I know the side cover uses a gasket. A friend suggested using a gasket maker but I want to make sure whatever I do lasts.

Ol' Roy's engine side cover is seeping oil all along the bottom flange and the valve cover also has leaks toward the rear. I intend to replace the valve cover gasket and adjust the valves while I'm in there.

This is a 1951 216 with the 2-bolt valve cover. Do the bolts have rubber seals under their heads?

When I'm ready to adjust the valves, I'm sure I'll have some questions about the paired cylinder method but in the meantime I want to get the proper parts and supplies assembled for the leak repair. I also intend to paint the parts while they're off.

There are a couple valve cover gaskets available: Mahle / Clevite - 7/32" = .22", Victor Reinz - 5/32" = .15" , FelPro - 5/32"

I'm inclined to go with the thicker Mahle/Clevite gasket but I'll do whatever you guys say. I intend to attach the gasket to the head with rtv or similar and just grease the top for easy removal of the cover in the future. Does the extra 1/16" make a difference?

While we're at it, what about the oil pan gasket? The three brands all look about the same except for small differences in price. All are cork-rubber. Felpro Blue Stripe, Victor Reinz, Mahle-Clevite

Last edited by Otto Skorzeny; 09/11/2026 2:21 PM.
1950 Chevrolet 3100 (Ol' Roy)

1939 Packard Standard Eight Coupe (The Phantom) | 1956 Cadillac Coupe de Ville (The Bismarck) | 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 coupe |1966 Ford Mustang (Little Red) | 1969 Pontiac GTO (The Dishpit) I 1979 Ford F-100 | 1976 Ford F-150 (Big Red) | 1995 Ford F-150 (Newt)