Exhaust: Recommendation for Rocker cover gasket

[LovelandJoe]

Over the winter I'm going to dress up the engine compartment on the 64 Hawk. I plan to put on the the finned rocker cover from Studebaker International.
They list two gaskets, a composition or a neoprene. I can't remember which one some of the members had problems getting them to seal properly.
Also looking for the torque value for the covers.
Thanks
Loveland Joe

[StudeRich]

The Neoprene ones USED to most people's preference, but since that Catalog was created in 2014 those have become NLA.

The good news is the "Cork" ones are now FelPro Neoprene impregnated Cork and work almost as well.

Snug with a 5-6 Inch Combination Wrench works for me, use NEW Grommets and do not over-tighten.

Seal them with your favorite Gasket Cement at least on the Cover sides.

[LovelandJoe]

Thanks Rich

[jrlemke]

All the gaskets I found were too short (made to stretch to fit the tin covers) and didn't fit the aluminum ones. I made my own from the cork/neoprene sheets. I glued a 1/8" sheet to each cover, then glued another 1/8" sheet to that. I then cut around the inside first then around the outside. I used silicon-seal gasket sealer for the glue. Let it dry for a day or two then put a thin bead of black (non-hardening permatex) on the edge of the cyl. head and used new grommets, stainless washers, and stainless acorn nuts. You may have to stack a couple washers or shorten the studs slightly to put enough load to press the covers enough. I did both! I've had no leaks in the two years I've had mine on. -Jim

[52-fan]

There was a thread on here that mentioned using a type of Oldsmobile gasket that had a metal stiffener on aluminum Studebaker valve covers. I don't remember the details. The people commenting said that they worked better that Studebaker specific gaskets.

[altair]

The torque listed is 2 - 2-1/2 ft lbs which is about 30 in lbs, not very much. As Rich says don't over tighten.
I used the fel-pro cork, sealed perfect with no additional sealer.

[bezhawk]

Ask for EARLY 50s OLDSMOBILE gaskets. Neoprene with a steel insert. (lamination)

http://www.goodvibesracing.com/Valve_Cover_Gaskets.htm#Olds