Loosening or removing max wedge exhaust manifold

[skyman51]

I need to replace a leaking valve cover gasket on the passenger side of my max wedge. I don't want to risk messing up the valve cover and paint. It has been suggested to loosen the exhaust manifold to gain even a 1/4 inch to remove the valve cover. Worst case would be to remove the exhaust manifold. Just in case I have gaskets fro both the valve covers as well as the exhaust manifolds. Any chance that the exhaust manifold gasket will stay in tact so it will not need to replace it? I ask because if just backing the manifold off the head will give me clearance, I don't want to remove it completely. Thanks

 

[MoparMitch]

Skyman if you have the metal/asbestos composition gaskets on ex manifold, chances are they will stick to either the head or the manifold in one piece,allowing you to reuse them. Worst case , if you have to replace them , you might be able to slip them in place while you have a good gap. Good luck

 

[zokman]

I have the same issue but was also wondering in everyones experience if all Max Wedge passenger side valve covers have peeled paint from the exhaust manifold? I wonder how chrome would hold up? TK

 

[skyman51]

I too have peeled paint at the back of the valve cover, but you can't see it when you look in the engine compartment unlees you look down between the valve cover and exhaust manifold. Unless yours is all modded, don't ruin it by putting on chrome valve covers. They are supoosed to be Mopar orange.

 

[zokman]

Yeah, I agree. I was thinking of temporarily putting on a set of chrome and trying to get the originals powder coated which I would think would hold up better, but the problem is that the engine was done and painted maybe 7 years ago before I got it, and the orange now seems to have a off hue I assume from the heat and time. New orange valve covers alone would stand out like a sore thumb. Somewhere I thought I saw some Max Wedges with chrome valve covers and chrome air cleaners or I am dreaming? TK

 

[Histoy]

I believe that chrome was an option in 1964, the last year for the Max Wedge engine. I had chrome valve covers and air cleaners on my '64 Belvedere. I've also seen them on other '64 Max Wedges in some of the magazines. When I sold the car, the chrome was still excellent after 5 years of use.

 

[zokman]

If anybody has a photo to post of a Max wedge setup with Chrome Valve covers and Air CLeaners that would be very helpful. I think my imagination has suffered with time! Thanks TK

 

[Histoy]

zokman, you might want to contact Bill Petrow at Special Ts. That's where I bought my chrome valve covers and air cleaners around 7 years ago. He might have some additional info. I think they were optional on Plymouths, but not sure about the Dodge Coronets.

 

[zokman]

Thanks Hisory for the referral. I have been meaning to talk to him about redoing my center console also. TH

 

[uk-maxie]

I too have peeled paint at the back of the valve cover, but you can't see it when you look in the engine compartment unlees you look down between the valve cover and exhaust manifold. Unless yours is all modded, don't ruin it by putting on chrome valve covers. They are supoosed to be Mopar orange.

Hi Rob

If you do have to repaint your valve covers, or any part of you engine, dont forget the correct color for these engines is 'Race Hemi Orange' and not the more common-place 'Street Hemi Orange' as used on later engines :read2:

Rob

 

[skyman51]

I am having difficulty in setting up enclosed trailer transport to my mechanic, and he is not available to come to my home. Anyone in the suburban Philly area that is either a professional mechanic or enthusiast that could possibly come to my home to replace a valve cover gasket on the passenger side of my max wedge? I have the tools. Most likely the exhaust manifold will need to be loosened and moved to make room to remove the valve cover without damage. Someone experienced with the max wedge engine would be ideal. I will be more than happy to pay for the service at going rates.

 

[HitIt]

I don't mean this in a bad way but why don't you try to do it yourself? You know what needs to be done and have the tools. It's a straightforward job and if you get stuck the members on this forum will be more than willing to help with any questions.:toothy10:

 

[skyman51]

I don't mean this in a bad way but why don't you try to do it yourself? You know what needs to be done and have the tools. It's a straightforward job and if you get stuck the members on this forum will be more than willing to help with any questions.:toothy10:

HitIt, you wouldn't know but I am legally blind. I am retired on full disability. I would of had it done already if I could. Keep on truckin because the alternative is not an option.

 

[skyman51]

HitIt, you wouldn't know but I am legally blind. I am retired on full disability. I would of had it done already if I could. Keep on truckin because the alternative is not an option.

Still looking for suggestions. Another option would be if anyone has an enclosed trailer available for transport of about 10-12 miles. Thanks

 

[HitIt]

HitIt, you wouldn't know but I am legally blind. I am retired on full disability. I would of had it done already if I could. Keep on truckin because the alternative is not an option.

Ah, I see. Wish I were closer I'd help you out.

 

[skyman51]

Ah, I see. Wish I were closer I'd help you out.

I love Santa Barbara. I am a retired corporate pilot and our COO was from Orange County. Every other week we would leave Philly Thursday afternoon for John Wayne Airport. We would take off at 6 a. m. Monday morning for Philly. Really got to know your area. Usually stayed at the Costa Mesa Marriott. Played tennis and golf and often ate at the Hard Rock in Santa Barbara. Sure do missit.

 

[skyman51]

Trailer transportaion has been taken care of.

 

[skyman51]

Well I finally got the car to the shop. The exhaust manifold was removed as was the valve cover. As suspected, the gasket on the valve cover was shot and not even positioned right. It had a big gap where the oil poured out under pressure. One glitch though. One of the head to manifold studs came out with the nut. It was one that went into a water jacket. The coolant had to be drained and the hole dried out and the stud reinstalled with sealer before the manifold can be reinstalled. An unexpected issue but no damage.