Re: engine guys...Valve seals?

Posted by PackardV8 On 2008/9/15 21:44:24

"channels were filled with what appeared to be remnants of former valve cover gaskets"

Probably NOT gasket material. INSPECT THE REMANATS CLOSELY !!! Are the y like hard black plastic pieces about the size of a corn kernel with a SMOOTH slightly curved side????
Most likely they are the UMBRELLA valve seal that has broken up. Probably some of them stuck in the drain bacl holes too. Be sure to run a rod down the drain back holes allthe way down about 12-16 inches. When u pull the oil pan u will most likely find the pieces there too.

USE a GOOD lite source and look AT THE VALVE STEMS. U will most likely see the broken umbrella seals. Poke at them with a dull object to see how hard they are. They should be real soft. THis is NOT ez to do because of the valve spring but it CAN be done with time and patience. I've done it.