4 Bolt BB Rocker Covers

[Stumper]

Have a dumb but honest question. Just picked up a set of valve cover gaskets for my 361 and with it came four round mini gaskets - I assume for the 4 studs. Are these an original feature of the early BB gaskets and if so how are they supposed to be installed? Wouldn’t think you’d want them on the underside of the cover so do they simply go on top? Is a washer used with the nut over the round gasket?
I currently don’t have these on my car and don’t think I have ever seen an early BB with little round gaskets visible anywhere.

 

[R413]

Yes I see they are included with the 4 bolt gaskets but I don’t use them, I don’t see any need for them.

 

[Stumper]

I do get some seepage from a couple of the studs but honestly don’t know if these things would help - or be correct?

 

[Big Bad Dad]

I think those may have been intended for the early 318 poly valve covers? Don't know why they would come with B engine covers.

 

[oldkimmer]

Got pics? Kim

 

[R413]

See there is 8 studs for a pair of valve covers and only 4 of the round things. I’m agreeing with the poly 318 idea. There is just no need for them. A gasket will do the job on its own.

They are a round washer type seal that is pretty firm. Just imagine what you use on a poly 318 bolt to seal it.

 

[RemCharger]

I agree with the poly 318 talk

 

[Stumper]

They are not poly gaskets. Poly are quite different. These are for the pre 63’ BB motors.

 

[Big Bad Dad]

They are not poly gaskets. Poly are quite different. These are for the pre 63’ BB motors.

View attachment 1257925

That's correct. But when I said the washers may be for a poly, it is because it is common for manufacturers to include parts for similar engines, probably by accident. Every complete engine overhaul gasket set I have used always had extra misc stuff like that left over.