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When looking at the bottom end of my 235, there isn't really any direct paths from the valve cover to crankcase.
"direct paths" for oil return from under the valve cover to the oil pan?
Sorry if I misunderstand your statement, and sorry if my response is totally incorrect (or, if I am totally missing your point): oil that is under the valve cover drains-down behind the push-rod side cover through the push-rod holes through the head. I think there are two drain holes to the pan behind the push rod cover, between/behind lifter-journals 2&3 and 10&11?
