Valve Cover Replacement

[dagnabbitt]

My BPE 355 had intake gasket problems after less than 5000 miles - that's another story, and yes their warranty people are helping me with it - but while I have the top of the engine off, I am thinking of replacing the "Blueprint" valve covers.

The chrome on them is pitting already, and I would prefer a powder coated valve cover anyway. I know others feel the same because I have seen like-new Blueprint covers for sale on the forum. I am wondering if anyone with this engine has changed their covers and what they went with. I would like to keep the "PCV hole on one/breather and oil fill on the other" configuration and that seems to limit my options. Thanks in advance.

[Dead Parrot]

Since you like the layout of those, look into having the failing chrome removed and that set powder coated. Otherwise, look for a set of OEM covers. Still a fair number of tired 305s being retired complete with a set of valve covers.

[dagnabbitt]

That is a good idea, I will probably do that. Still going to look for new ones, too, though.

[JJH Jimmy]

I have the same engine and swapped out the valve covers before I installed my engine. Those heads are drilled for center bolt valve covers so I got some stock Vortec valve covers from GM parts direct. They were like $30 a piece.

[dagnabbitt]

They came drilled for center bolt valve covers?

Jeez, I have to take another look at mine when I get back to the shop. That opens up a lot of options.

[biketopia]

I ditched my crappy BPE chrome covers as well. Picked up a set of cast aluminum covers at the swap meet for $25 and scuffed em up and bolted them down. But yes, the heads should be drilled for both valve cover styles, I'd recommend center bolt as they seem to seal up better.