The slots work in conjunction with the road draft tube to evacuate combustible vapors from the crankcase. The slots draw in fresh air and the road draft tube provides the vacuum.
As long as the replacement valve cover has a breather on the fill cap all is good. It the cap is not of the breather type, it could cause engine oil contamination, sludge build-up, oil leaks, high fuel consumption, and other engine-damaging problems.

If it was me, I would have fixed the leak!


Phil
Moderator, The Engine Shop, Interiors and Project Journals

1952 Chevrolet 3100, Three on the Tree, 4:11 torque tube
Updated to: ‘59 235 w/hydraulic lifters, 12v w/alternator, HEI, PCV and Power front Disc Brakes
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