Valve covers for base engine

[Barry A.]

My 59 base engine needs staggered pattern stamped steel valve covers. I know that many have replaced these with finned aluminum covers over the years (as was the case with mine by the original owner who replaced with "generic" finned covers (no Corvette script) sometime in the 60's.) I have learned through the forums and other research that although the correct cover has "Chevrolet" as script, and they need to be squared off on the ends and not sloping. Was the squared off version just for Corvettes? In trying to find a set I do not see repros at the big supply houses, Paragon apparently has them as "reconditioned" covers. Other than watching Ebay and other classifieds does anyone have any leads? Many thanks.

[John H.]

Re: Valve covers for base engine

My 59 base engine needs staggered pattern stamped steel valve covers. I know that many have replaced these with finned aluminum covers over the years (as was the case with mine by the original owner who replaced with "generic" finned covers (no Corvette script) sometime in the 60's.) I have learned through the forums and other research that although the correct cover has "Chevrolet" as script, and they need to be squared off on the ends and not sloping. Was the squared off version just for Corvettes? In trying to find a set I do not see repros at the big supply houses, Paragon apparently has them as "reconditioned" covers. Other than watching Ebay and other classifieds does anyone have any leads? Many thanks.

Barry -

As far as I know, the scripted stamped steel covers with the "sloping" ends weren't introduced until 1967, with parallel bolt holes; prior to that, all of the scripted stamped steel covers had squared-off ends, regardless of the carline application or bolt pattern. At least that's the way I understand it.

[Joe L.]

Re: Valve covers for base engine

Barry -

As far as I know, the scripted stamped steel covers with the "sloping" ends weren't introduced until 1967, with parallel bolt holes; prior to that, all of the scripted stamped steel covers had squared-off ends, regardless of the carline application or bolt pattern. At least that's the way I understand it.

John------


I agree. I think what may confuse some folks is the notion that the early cover ends were completely vertical. They were not. There was a very slight "slope" to them.