55 valve covers

[gerald ross]

the 55 series 62s i recently acquired has a 331 that sports chromed vavle covers.  is this original, an original option, or some after market dress up gimick?  the engine was just rebuilt but those valve covers are rather old, pitted and in need of either rechroming or  (what do yall think?) replacing.
jerry

[John Washburn]

Gerald,

Someone chrome plated the valve covers in the 55s life. This was not a option from Cadillac.

This is the last year for the 331 and it maxed out at 250 hp. A great car.

John Washburn

CLC #1067

[Porter 21919]

John,

We all know the 55 is a great car, just because you have a 56 and Im stuck with a 66 & 67 you dont have to rub it in.

The 50s Cadillacs were the last of that styling era, the 59-64 were also in a class of their own, fins baby, all great cars, the 60s just gave us the best drivetrains.

Id like a 58 Sixty Special as long as Im picking and choosing here for my future collection.

We all know what Stampie wants, a 500 engine in any year Cadillac. (preferably a 57)

Porter

[Bruce Reynolds # 18992]

Gerald,

Following on from John, the big problem with Chrome Valve Covers, is that they hold the heat within the engine, and also will always leak.  The chrome plating and gaskets lust dont go well together.

It is a bit like in the oldays, the saying goes, if it dont go, chrome it.   Cars in car shows usually are show-pieces, and as such dont get used, whereas cars on the road, go, and usually have painted parts.   The Polishing of Aluminium Castings gives a good shine, and the gasket surfaces wont leak.

Bruce,
The Tassie Devil(le),
60 CDV