Seeing a lot of opinions on this one. I'm going to install the Edelbrock 2151 intake. I'll be blocking the exhaust crossover so i'm wondering if the valley pan is necessary. Edelbrock recommends using their 7284 intake gaskets. To valley pan or not to valley pan???? That is the question. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

It's really your choice. It won't be detrimental to use the valley pan style gasket, but be aware that if the aluminum intake manifold sealing flanges are not flat, there could be leaks. The composition style gaskets may seal up better in that situation.

 

As Kenneth said, the Edelbrock composition gaskets are a more secure choice.

If you are considering the valley pan gasket because you want to keep the manifold cooler, then cut off the port portions and leave tabs that will steady the remaining part of the valley pan in its original position. That way you will have the good gaskets and the benefit of the valley pan.

 

I like this idea. Think it would be ok to just cut the old valley pan? It's clean and straight.

 

Absolutely. The most important things are to make sure you don't have metal shards on the cut edges and then wipe it down again with clean solvent before placing in the valley.

 

If your blocking the crossovers the valley pan is really not going to make a difference. Either way, throw the rubber ends in the trash and use RTV in their place front and rear.

 

Agreed. The pan is to prevent oil from getting onto the bottom of the exhaust crossover and cooking due to the 1100+ degree exhaust gases, not to keep the "hot" oil that splashes on the bottom of the intake manifold from heating it.

 

Thanks everyone for the great advice. Really want to make sure this rebuild is done 100% correct and the knowledge on this site is remarkable!