Hey y'all,

While waiting for a few parts to continue my build, I wanted to tackle something purely cosmetic, valve covers. When I ordered my 347 from Blueprint I also ordered a pair of "Cobra Powered by Ford" valve covers. These wouldn't clear the rockers so I got some spacers as well from RPC. I kept hearing great things about the Fel-Pro PermaDry gaskets (even these valve covers from Blueprint are using them) so I called Fel-Pro and they recommended using two when going with a spacer and no RTV. I measure my sandwich of valve cover, gasket, spacer, gasket, and it comes out to 2'', add 1/4'' of threading into the block, and 1/8'' of washer and split lock, and I get 2.375'', but I can't find a 1/4''-20 x 2.375'' bolt and I don't want it to be too short or long and not seal properly. I really don't want to deal with oil seepage just for vanity.

Seems that a lot of folks just go the route of double-threaded steel or SS studs and cut to the length they need. Any first-hand experience here with a similar configuration? If so, any tips on how to properly secure the studs (notch the end to use a flat screwdriver, double nut method, just tighten by hand, blue Loctite, anti-seize, etc.)?