I've added the full gasket containment strips to my spare set of valve covers, so they now look like this:

Click to view attachment

However, I see that the heads, where they mate to the covers, are notched out to clear the rocker arms:

Click to view attachment

Do I need to notch the new strips on the valve covers somehow to match? I am concerned they will interfere with the rockers arms (especially as I wasn't able to get the bends super-tight in the corners).

Thank you in advance!
Matt

Why add this? Millions of type 4 engines on the road in the past 50 years. Gaskets working just fine.

It is not uncommon mode for race engines especially if built for high rpm.
The crankcase pressure and the oil build up in the heads can push the gasket out of place or suck it in.
We usually only added tabs in several places rather than the long strips all the way around.

I believe the the machined cutouts are actually to allow the push rod tubes to be removes/installed and are not for clearance for the rocker.

Test fit the cover with some modeling clay on the metal strip and term the engine over by hand or turn the engine slowly.

Jim

Great, thanks Jim!

Is it just me, but those rockers don't look stock?
I'd say yes, there is reduced clearance, I'd do the mod and trim the gasket accordingly.
Mark

Another comment from the peanut gallery:

Those "spot" welds don't look like they penetrated well. I'd be worried about one of those shiny little metal pearls to come lose and make its way where it doesn't belong.

If the label on the can says "worms", don't open it up.

Ansbacher

Are we talking peanuts or worms here?

The welds are solid -- because I didn't do them, haha.

I like it, will be doing similar at some point… ‘cause anything to help a type IV leak less is worth doing, especially something so simple, JMHO. I’d definitely notch that area though.


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