Finish color between adapter plate and valve cover on 61 FI

[Mark S.]

Just a dumb question: I installed the FI adapter plate on the 61 283 block yesterday. What is the finish on the head between the adapter plate and valve cover? I appreciate the feedback? Mark

[Paul Y.]

Re: Finish color between adapter plate and valve cover on 61 FI

i believe that would be a dull silver paint to blend in,

[Mark S.]

Re: Finish color between adapter plate and valve cover on 61 FI

Thank you very much for the reply!

[Dennis C.]

Re: Finish color between adapter plate and valve cover on 61 FI

The head valley finish between intake manifold and valve covers with aluminum valve covers on C1's is natural or unpainted. There should also be some over spray of engine paint on the aluminum manifold ends.

With cast iron valve covers the head valley is painted orange.

[Mark S.]

Re: Finish color between adapter plate and valve cover on 61 FI

I have also been told by a judge that the valley between the valve covers and the adapter plate should be orange. If the valley between the valve covers and the adapter plate were natural; would that not make that area susceptible to rust?

[Dennis C.]

Re: Finish color between adapter plate and valve cover on 61 FI

I have also been told by a judge that the valley between the valve covers and the adapter plate should be orange. If the valley between the valve covers and the adapter plate were natural; would that not make that area susceptible to rust?

I can not speak to what other judges have said. I can speak to '58-'62 cars and we have observed many Bowtie cars to back up what is spelled out in the 61-62 Judging Manual 6th Edition. I have attached the relevant page and highlighted the specific section.

Any '58-62 car presented for judging with silver or orange paint on the head surface between the intake manifold and the aluminum valve cover will receive a point deduction. Cars with steel valve covers should be painted orange in this area.

As for rust, yes, I would agree. However, Chevy really wasn't concerned with this down the road. I typically recommend wiping the area with a light coat of oil during oil changes, same recommendation for the stamp pad.

[Mark S.]

Re: Finish color between adapter plate and valve cover on 61 FI

Thanks! I missed that in the manual!

[Dennis C.]

Re: Finish color between adapter plate and valve cover on 61 FI

One thing to remember is that all engine paint, regardless if it is missing or it should not be there, is judged on the first line of the judging sheet and not on the line for a specific part. That's why the description appears where it is in the manual.