Ted-do you sell the thicker cork gaskets or can you suggest a source? Thanks. Harold
Note-if you see any of my posts you will quickly realize I am new to the repair side of the Y block. I have had cars with Y block's for years but mainly write a check. The forum has been great and is fun.Thanks for helping me get in.
I spent 6 months in your area in the early 70's---Ft Hood. Tx.

I learned this from a friend of mine and it worked perfectly so I documented it.

Valve cover gaskets (Permatex Ultra Black maximum oil resistance #82180)
Use ATV Silicone sealer on valve cover side, secure gasket with duct tape. Place cover on flat surface, weight down and let dry for 24 hours. Torque to 2-2.5 foot lbs (24 to 30 inch lbs) torque to 24” lbs easier to remove





1955 312 T-Bird Warwick, NY

Would there be a torque setting to use on the baby bird aluminum covers? Maybe over thinking just want to due it right. I do remember having to recheck after motor warm up.

About 8 years ago I purchased a pair of rubber/neoprene valve cover gaskets fron Mummert that still seal very well after multiple r&r.  They stay in place on the older non lettered steel valve covers with out any sealer. Not sure if they are still available? 

64F100 57FAIRLANE500

I guess I follow suit with the rest of the crowd, but if you want to see some pictures and a dedicated blog post to restoring and installing a set of these valve cover then go here:

https://www.hotrodreverend.com/post/1955-ford-part-111-valve-cover-restoration


Daniel Jessup

Lancaster, California

aka "The Hot Rod Reverend"
check out the 1955 Ford Fairlane build at www.hotrodreverend.com

Thanks to all for information Great source and people!.  .

I do similar as Slumlord does.  For the aluminum valve covers, I use the thicker cork gaskets with 3M cement used sparingly on the cover itself to stick the gasket and white grease on the cylinder head side of the gasket.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

I just replaced mine a week ago. I use Permatex #2 on the rocker cover, let it sit 5-10 minutes, then set on the cork style gaskets. By the look of them the original engine assembler 11 years ago did the same thing. 

56 Vic, B'Ville 200 MPH Club Member, So Cal.

I always use 3M weatherstrip cement to glue the cork gasket to the valve cover and a light coat of grease on the bottom. This seals well and lets you remove and replace the valve cover several times without having to replace the gasket.  

thank for the information