Ok, here's the deal...

We're putting together this 396 LT1, and we've got the Harland Sharp roller rockers, nice springs, etc... Well, now we're having valve cover clearance issues, and while I was expecting clearance issues and got new valve covers (that look totally awesome, by the way... polished billet aluminum ) The new valve covers aren't going to work, because they take away from the clearance of the alternator. So if I put the nice valve covers on this engine, I can't get the alternator on.

Any ideas or suggestions? The stock valve covers are too short, and the nice aftermarket ones are too bulky to allow the alt to go on.

Thanks!

 

Beat in the valve covers a bit, or start grinding. The other option is axing the A/C and sticking the alternator in its place with a custom bracket. Do a search, they're available.

 

RFR Custom Fabrications takes time, but they r sweet!!

 

those custom brackets are a waste of money... do yourself a favor.. Grind a little off of the alternator... Works like a charm.. Im running tall covers and after about 30 secs of grinding they fit like a glove!

 

SVT,

What kind of valve covers are you using? How tall are they.

For your question the Proform valve covers should work for you and has SVT mentioned some grinding on the back of your alternator will fix it.
There is a great write up on here somewhere about it

LT4383,
I called RFR today and your right 6 weeks and probably close to $400.
They are very nice but...
How long have you had yours and do they leak?

 

I'm going to be running the polished Proform "Chevrolet" valve covers. There is a write-up on here if you search for it, but not necessary. There's a small lip or "ear" on the back of the alternator you need to grind which is easily done with a dremel in a minute. Just look at what is obstructing the alt when you go to put it on and you'll see what has to go. Then you're all set.

 

Black Crinkle Finish covers from GM.


There is a pic of the valve covers here... http://www.socalmuscle.com/~mleaf/ka...1/DSCN4713.JPG

Good Luck.. If I get around to it I will take a pic of the back side of my alternator... You could probably do a search for "Tall Valve Covers" or "Valve Cover Clearance" on here and find the write up that TCAL was talking about!

 

You're right, it does take time for them to be made. I have not had my new motor fired as of yet, so uncertain if they leak. Was told the rail is CNC'ed, so in theory they shouldn't, but......

 

The valve covers are MMS billet aluminum, and they're about 3.5 inches tall.

I'm thinking that we're going to start to "massage" the stockers and see what we can do, for now.

 

Yep, what he said. Mine fit great.

 

How tall are the valve covers, that you guys are running?

 

Moroso alum center bolt. Sorry, I don't know the height right now, but they are a bit taller than stock, plus I did a bit of cutting on the bolt boss just in case.