273 valve cover restoration??

[604]

Is there a way to remove the fined chrome pieces form a set of 273 valve covers? I would like to have them rechromed, and repaint the covers. But I sure do not see what holds them on?? Thanks!!!

 

[65dartcharger]

Is there a way to remove the fined chrome pieces form a set of 274 valve covers? I would like to have them rechromed, and repaint the covers. But I sure do not see what holds them on?? Thanks!!!

Hi! Check out my thread.
http://www.forabodiesonly.com/mopar/showthread.php?t=102646

The finned aluminium are hold to the cover by some sort of clue. However the covers were painted with the aluminium fins in place. Good luck

 

[grimreaper]

I get them off by inserting a thin but stiff putty knife between the aluminum fin and the valve cover. 65dartcharger is correct that they are held on with some sort of glue. When I'm ready to reinstall I take mine to the local glass shop and have them put a drop of windshield urethane on each side of the fins and tape them in place until the urethane cures. Works really well.

 

[65Vart]

One name Leanna,
She does a great job on commando valve covers,

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[604]

I get them off by inserting a thin but stiff putty knife between the aluminum fin and the valve cover. 65dartcharger is correct that they are held on with some sort of glue. When I'm ready to reinstall I take mine to the local glass shop and have them put a drop of windshield urethane on each side of the fins and tape them in place until the urethane cures. Works really well.

Hay thanks! Hard to believe they had glue that would hold up to all that heat back then! I picked up a really really nice set at the Nats yesterday for only $60, so now I have two sets to redo!

 

[jefflock]

Leanna X 2. She does awesome work.

 

[toolmanmike]

Leanna X3 Here's a before and after pic. toolmanmike

 

[RedFish]

Is there a real reason to remove those aluminum fins ? Are they originally glued to raw sheet metal or are they glued to paint ?

 

[604]

I just figured it would be easer to sand blast them with them off. Then I would not have to worry about masking them, and damaging them.

 

[RedFish]

If you'll mask the fins well , bead blasting wont harm them or the rubber coating on those other pieces.

 

[CudaChick1968]

Thanks for the mentions guys! At last count, I think I've done 28 sets of Commando valve covers. Each is a challenge :-D but they usually turn out pretty nice compared to how they looked on arrival.

Pleeeease don't pry on the aluminum fins though! Just use a heat gun on the inside and they'll come off without damage.