T-Series Loose valve cover oil cap

[NutmegCT]

For the first time since November, I cranked up my '53 TD. Felt good! Temp in the garage was 50F, full choke, ignition on, pump purred along, I pulled the starter knob - and it came right to life. Yeehaa!

As it warmed, I slowly pushed in the choke. Engine slowed to normal idle, but I heard a kind of rattling tinkly sound. Turns out the oil cap on the valve cover rattles.

The grippers under the cover itself are tight in the hole. But the cover of the cap (with the oil company names) is loose and rattles.

Was there originally some felt or rubber between the puller knob and the cover, or between the cover and the "gripper" underneath?

My setup is similar to this:

Thanks.
Tom M.

 

[PAUL161]

Tom, There is a cork gasket under the gripper on mine, as seen in the photo. It appears it was installed before the gripper was installed, as it completely fills the cap inter surface. My cap is very tight when the center button is pushed down. Because of the chain, I have to re-do my valve cover, then put a clear plastic sleeve over the chain. PJ


View attachment 53298

 

[NutmegCT]

Thanks Paul. Sorry 'bout the chain scratches!

I wondered about cork, but settled on sliding some felt into that area. Cut a circle to fit, then made a cut from edge to center, then carefully slid it into place. Works like a charm.

Somehow we always find a way to improve our cars. And they often do the same to us.

By the way, how was that "oil brand" cap supposed to be used? The cover with the names on it rotates pretty easily, so I can't see it holding a specific position for long.

Tom M.

 

[DrEntropy]

Tom, "stretch" the 'fingers' in the cap gently outward, then find a piece of synthetic material to replace what Paul's cork seal shows.

1/4" thick natural rubber will do the job.

 

[PAUL161]

Thanks Paul. Sorry 'bout the chain scratches!

I wondered about cork, but settled on sliding some felt into that area. Cut a circle to fit, then made a cut from edge to center, then carefully slid it into place. Works like a charm.

Somehow we always find a way to improve our cars. And they often do the same to us.

By the way, how was that "oil brand" cap supposed to be used? The cover with the names on it rotates pretty easily, so I can't see it holding a specific position for long.

Tom M.

Tom, it isn't supposed to turn once the button is pushed down. They are supposed to seal so no oil can work it's way out, reason for the cork. PJ