How tall are tall valve covers?
When it comes to engine customization and performance upgrades, tall valve covers are a popular choice among car enthusiasts. But what exactly are tall valve covers, and how tall are they compared to standard ones? In this article, we’ll explore the dimensions, purpose, and benefits of tall valve covers to help you understand if they’re the right fit for your vehicle.
What Are Tall Valve Covers?
Tall valve covers are aftermarket engine components designed to provide additional clearance for high-performance valve train components, such as roller rockers or stud girdles. These covers are typically used in modified engines where the stock valve covers may not provide enough space for upgraded parts.
How Tall Are They?
The height of tall valve covers varies depending on the manufacturer and the specific application. However, they are generally about 1 to 1.5 inches taller than standard valve covers. For example:
- Standard valve covers typically measure around 2.5 to 3 inches in height.
- Tall valve covers can range from 3.5 to 4.5 inches in height.
It’s important to check the exact dimensions provided by the manufacturer to ensure compatibility with your engine and any other components, such as the intake manifold or carburetor.
Why Choose Tall Valve Covers?
There are several reasons why car enthusiasts and mechanics opt for tall valve covers:
- Increased Clearance: They provide the extra space needed for larger or more complex valve train components.
- Improved Performance: By accommodating high-performance parts, tall valve covers can contribute to better engine efficiency and power output.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Many tall valve covers come in stylish designs and finishes, adding a custom look to your engine bay.
Considerations Before Installing Tall Valve Covers
Before upgrading to tall valve covers, keep the following in mind:
- Compatibility: Ensure that the taller covers won’t interfere with other engine components, such as the intake manifold or brake booster.
- Gasket Fitment: Use the correct gaskets to prevent oil leaks and ensure a proper seal.
- Hood Clearance: Verify that your vehicle’s hood has enough clearance to accommodate the taller covers.
Conclusion
Tall valve covers are an excellent choice for those looking to upgrade their engine’s performance or achieve a custom look under the hood. With heights typically ranging from 3.5 to 4.5 inches, they offer the additional clearance needed for high-performance valve train components. However, always double-check compatibility with your specific engine setup to avoid any installation issues. If you’re unsure, consult with a trusted mechanic or auto service professional to ensure the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is a tall valve cover?
The typical "tall" valve cover will be 1-1/4" to 1-1/2" taller, but they will vary a little.
What is the best coating for valve covers?
While most powder coatings out perform high-temperature paints, a Cerakote finish performs especially well at high-temperatures, making it ideal for valve covers. Cerakote and other ceramic coatings are often referred to as “exhaust coating” or “high heat coating” in the auto industry.
What are the best valve covers?
The best valve covers are Top Cover made by Pro Pan. Fab'd aluminum covers with THICC billet rails with steel inserts to keep distorting the aluminum by over tightening. Had a set on a UMP mod for over a decade now. Can't recall how much they were. Maybe $400, so should be less than $1000 in today money.
How do I know if I need tall valve covers?
If you upgrade to a High-Lift Camshaft, full roller rockers, and/or Shaft Mount Rockers, you will probably need tall covers. Tall covers are also required if you use a Stud Girdle. If you have a close-to-stock camshaft and valvetrain, you should be able to use stock height covers.
How often do valve covers need to be replaced?
they should last a good 4-5 years and 50-100k miles if they are OEM good quality and installed properly. If they were el-cheapos and installed incorrectly then you could require replacement next week...
How do you measure valve height?
Cup. Now a couple little tips there as well make sure that the straight edge is flat on the retainer. And it's on the right step of the retainer. It needs to be on the surface where the spring. Rides.
How bad is a valve cover leak?
With a bad gasket, the oil is able to leak into the spark plug wells and eventually soak the spark plugs. This can result in your engine misfiring, which is the failure of a cylinder to ignite during the engine's cycle. Misfires will result in reduced performance, and the spark plugs will need to be replaced.
Do taller valve covers make a difference?
in effect the taller valve covers greater surface area acts like an oil cooler that helps cool the valve springs very slightly. now it may only be a few degrees but each little advantage adds to the effiency of the total lubracation system.
How does valve clearance affect performance?
Loss of Power or Fuel Efficiency: If your vehicle struggles to accelerate or you notice a drop in fuel efficiency, improper valve clearance could be the culprit. Rough Idle or Misfires: Valves not closing properly can lead to rough idling or engine misfires, affecting overall performance.
Do valve covers affect performance?
Engine misfires: A valve cover gasket leak can allow oil to enter the spark plug wells, which can cause misfires and a rough-running engine. Reduced engine performance: If the leak is severe, the engine may lose some performance due to the loss of oil pressure.
