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alt63bird · 10-05-2020, 08:33 PM

OEM FE-series didn't use spreaders. The key to reducing leaks is to make sure the mounting surface/rim of the valve cover is F L A T - that may mean working over the area around the bolt holes with a hammer/dolly, use a vise and some wood blocks, etc, to work back into shape, and when installing do NOT overtighten them. Composition rubber/cork gaskets or neoprene gaskets may benefit from an application of non-hardening sealer, but generally the gaskets should seal if installed correctly. Did I remember to mention do NOT overtighten the bolts?

10-05-2020, 08:33 PM	#3
alt63bird Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: outside Omaha, NE Posts: 276	Re: FE valve cover hold downs OEM FE-series didn't use spreaders. The key to reducing leaks is to make sure the mounting surface/rim of the valve cover is F L A T - that may mean working over the area around the bolt holes with a hammer/dolly, use a vise and some wood blocks, etc, to work back into shape, and when installing do NOT overtighten them. Composition rubber/cork gaskets or neoprene gaskets may benefit from an application of non-hardening sealer, but generally the gaskets should seal if installed correctly. Did I remember to mention do NOT overtighten the bolts? __________________ Alan H. Tast AIA, LEED AP BD+C Technical Director/Past President-Editor-Publications Director, Vintage Thunderbird Club Int'l. (VTCI) http://www.vintagethunderbirdclub.net Author, "Thunderbird 1955-1966" & "Thunderbird 50 Years" 35+ year member, Crown Victoria Ass'n.