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

 

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.

 

They say it keeps the oil off the hot intake.

 

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?

 

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.

 

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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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.

 

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?

 

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

 

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.

 

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

 

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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