What year does the Chevy 350 have center bolt valve covers?
The Chevy 350 engine is a popular choice among car enthusiasts and mechanics alike, known for its reliability and performance. One of the distinguishing features of certain models of the Chevy 350 is the center bolt valve covers. In this article, we will explore the year these valve covers were introduced and what it means for car owners and restorers.
What Are Center Bolt Valve Covers?
Center bolt valve covers are a specific design of valve covers that utilize bolts located in the center of the cover, as opposed to the traditional side-mounted bolts. This design was introduced to improve sealing and reduce the chances of oil leaks, which is a common issue in older engines.
When Were Center Bolt Valve Covers Introduced?
The Chevy 350 engine began using center bolt valve covers starting in 1987. This change was part of a broader update to the engine design, which included improvements in performance and emissions control. The introduction of center bolt valve covers marked a significant shift in the engineering of the small-block Chevy engines.
Benefits of Center Bolt Valve Covers
There are several advantages to the center bolt design that make it a preferred choice for many mechanics and car enthusiasts:
- Improved Sealing: The center bolt design provides a more uniform clamping force, which helps to create a better seal and reduces the likelihood of oil leaks.
- Ease of Installation: Center bolt valve covers are generally easier to install and remove, making maintenance simpler for car owners.
- Compatibility: Many aftermarket performance parts are designed to fit center bolt valve covers, allowing for easier upgrades and modifications.
These benefits make center bolt valve covers a popular choice for both new builds and restorations of older Chevy 350 engines.
Conclusion
In summary, the Chevy 350 engine adopted center bolt valve covers starting in 1987, bringing with it several advantages in terms of performance and maintenance. Whether you are restoring a classic vehicle or simply maintaining your daily driver, understanding these features can help you make informed decisions about your engine's upkeep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Vortec heads center bolt?
The Vortec heads use center-bolt valve covers, and the bolt pattern and angle of the intake manifold surface are different. Other than that, everything else should work fine. The Vortec heads should actually help the earlier engine breathe easier and pick up a decent amount of power.
How can you tell if a 350 head is a Vortec?
The easiest way to tell is the bolts that fasten the intake to the heads. Vortec heads use eight 5/16" bolts that are vertical to the ground. Other heads with center bolt valve covers use twelve 3/8" bolts that are close to square with the intake/head interface.
How many valve cover bolts does a 351 modified have?
The 351M/400 has 8 valve cover bolts like the 351C does.
What size are SBC valve cover bolts?
SBC valve cover bolts FITS chevy 283 302 305 307 327 350 383 400 ENGINES valve covers bolt. SIZE - valve cover bolts for chevy 350 are 1/4" - 20 Thread Pitch. Bolts Measure 1 3/8" IN Length studs measure 1 1/4" IN Length.
What year 350 has Vortec heads?
From 1996 to 2000, GM truck and van 350 engines came equipped with L-31 Vortec cylinder heads. Built of cast iron, these powerhouse heads upped the horsepower of these engines by magnitudes. This is primarily attributed to the high port flow in the . 300”-.
When did Chevy come out with the bolt?
2017
The first-generation Bolt was developed and manufactured with LG Corporation. Sales of the 2017 Bolt began in California in December 2016; it was released nationwide and international markets release in 2017.
What year did Chevy start using roller lifters?
GM first began installing roller cams in some Chevrolet small-block, V8-equipped cars in 1987. But OE roller-cam installations in trucks didn't occur until 1995.
What is the torque on center bolt valve covers?
Torque the valve cover bolts to 5-6 ft/lbs, making sure gaskets do not slip out of position. Proper torqueing will help to ensure that your covers do not leak oil.
Do valve cover bolts need sealant?
Some covers use the valve cover bolts/grommets to help hold the gasket in the cover groove. No need for sealers or adhesives to “glue in” the gasket.
What year did Chevy come out with center bolt valve covers?
In 1987, another round of changes were made, this time to the top of the engine. Engine now has Center Bolt valve covers (Figure D), and the intake manifold bolt angle has changed on the four center intake bolts, thus making all previous intakes not applicable to the 1987-1997 Engines.
