Intake/exhaust port block-off plates

Hey folks,

I'm preparing an engine for long-term storage. It's been in storage for a decade before I bought it, though it did not have the cams installed or ANY engine covers, cam cover, or oil pan. I'm sourcing those parts now and getting a gasket and bolt set. This engine will be completely overhauled once it's brought out of storage.

I'm looking for plates to block the intake and exhaust ports - just something to seal the ports so dust or insects cannot get inside. Does anyone know of a set?

Also, should I mount the cams, or would there be any adverse wear on them? I will be replacing valve springs during the rebuild.

Thanks,
Mark

For the Intake. Remove the carb holders, then use Duct Tape across the IN ports. Replace the carb holders. That should seal them. The EX though might be tougher. I haven't seen any made for it. But if you had an old header, you could cut the ends for the ports off, then weld a cap on to them, then bolt those up. An old header with road rash would be perfect.

Why bother ?
If its been sitting for a decade so whats another 6 months or a year or 2?
If you are going to rebuild it put your efforts into things that can save you money .
Look after the paint and the bright work if its worth the effort.

Sorry Mark I forgot to get back to this thread and I just saw your wanted post.

This is what I do.

Cut out 4 plastic circles from a coffee can lid the size of exhaust washers and sealed them in with a little tub and tile caulk, note; that's what I had available.
leaving a little weep hole at the bottom in case any moisture gets in during cleaning.

When you are ready to remove them the caulk cleans off easy and any leftover gets burned up

JD





A lot cleaner but still a ways to go

Ping pong balls fit nicely in the exhaust ports. Some rubber bands from flange bolt to flange bolt holds them in. On the intake I used chunks of foam, the kind you might find in tool/equipment cases. I just stuffed them in there.