I have a set of aluminum fabricated valve covers and am having a hell of a time trying to get them to seal up. The main problem I think is that the tubes that guide the bolts aren't lined up right with the heads. When I install them, I get a gap about 1/8" that lets oil out. If I flip them around, I get 1/4" gap. So my question is can I cut those tubes off? I think if I did, I could get the covers to move around good enough to cover those gaps.

Also, what should I use for a gasket? I tried using stock gm but they seem too short and I cant get them to sit on the head while I install the covers. I would use RTV but want to make sure this will be ok

 

Do what ever you have to do to get them to sit flat on the head.Saw,file,cuss,ect.Then get you some THICK cork gaskets for a small block and glue them on with 3M Trim cement.Turn them on the gasket and let them dry(30 minutes) Then install them and see what you have got.No silicone unless there is a gap,then put it on where the gap is.Put it on thick and let it set up for an hour or so and then see what you have.
If they are custom covers you might think about sending them back.

 

Cork gaskets? I'll have to try that. So do you think I can cut the guides off? If I did this I would think I can cure the gap thing

 

Well,not being there to see them,I can't say.But if that looks like it will work to you--Go For It.Those gaskets are about 3/8 thick so they should seal if less thah 1/16" gap.You may have to shop around on the phone to find them but they can be had.

 

Who made 'em? Send 'em back.