel chrome covers for the old school look and thick gaskets to allow clearances for my rollers and locks. Seems I always have the rear lower corner develop a leak. I have the common load spreaders and they eventually leak unless I keep an eye on them.
I just did a simple mod and let's see if it helps.
Using a doaner valve cover (off the engine) I added a 1/2" wide mild steel strip under the load spreaders then welded the load spreaders to the mild steel strip. A little cleaning and paint... I'm hoping this will provide a better solution.
 
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