Valve Cover Reinforcement Plates

[Number4]

Did all these 4.0's come with these reinforcement plates? I don't have them, or can't find them. Looking at my old valve covers, it really appears they were never there.

Would it be best to pick some up from the wrecker before installing the valve covers?

 

[tidmarshsmiths5]

Did all these 4.0's come with these reinforcement plates? I don't have them, or can't find them. Looking at my old valve covers, it really appears they were never there.

Would it be best to pick some up from the wrecker before installing the valve covers?

My 1991 has them. My next "big job"...I need to put valve cover gaskets on but dread all the other stuff I'm liable to break in the process...

(lost photo)

As for necessity? I don't know.

 

[2stroke]

newer ones used a metal/rubber hybrid valve cover gasket. Felpro makes gaskets for these that use a hard plastic frame that works great. I have used straight RTV in the past with success, but like many others, I have found it a huge PITA later. The only reason to use RTV is if you absolutely have to. If you know in advance, buy gaskets. Avoid cork.

 

[natenkiki2004]

Pretty sure both my 1991 and 1994 have them. I would get them if I didn't. If you absolutely cannot find them, I'd use a good layer of RTV and not torque the bolts too tight.

 

[FR-425]

Tom Morana makes one that goes all the way round... ..!

 

[2stroke]

For all that guy offers, I cant believe there is not a single aftermarket set of valve covers for the 4.0. I mean, he offers a 4bbl carburetor intake, which kills me inside just to know someone would convert a good fuel injected motor to a barely controlled fuel leaked called a carburetor.

 

[natenkiki2004]

For all that guy offers, I cant believe there is not a single aftermarket set of valve covers for the 4.0. I mean, he offers a 4bbl carburetor intake, which kills me inside just to know someone would convert a good fuel injected motor to a barely controlled fuel leaked called a carburetor.

I wasn't going to say anything but it seems like a lot of that stuff is a rip-off. There's a "dress-up" kit that includes chrome nuts, stainless washers and "studs" for $150. Even if you went to a high-priced place, that hardware can't be more than $50.

 

[Number4]

I was shocked at how much the VC reinforcements rings were. $95/set. And why is it that exhaust manifold bolts seem non existent? You'd think a shop has never pulled one of these engines.

 

[malohnes]

They do come stock, but I've lost a few. I've searched for a supplier for the those VC bolt tabs and Ive never found one.

I was shocked at how much the VC reinforcements rings were. $95/set. And why is it that exhaust manifold bolts seem non existent? You'd think a shop has never pulled one of these engines.

Morana Racing stuff is pricey, but quality. The hassle of rtv'ing now and cleaning later on can be worth it...