defiant1

Anyone have any idea the thickness of the valley pan gaskets for a SBO? Is there any difference in the aftermarket valley pan thickness vs. the factory?

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Allan R

I seriously doubt that. Haven't heard anyone describe issues with aftermarket valley pans.

69CutlassAlex

Is there any benefit using the valley pan opposed to just a regular 2 piece gasket? Both times I've pulled the 455 Ive shelled out the 25-30 dollars for the valley pan, just curious if its worth it or if its necessary.

455man

They say it keeps the oil off the hot intake.

Allan R

It's not big money to spend considering the value of your engine. Why do you think Olds engineers designed it that way if not to serve a purpose?

Fun71

I haven't seen any issues with using the 2 piece composition gaskets. Be aware that the good one (Mr Gasket Ultraseal) is 25-30 dollars, depending upon where you purchase it. No cost savings but it is a better gasket to use with an aftermarket aluminum intake manifold and it's easier to install.

defiant1

I noticed the ultraseals (.060") I used pushed the intake manifold up higher causing the intake manifold bolts to touch the inner most side of the bolt holes. I am assuming the valley pan gasket will be thinner, but I have not seen any numbers to substantiate that...

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455man

I'd be willing to guess at less than .020" for the valley pan. I have an old one at home I'll try to measure it tonight.

69CutlassAlex

I have the aftermarket Edelbrock 455 Performer and I use the Valley Pan. Both times I've installed/reinstalled the intake, there is a small portion of the head showing all the way down on each side that I feel with my stock intake did not show or maybe I just didnt notice it. Maybe it rides a little lower?

69CutlassAlex

Good Call, it also keeps my aluminum intake nice and clean on the bottom, I would assume it also helps with cooling(minimal).

Fun71

Yes, by quite a bit. Remember, the composition gasket will crush so its installed thickness will be less that it is out of the box.

455man

I measured .017 for the valley pan gasket. That's on the flat part not the ridges. It's a used gasket.

defiant1

Thank you. That is definitely thinner than the ultraseals. I should have a better seal all the way around and not have any mystery vacuum leaks.

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