1963 Corvette 327ci/340hp finned aluminum valve covers

[Kenneth M.]

Is there an explanation regarding the vertical casting line through the letter "O" (cOrvette)? there are so many stories.

Are these valve covers considered factory original for a 1963 340hp? with the casting line?

[Bob R.]

Re: 1963 Corvette 327ci/340hp finned aluminum valve covers

The only story I have ever heard is the mold broke and the repair left the casting flaw. I believe it occurred in the middle of the 66 year so it is not correct for your 63.

[Harry S.]

Re: 1963 Corvette 327ci/340hp finned aluminum valve covers

Agree with Bob. The flaw was almost invisible when the mold broke. As time went by the flaw became very noticeable.

[Joe L.]

Re: 1963 Corvette 327ci/340hp finned aluminum valve covers

All-----

This circumstance with the flawed valve cover also gives us some insight into manufacturing processes for Corvette components. These valve covers were a die or permanent mold casting. Essentially, we know, for certain, that all original 1966-67 Corvette aluminum valve covers as well as later SERVICE valve covers sold for 30+ years were made from a SINGLE mold. It's also very possible that the "7 fin" valve covers dating back to late 1959 were made from that same mold.

[Tracy C.]

Re: 1963 Corvette 327ci/340hp finned aluminum valve covers

All-----

This circumstance with the flawed valve cover also gives us some insight into manufacturing processes for Corvette components. These valve covers were a die or permanent mold casting. Essentially, we know, for certain, that all original 1966-67 Corvette aluminum valve covers as well as later SERVICE valve covers sold for 30+ years were made from a SINGLE mold. It's also very possible that the "7 fin" valve covers dating back to late 1959 were made from that same mold.

You are correct Joe. (no surprise here) Another factoid to consider that assuming 40 solid lifter cars a day and a 3 shifts of production, that single mold was spitting them out at a rate of one every 18 minutes just to keep up with production. Spares for over the counter sales on top of that too..

That is some very extreme temperature swings at a rapid pace.

tc

[Dave H.]

Re: 1963 Corvette 327ci/340hp finned aluminum valve covers

All-----

This circumstance with the flawed valve cover also gives us some insight into manufacturing processes for Corvette components. These valve covers were a die or permanent mold casting. Essentially, we know, for certain, that all original 1966-67 Corvette aluminum valve covers as well as later SERVICE valve covers sold for 30+ years were made from a SINGLE mold. It's also very possible that the "7 fin" valve covers dating back to late 1959 were made from that same mold.

Would there be a different mold for the older staggered hole covers? When did 7 find start?

[Joe L.]

Re: 1963 Corvette 327ci/340hp finned aluminum valve covers

Would there be a different mold for the older staggered hole covers? When did 7 find start?

Dave------


I'm sure the earlier "staggered" bolt aluminum covers were made from a different mold than later. The 7 fin covers began during the 1959 model year.

[Jim D.]

Re: 1963 Corvette 327ci/340hp finned aluminum valve covers

Would there be a different mold for the older staggered hole covers? When did 7 find start?

7 fin valve covers were used beginning with the 58 model year and had a staggered bolt pattern.

[Loren L.]

Re: 1963 Corvette 327ci/340hp finned aluminum valve covers

Isn't this information in the JG? Or is it wrong in the JG? Because of the nature of the question, he's proved he's going to need one.....

[Jim D.]

Re: 1963 Corvette 327ci/340hp finned aluminum valve covers

Isn't this information in the JG? Or is it wrong in the JG? Because of the nature of the question, he's proved he's going to need one.....

Yes, the correct info. is in the JG.