Hey everyone, I need to replace the valve cover gaskets on my '72 Delta 88 and was wondering if I should be going with rubber or cork?

 

It doesn't matter, they are both good gasket materials. It comes down to personal preference.

 

I always preferred rubber. It seems to be more reusable if you need to pull the valve covers later. I have some on my 54 that have steel inside the rubber. I have had to pull the valve covers several times and no problems. Cork has been used for years so it has to be a good material also.

 

The best are the rubber with rigid core, so they don't move where they shouldn't. Stock covers are easy to seal if straight. I like gluing them to cover with either RTV for cork or high temp contact cement with rubber.

 

I prefer the thicker rubber gaskets but any of them should work if you install them correctly and torque the bolts properly.

 

Thanks for the help!

 

I've had some cork gaskets weep oil when I use synthetic oils but I seldom use synthetics on the old Iron I drive anymore.... Tedd

 

I like the rubber with metal core. Cork seals well but as it compresses over time it needs re-tightened and hardens. As with all material, clean and smooth is key for a good seal. I personally stay away from additional sealants, but if surfaces are rough or uneven they can be needed. The best sealant I have ever used is the "Right Stuff". On modern equipment this is replacing gaskets altogether.

 

Oh, on valve covers and other sheet metal covers, I always flatten the area around bolt holes. The holes get puckered from previous tightening.