427 Valve Covers

Nantucket427 · #1 (**permalink**) 10-21-2003, 07:10 AM

Which ones should I buy and where?
I need clearance for roller rocker arms, holes for PCV fitting and a breather with baffles built-in. I would like to stay as original looking as possible.

DKing · #2 (**permalink**) 10-21-2003, 01:50 PM

Nantucket427: I typically see the chromed steel valve covers on the 427, and the black wrinkle "LeMans" valve covers on 428's. I'm not sure if there is a difference between the Cobras built for racing (427) or for street (427 SO, 427, or 428 PI). This is based upon what I've read (or looked at) in my collection of Cobra books.

If you're a stickler for detail (as I am), you might try to find a copy of the Cobra restorer's guide. Now out of print, on Amazon for about $80.

I would have thought that Southern would have had a handle on that question, and built your engine accordingly.

I'm in the planning process for a 428 build, myself. Thinking I'll go for the SA Shelby Cobra here shortly.

Nantucket427 · #3 (**permalink**) 10-21-2003, 02:16 PM

The valve covers on the car were not taken care of by the previous owners and are rusting. My quest is not only to get new covers but to fix a high oil usage problem. The present covers are not baffled in any way and the PCV sucks the oil ( About a quart every 100 miles)right out of the engine. Bill Parham has always been helpful and I didn't call him on this problem.

joea · #4 (**permalink**) 10-21-2003, 02:16 PM

Nantucket427,
I too am looking for valve covers that will clear my Erson's Roller Rocker assembly. The Ford motorsports "Cobra LeMans" covers may or may not clear. I have heard stories from both sides. When they do not clear, most people use a second valve cover gasket. This tends leak sooner and may require longer bolts or the use of studs.



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