Thread: Restoring Rusty
View Single Post
Old 01-25-2019, 10:46 AM   #5908
MikeB
Senior Member
 
MikeB's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2000
Location: North Texas
Posts: 3,432
Re: Restoring Rusty

I had some Trans-Dapt valve covers once on Pro-Topline heads. Those covers required around 5/16"-3/8" gasket thickness to prevent leaks. This was due to the stamped gasket surfaces being too narrow and "off" by around 1/8". Great product, huh? Ended up going with a pair of cast aluminum covers, and was able to use a single gasket. BTW, I like the Fel-Pro gaskets with cork-rubber material bonded to both sides of a metal core.

I also had a fit issue with one of their alternator brackets where the holes were off by 1/4" or so. The Chinese QA standard must be +/- 1/4". I remember back when Trans-Dapt stuff was made in the USA and actually fit. Sad state of affairs these days.

On a final note, I have found the GM-licensed ProForm valve covers to fit like gloves. Had some chrome ones for over 10 years on a truck that sat outside, and never had any signs of rust trying to peek through. The metal is also heavier gauge than the cheapies. Made in Taiwan, as I recall. That's light years better than made in China, and applies to just any aftermarket parts -- metal panels, electrical switches, bumpers, etc.
__________________
Mike
1969 C10 LWB -- owned for 34 years. 350/TH350, 3.08 posi, 1st Gen Vintage Air, AAW wiring harness, 5-lug conversion, 1985 spindles and brakes.
1982 C10 SWB -- sold
1981 C10 Silverado LWB -- sold, but wish I still had it!
1969 C10 (not the current one) that I bought in the early 1980s. Paid $1200; sold for $1500 a few years later. Just a hint at the appreciation that was coming.
Retired as a factory automation products salesman.
Worked part-time over the years for an engine builder and a classic car repair shop.
Member here for 23 years! This is the very first car/truck Internet forum I joined. I still used a dial-up modem back then!
MikeB is offline   Reply With Quote