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1st Gen Ram Tech'93 & older Rams: This section is for TECHNICAL discussions only, that involve 1993 Rams and older. For any non-tech discussions, please direct your attention to the "General discussion/NON-tech" sub sections.
Anyone replaced the valve covers on their 318? Mine have the 5 bolt pattern. Most replacement valve covers appear to have 1 hole/port on each valve cover - I've got 3 holes total - 1 for oil cap, 1 for air vent/breather, 1 for pcv valve. Really like to hear from anyone that can offer me a turn-key solution, particularly anyone that has done this before. Replacing my engine with an identical remanufactured long block. The valve covers are FILTHY - and I really can't get to the underside of the baffles, or I'd consider cleaning them up. Any help appreciated.
it is really not that hard to clean up or re-finish stock valve covers but if you do just make sure to get all new seals. i usually sandblast mine after pressure washing any crud off them. make sure to save the old gaskets if you do. it make securing the valve covers to a block of wood easier. as far as aftermarket valve covers go i am pretty sure most i have seen require modification to suite most applications. most usually only have 1 hole per side. i got a set on my 1 vehicle and 1 side has the pcv and the other side has the breather. to fill the oil i pop the breather out to add oil and put it back in when done. if you do paint your own valve covers make sure to use engine enamel since it is usually oil and gas resistant.
Last edited by crazzywolfie; Aug 8, 2022 at 08:24 PM.
Problem with the stock(sheet metal) style valve covers are they leak. All my motors have cast aluminum covers that keep even pressure around the gasket sealing much better. I like the looks also, Have a look on summit to see what's available. I have the vintage M/T covers but you can get the mopar performance ones that are basically the same thing.
Those look great ! on the outside...my problem was getting to the dirt on the underside of the baffle (the part that you can't see). I was trying to avoid going down the "rabbit hole" with a set of new covers, but that looks like the route I'll be taking. Thank you for the post!!!!
how much dirt is there on the inside? if it is just carbon or normal engine stuff and not actual dirt i wouldn't worry about it too much. could maybe even see if there is a shop that would be willing to run it through there parts washer. the parts washers generally steam clean things as good as they will get.
New valve covers for 1988 Ram w/ 318
