A significant part of restoring and/or custom building a classic car or truck is the creative aspects of it — it is art after all. A high-quality paint job, a new grille, taillights, and a nice set of wheels, etc. is only part of the piece. The engine and engine bay is an equal if not more important part of a final, true work of art. Here are a few of my favorite engine dress-up products that I’ve had or would order if I was looking for something new.
Chrome Chevrolet Valve Covers for Small Block
These chrome valve covers sporting the black letters and red bowtie look really nice. These are a popular choice for dihard Chevy fans. If you’ve gone to many car shows, chances are you’ve seen them in person. I ran these on my 350ci small block in my 1983 C10 Chevy truck for 10+ years and they shined up nice even after being neglected for a while. You can get these in stock height or the tall versions. I had the tall version because I had a high lift cam and roller rocker arms in my engine so I needed more clearance. If your engine internals are stock, you likey won’t need the tall version. I’ve provided a button for the short (stock version) as well as the tall so you can choose for yourself.
There’s also matching red bowtie valve cover breathers available. You can’t ever have too many bowties, right?
Black Chevrolet Valve Covers for Small Block
Prefer black? You’re in luck; these valve covers are the same style as the chrome version above but in black in black. Note that these are the tall version; I couldn’t find a short version in this style.
Assault Racing Products Aluminum Valve Covers (Multiple Finishes)
If you’re looking for something a bit more neutral for your small block chevy but still want unique, these valve covers look like a good choice. I’ve never personally owned these, but they have good reviews and they certainly look nice. They are available in black with polished fin (as shown) for a unique look or solid black or polished. These are available in short or tall styles. CLick the button below the image to see the options.