SS aluminum valve covers

dwllacey

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Installed new valve covers today, what is the best way to remove oily spots and smudges from the unpolished areas?
 
If you are talking between the raised ribs some carb clean on a rag tightly wrapped around a screwdriver head... Or with a toothbrush will get into the rough cast surface.
 
valve covers

Try using some wd40 or brake clean in the area and then compressed air to dry it up immediately while holding a rag on the other side to collect the spatter. It may take a small brush to loosen it while it's wet, repeat if necessary.

Brian
 
Painted or not? EnviroTech Alumabrite?

I'l need to look at mine again... I've seen a few versions. Polished, Pure cast without coating or paint and cast + paint.

I have no BTDT, but did some googling considering your question and the fact that simple green and some other products did less than I wanted on some Al rims in the past.

Agreed that agitation (small brushes and/or jet spray are preferred), but once in the bay...I'd be leery about spitting lots of these chems around.

I haven't tried these guy's products yet, but may be willing, considering they seem to be fellow car gear heads and others have some good experience.

Still use caution inside the bay. Maybe tape strips to the top of the painted / polished ribs before scrubbing below; with rags as suggested at the ends (yeah, good look at firewall...)

http://www.envirotechcoating.com/products/aluma-brite-aluminum-cleaner/
 
SS Aluminum Valve Covers

Thanks for the help, I used "Goof Off" spray and they cleaned up beautifully. Is there a clear coat that can be applied to them that will handle the heat?
 
Still Nope

Well over the pond in Aussie land there is a spray can
VHT engine enamel clear gloss withstands 550 c.

Surely you have the same or similar in the USA

Tried them with poor results. They age, stain & yellow up rather quickly.:(
 
Yes, Eastwood sells a clear for aluminum good to 400, called Diamond Clear. The downside is it changes the appearance from very white aluminum to a gray. I had this same experience powder coating clear on a finned oil pan once. I used the product on my bell housing because of the inability to clean it with anything other than a pressure washer. But it's a personal choice on other areas.

Thanks for the help, I used "Goof Off" spray and they cleaned up beautifully. Is there a clear coat that can be applied to them that will handle the heat?
 
SS Aluminum valve covers

Will TIGER lettered valve covers work with Harlan Sharp roller rockers ? Presently I am using double gaskets with the original chrome valve covers.
 
Clearance

The H S roller rockers are boxy and my engine builder had to grind off a corner of four of them so as not to have contact at front and rear of each valve cover. Not an elegant solution but has been trouble free.

Rick
 
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