Trojan Boat Forum

I have a 1976 Chrysler 318 reverse rotation rebuilt with only 281 hours. I replaced the valve cover gaskets becuase the boat sat for a while and the others dried out. I can't seem to get the starboard cover to stop leaking in the back. It is only a few drops around the bolt head and maybe a drop or two on the block itself. Should I just expect that or are there any secrets outside of Indian Head.

Thanks as always,

John

Could the cover be warped from overtightening? Happens sometimes.

old S.B. Chevy's use to do the same thing maybe you could try the same fix we did to them. Take the cover off and turn it upside down and rest the flanges on two 2x4's and tap on the inside edge of the flange to bend it back square. With a mallet not a metal hammer or look for a set of bolt on spreaders that go on the outside they spread the torque out more from the bolts to push on the gasket more.

Good advice above. You might also want to try the silicone rubber gaskets instead of the cork based ones. They seal a lot better.

Thanks for the advice. I will give it a shot

Danny Bailey wrote:Good advice above. You might also want to try the silicone rubber gaskets instead of the cork based ones. They seal a lot better.

Agree 100%.. due to the tilt of boat engines these are a must in my opinion. Unlike cars there tends to be a pool of oil in contact with the aft end of those seals.... of course car drivers in San Francisco may see the same thing