I think my car is probably the only series III that never had a stakedown kit installed. I've noticed several kits out there, some with self tapping screws and others with machine screws that need a tapped thread.

Wondering which is the preferred kit and also if either kit has longer screws requiring drilling through to the bottom side making it harder to catch all the aluminum bits. If a guide is lifted, should I just bash it down with a BFH?

Since I will have the covers off, what are the correct clearances for a cold engine?

Also, this engine has always leaked from the valve covers. Is there an improved gasket/install technique out there to help eliminate valve cover leaks?

 

Like any car you need to use the proper sequence and torque value when reinstalling the valve cover and gasket to prevent bending or warping of the cover. I should also mention that a clean and dry surface is also part of the equation.

 

Sounds like there is very little torque on the valve cover nuts. It looks like it's more about cleaning both surfaces and using a good fiber gasket if you can find one. Unfortunately, the aluminum surfaces look to be somewhat scratched up from previous work done on the engine. I'll probably have to use some permatex in the right spots to hopeully fill in the scratches.

I'll also repalce the copper washers and the rubber half moons while I'm at it. Hopefully that will make things leak free at least for a while.