valve covers

[jeepdaddy65]

I have a AMC 304 in my 72 CJ5 , had a bad oil leak coming from the valve covers. They are the aluminum finned covers. Found someone at some time over tightened them to the point of cracking off a piece where the bolt goes and epoxyed them together. Does anyone know where I can find affordable valve covers, the prices I'm seeing are $AMC 150 to $300 online. sure wish I could fix the ones I have they look real good on the Jeep

 

[CJ]

The cheapest are stamped steel. As you have seen the aluminum ones are expensive.
Summit has generic chrome steel for $44 -->> https://www.summitracing.com/parts/spe-5275/overview/make/american-motors
Or Edelbrock for $52 -->> https://www.summitracing.com/parts/edl-4431/overview/make/american-motors

If you don't care about looks a scrap yard or U Pull Itwould probably sell you a set for $5 or $10

 

[Torxhead]

If you want to try a used set, or anybody that has a CJ should know about these guys:J&W Auto Wreckers: New & Used Jeep Parts - Home

 

[jeepdaddy65]

thanks for the info and link. just ordered the stamped steel covers, might try that alumiweld on the original covers, don't have anything to lose they are already broke. Thanks again for your help

 

[Hedgehog]

Have them welded up properly by a decent aluminum welder. It really shouldn't cost that much. Then sand'em flat either with a belt sander or a flat board with sand paper glued to it. No, I'm not kidding. Aluminum sands fairly easily and a decent fit should be very doable. My jeep mechanic ALWAYS puts things like valve covers and differential covers on a belt sander to make sure they are flat. Even the most flat feeling cover will sand round rings around the bolt holes before becoming really flat. Just don't go at it like a monkey in heat.

 

[djnineball]

Have them welded up properly by a decent aluminum welder. It really shouldn't cost that much. Then sand'em flat either with a belt sander or a flat board with sand paper glued to it. No, I'm not kidding. Aluminum sands fairly easily and a decent fit should be very doable. My jeep mechanic ALWAYS puts things like valve covers and differential covers on a belt sander to make sure they are flat. Even the most flat feeling cover will sand round rings around the bolt holes before becoming really flat. Just don't go at it like a monkey in heat.

very true. every time i change the oil in my 911 the covers get a quick run on the belt sander.

 

[IOPort51]

Are you missing a chunk??

 

[jeepdaddy65]

No.I have all the pieces that are broke off, going to try and use alumiweld when I get some free time. Got the new stamped steel covers in the mail, so I hope they'll work out

 

[Lumpy Grits]

Don't waste your time with the alum-weld.
LG