Valve cover gaskets

[rattlesnake]

I always use a very thin film of gasket shellac. I use the same procedure cudabob used. I apply the shellac to both sides (a very thin film) tighten finger tight. let it sit until semi set (this will vary depending on the sealer used)and then tighten to specs. I know most gasket manufacturers do not recommend a sealer, But I absolutely cannot stand a leaky motor of any kind. I also don't like the idea of taking something apart that I have spent countless hours making it look new just because it has a small leak. The fact is most things are not perfectly square or flat, especially parts that are 40 years old and/or are mass produced. I think the key for me personally is not over applying (using too much) the sealer. I use a sealer on almost everything except components that are directly submerged in fuel or have fuel flowing through them.   

[72cudamaan]

I always use a very thin film of gasket shellac. I use the same procedure cudabob used. I apply the shellac to both sides (a very thin film) tighten finger tight. let it sit until semi set (this will vary depending on the sealer used)and then tighten to specs. I know most gasket manufacturers do not recommend a sealer, But I absolutely cannot stand a leaky motor of any kind. I also don't like the idea of taking something apart that I have spent countless hours making it look new just because it has a small leak. The fact is most things are not perfectly square or flat, especially parts that are 40 years old and/or are mass produced. I think the key for me personally is not over applying (using too much) the sealer. I use a sealer on almost everything except components that are directly submerged in fuel or have fuel flowing through them.   

Glad it works for you. Why bother with gaskets then? Might as well save the money for other things.

[rattlesnake]

WoW, a little sarcasm, I like it!

[72cudamaan]

WoW, a little sarcasm, I like it!

Sarcasm...maybe?  Food for thought...definitely. Do you see my point though?

[cudabob496]

Sarcasm...maybe?  Food for thought...definitely. Do you see my point though?

Not sure about your point. But, my point is, the form-a-gasket seams to seal areas where the thickness of the cork
gasket is not quite enough to prevent minor oil leakage, due to a not perfectly flat valve cover. No one is suggesting you goop it on, in place of the cork gasket.

[rattlesnake]

Yes Cudamaan I see your point, and it is very valid. I am somewhat of a purest and sometimes I hate using anything other than a gasket. I remind myself, do I want to chance it though. I have had a gasket only leak on me many, many times(especially valve covers) Compared to very few leaks ever appear when a thin film of shellac or sealer is used. But I do value your opinion and understand where you are coming from.

[cudabob496]

Be nice if there was a product called form-an-engine. No matter what problem you have,
just squeeze a tube of it under your hood, and it's fixed!

[dodj]

Be nice if there was a product called form-an-engine. No matter what problem you have,
just squeeze a tube of it under your hood, and it's fixed!

I'd buy a case!!!

[inviolet]

I was using the mopar perf thick black v/c gasket (same as the felpro) with good results other than you usually cant reuse them. I have tried the moroso's and they worked with stamped steel covers but they split down the middle with cast covers. They dodnt have bosses around the bolt holes and the steel shim didnt go full width of the gasket and it split the silicone when overtightend with ridgid covers right along the edge of the steel shim. I now have a new beautiful set of cometics that do have washers around the bolt holes and a full width steel shim encased in black silcone...but wont be able to know how good they are till next summer.

You wouldn't happen to have a close up picture of those cosmetics gaskets? Is part # C5983 for big block? FYI I've used the moroso's with no success, had better luck with felpro. 

[MEK-Dangerfield]

I have a set of Percy valve covers. They have a copper core.   

What I want to mention is, my problem with leaks weren't the valve covers, but heads not milled true.

[arcticmopar]

You wouldn't happen to have a close up picture of those cosmetics gaskets? Is part # C5983 for big block? FYI I've used the moroso's with no success, had better luck with felpro. 

I tried to get a photo for you but looks like it time to buy a new camera! Will try again.

[Mopar Mitch]

No gasket is better than its installation... which includes: flat flanges (repair or replace if needed), threadings cleaned; proper torque, avoiding improper chemicals never recommended by the manufacturer. 

[arcticmopar]

You wouldn't happen to have a close up picture of those cosmetics gaskets? Is part # C5983 for big block? FYI I've used the moroso's with no success, had better luck with felpro. 

OK lets ry this again.

[cudabob496]

No gasket is better than its installation... which includes: flat flanges (repair or replace if needed), threadings cleaned; proper torque, avoiding improper chemicals never recommended by the manufacturer.

But a lot of goop might cover a multitude of sins!

[inviolet]

OK lets ry this again.

They Look Good. I will try a set. Thanks.

Are going to install them with any Permatex/Right Stuff ? Or just like that? Those don't look like they need anything.