hyphenf15

My factory valve covers are leaking around the metal sleeve and plastic housing. I've tried a new gasket but still have a pretty good leak on the lower valve cover. Any recommendations on aluminum valve covers to end my leaking problems? I'm tired of the blue smoke at stop lights. Much thanks.

TheOtherEric

First off, I'll assume that when replacing the gasket, you just hand-tightened the screws with a small L-shaped allen wrench. If not, then you're leaking because of that. If so, then I agree you might have a warped cover. So you can either replace it with OEM or go aluminum; you'll find differing opinions of whether or not aluminum is worth the added money. There are some strong believers in aluminum, but they seem to be relatively few. It's not quite the same as with older 911's, where aluminum aftermarket is the clear winner.

Bull

I use the aluminum covers for one reason, they work for me! Even on cars that do 35+ track days a year in the Instructor run group, we haven't had any leaking valve covers after moving to aluminum covers....for years. These cars get HOT often. Prior to moving to aluminum, several of us had leaks every season. For street driven cars, where you aren't really using the engines much, they may not be necessary.

hyphenf15

Which aluminum covers are you using? Is there a manufacturer to stay away from or one that comes highly recommended? I'm looking for a long term solution for a primarily street driven car. Would like to fix it and be done. thanks.

kb

check with imagineauto.com. Think I spoke to a guy there called Nate. 913.310.9927 No affiliation just a satisfied customer. I have them on my 95 993 and are a great investment, and they do have cool factor.

Bull

Several of us have the Imagine Auto covers on our cars, and they are working perfectly:

http://imagineauto.com/Merchant2/mer...=IAVALVECOVERS

95FL993CAB

I have tried to find the price. No can do. How much are they as I am afraid I will need those in the near future.
Ron

SinVancouver

Site says 299

Bull

Right on the page I posted, $299.

FlyYellow

so are they lighter or heavier than the originals?

chris walrod

Heavier than the plastic covers. I have been testing a prototype set that I designed, but its a never ending process as I am trying to get them as light, but honestly will never achieve my goals with respect to weight. Its purely a material thing..

ppressle

Where is Mr. Linton when we need him?

Bull

IIRC, the weight diff isn't much for the covers we use. I'll trade a few ounces for NO oil leaks.

hyphenf15

thanks for the awesome feedback. I really appreciate everyones help. great forum!!

Monique

On 993's, I doubt there is much benefit from the alu covers. A well installed plastic and cover does not leak generally. At $300 per, I find the price steep. IMO

Hyphenf15: welcome to Rennlist!!!