I need to remove the valve covers on my 455. I haven't pulled the covers since I bought it last year and want to see what condition I have. On the driver's side, there is very little room between the rear of the valve cover and the disc brake booster. The valve covers are M/T ribbed. I find it impossible to get the valve cover off. Has anyone encountered this same issue? Do I have to remove the brake booster first? Any tips would be much appreciated. Thanks

 

I ended up with a smaller diameter brake booster to solve the problem.

 

If the valve covers are ribbed, they are aftermarket, and are probably taller. You may have to remove the booster.

 

Remove the lower bolts, and loosen the upper bolts on the booster. It should give you enough room to sneak it out when you lift up the booster.
Jim

 

Geesh! Thanks but it is not what I wanted to hear. I believe my car started life with a 350 cu.in. Could this problem also be caused by a 455 transplant? I guess I'm really wondering if the 350's had a larger diameter brake booster than the 455's. I think replacing the booster with a smaller diameter one might be in order. Thanks for your comments.

 

Is your car a cloned 442 from a Cutlass?

 

Brake boosters are the same. The factory big block cars used "notched" valve covers to facilitate removal, though normal flat ones can be worked in and out with the booster in place. Again, your problem is that you have aftermarket covers that are taller than stock, since the ribs stick up higher than the stock sheet metal covers. Either pull the booster or pull the engine.

 

Wait until you try to replace rocker arms and pushrods on a 455 with A/C.

 

Valve springs and seals, in the car, w/air is even more fun!!

 

Been there done that...wish I had Vintage Air...