I want to pull the valve covers on my 289 to inspect the valve train, and was just wondering what the proper method is for reinstalling them (what type of gasket, silcone, etc.)?

 

you want to install them dry after cleaning and de-greasing the gasket surfaces. get some rubber reusable ones with metal inserts to prevent over tightening, this will prevent leaks

 

+1

I have rubber gaskets on my engine and I love them.

 

yeah they are the shizz. if you end up using cork, use weatherstripping adhesive on one side and make sure they are nice and stuck to the surface before you apply permatex to the other side and tighten them up, or there is a good chance they will slip around and cause leaks.

 

With the rubber ones do you have to use silicon?

 

no you install the rubber ones dry, i actually install all valve cover gaskets dry on my 302s etc

 

Just a trick from the old-school:
Use a little bit of common axle grease on your gasket faces (especially cork) and they'll slide more without becoming disloged. I did it for years (still do) when I was still turning wrenches for a living. These new rubberized gaskets with the metal bolt rings are the best, especially if you want to get under the covers more often. I still like cork for long term installations. done right they'll last for along time.
Jlg

 

http://www.parts123.com/parts123/yb....P17.95~~~~~~~F

Looks like the gaskets are cheap enough.

I have been kicking around taking my valve covers off to paint them and generally clean them up.