How Can We Clean or Polish Valve Covers

[jon1000]

Is there a way to remove tarnish or stains and put a shine on the stock valve covers, or is painting the only way to improve the appearance?

[SexieWASD]

it's metal, you can do as you please with it, that includes polishing, painting, powder coating, electroplating, burnishing, stone washing, you name it. It's just that painting takes the least amount of work for the little added benefit. If you have a built motor on a show worthy car, then the other options might be worth it, but if not painting cleans it up nicely without taking up too much time.

[71Corolla]

My favorite method is to remove the cover, and polish it with a wire wheel. It takes a couple of sizes, a normal one and a small wheel to get into the tight areas. After the wire wheel treatment, I take an auto polish which removes the tarnish and shines it up nicely. It's work, but the results are great, and no painting is needed, which can peel and flake off over time.

Doing the above, surprisingly the cover will stay shiny for many years. I did this on my Corolla many years ago (it's been I think almost 20 years) and the valve cover still shines. Yes I know, the car needs work I have not had time, sad.

[jon1000]

I think that is more what I had in mind. My engine is very clean, but it looks like at some time maybe someone used a degreaser which left a dull appearance and some discoloration on the covers.

Your car is a classic. Are you ever going for a full restore? The valve cover still looks pretty good for a clean up done twenty years ago.

Did yoou use a brass wheel? I am guessing steel should not be used.

[71Corolla]

Originally Posted by jon1000

Did yoou use a brass wheel? I am guessing steel should not be used.

Brass is better, softer. But I used steel back then. When doing it, easy on the amount of pressure you apply.

I'm looking for another 71-74 Corolla and will combine them. My frame rails are gone, but the drivetrain is perfect. The carb is from a 1980 Corolla so drivability is excellent. The original carburetors were terrible (also used to run dual Webers).