...replacing CHEAP parts, need suggestions!!

[CEE1NG_RED]

OK...my '67 with a '78 350 motor came with 'chrome' covers (oil pan, intake cover, timing cover). I want to replace it with quality covers that have thick flanges that will not warp or be distorted when screws are torqued (within specs). I had replaced the oil pan already with a DERALE brand, and now need to work on the other pieces. Any suggestions on quality products? Please LMK Thanks!!!

[69Rumbler]

When I had a 350 , all my parts were edelbrock good stuff

[kcsa75]

This is what I put on my 350. Replaced Edelbrock Signature Series.
Amazon.com: 1958-86 Chevy Small Block...

[Tx Firefighter]

There's a ton of guys out there installing new Goodwrench crate 350s and swapping the original GM engine tins to aftermarket stuff. It wouldn't be too hard to find some brand new genuine GM stuff that they were willing to part with.

[hugger6933]

I'm with Kevin. There are tons of crate motor guys around that dress their motors differently if you don't mind the stock black tin that the General puts on them. I think it is hard to beat the look of a clean painted orange motor done right it is one of the cheapest and prettiest upgrades that can be done under $50 bucks. Jim

[MARKDTN]

Originally Posted by hugger6933

I'm with Kevin. There are tons of crate motor guys around that dress their motors differently if you don't mind the stock black tin that the General puts on them. I think it is hard to beat the look of a clean painted orange motor done right it is one of the cheapest and prettiest upgrades that can be done under $50 bucks. Jim

I'll 3rd that

[Coley]

Originally Posted by MARKDTN

I'll 3rd that

Put me down as a 4th on this....LOL
I think the chrome valve cover and round/chrome air cleaner stuff has pretty worn itself completely out after 30-50 years.
Its so common it is really hard to consider it as custom or unique.
What strikes me now at 'open hood' events is when I see a really clean engine detailed in factory colors...even if its a hiPo job, giving it more of a sleeper look or approach. Also, even if they took custom (high) valve covers and detailed them in factory colors....very cool look.
My two bits.
Coley

[leftybass209]

I've had good results with the more expensive felt pro rubber and metal gasket under stamped steel valve covers. I agree with above. You don't need aluminum covers or oil pan, but they are an option.

[sKnNyPpY]

Originally Posted by kcsa75

This is what I put on my 350. Replaced Edelbrock Signature Series.
Amazon.com: 1958-86 Chevy Small Block 283-305-327-350-400 Tall Polished Aluminum Valve Covers - Full Finned: Automotive

I got the same ones from KMJ for about $60. Thick and straight. Just used Felpro gaskets and no leaks. I get lots of compliments on them.

[Acorn]

I suggest becoming a supporting member of this site and post a 'want to buy' ad. Heck you might even get some for free. There are some good people on this site!
Buying cheap chrome covers is a mistake you will only make once! I did. The first engine I ever built was when I was in high school. I read a couple Hot Rod magazines so I thought I knew everything there was to know about building a sbc. being on a minimum wage budget I bought some used made in china chrome valve and timing covers. Man I thought those things looked so cool! That is until I got the engine running....I tried every trick in the book but never could get them to stop leaking. I finally got so tired of the burnt oil smell and my dad complaining about the stains in the driveway that I finally had to buy back my original covers from the guy I sold them to. The worst part was the guy that I sold them to told me the chrome covers were a bad idea. It was embarrassing having to buy my old parts back but it was better than wasting my weekends on oil leaks!