Dimensions: Click here for dimensions.
Number of Bolts: 2 mounting bolts per cover, on the top
Finishes: Read about finishes and construction of PML parts.
These PML Nailhead BUICK V8 valve covers are designed for 1953 to 1966 Buick 264, 322, 364, 401 and 425 engines. PML valve covers are heavy duty sand cast aluminum and feature classic styling with the traditional BUICK logo.
Benefits:
- Vintage BUICK script
- Fins and script are cast in (not engraved) and over a quarter of an inch tall
- Thick wall construction so covers are stiffer than stock
- No bend or flex for a secure seal
- Taller than stock for some roller rocker systems
- Licensed GM product
- Made in USA
These valve covers mount with two bolts per cover, included.
On the powder coat finish, the powder coat is shaved off the top of the fins and script. On the polish finish, PML does not polish between the fins and script.
PML also manufactures Nailhead V8 valve covers with a smooth side, valley plates, spark plug wire covers, and an oil pan.
We have two of these on SPECIAL: Special #418 (polish finish, with PCV and breather/oil fill holes), Special #449 (polish finish), and Special #451 (polish finish)
Licensed GM product. All related Emblems and vehicle body designs are tradmarks of General Motors LLC, used under license to PML, Inc.
These PML Nailhead BUICK V8 valve covers are designed for 1953 to 1966 Buick 264, 322, 364, 401 and 425 engines.
These valve covers are larger than stock so check for clearance for larger valve covers.
PCV, breather and oil fill holes are OPTIONAL. The covers are made without holes but holes can be machined to order. See SPECIFICATIONS.
Loaner Program
We want to make sure you get valve covers that will work on your engine and you love looking at. With that in mind we have a program for borrowing a PML valve cover to test fit on an engine. Learn more about the PML Loaner Program.
Our thanks to those who have emailed us pictures.
- 1964 Buick Riviera
- 1963 Buick Riviera X11
- 1963 Buick Riviera
- 1959 Buick LeSabre
- 1953 Buick Riviera
1964 Buick Riveria
Brian decided on PML valve covers in black powder coat for his 1964 Buick Riviera with a Nailhead 425 motor. He had the valve covers machined for a PCV and breather.
1964 Riveria Buick Nailhead
Riveria hood emblem
original Nailhead engine valve covers
PML valve covers with breather
PML valve covers with PCV
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1963 Buick Riviera X11
We spotted this 1963 Buick Riviera at the Grand National Roadster Show in 2015. The design is based on a concept car and it has a 1969 Mercury Cyclone roof. Built by River City Speed & Custom, Owner Marcy Molkenthen.
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1963 Buick Riviera
This 1963 Buick Riviera features PML Nailhead valve covers and valley plate. Built by Precision Body Works in Virginia.
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1959 Buick LeSabre
This 1959 Buick LeSabre with the Nailhead V8 engine was restored by Precision Body Works in Virginia.
The engine is dressed up with PML valve covers, valley plate, and spark plug wire covers.
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1953 Buick Riviera
Carlson HotRods restored this Riviera. PML valve covers and valley plate complement the sleek engine design.
1953 Buick
1953 Buick Nailhead Engine
PML Buick Nailhead valve covers
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Gaskets
Gaskets are not included with these valve covers. PML designed these Nailhead Buick valve covers to work with both stock gaskets and cork composite gaskets.
Optional PCV, Breather, Oil Fill Holes
These covers can work with many applications. Some applications use the valley plate for PCV, oil fill and breathers. Some applications use the valve covers.
These valve covers can be machined with holes to accommodate PCV, oil fill and breathers if needed. There are three possible locations. The interior has reinforced rings for machining.
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This is custom machining. PML has a machined shop on site and can machines these valve covers to order. Please call to discuss configuration needed and pricing.
An oil cap is also available.
Read this PDF file on PML Nailhead Valve Covers Machining Options for pictures and more information.
Optional Machining for Roller Rocker Arms
Some engine builds use large roller rocker arms. Customers have reported that sometimes there can be contact with the front side wall of the valve cover. Because PML covers are heavy duty, we can machine a groove to add clearance. This is approximately a one inch wide groove about one inch down from the gasket surface.
This groove was specified by a customer to clear the T&D rocker arms sold by TA Performance. We have also been told that this groove will work for Tom Telesco/Classic And Muscle Automotive rocker arms. PML cannot guarantee fitment so check your set up before ordering.
PML has a machine shop on site and can machine this groove if needed. This is custom machining so these valve covers cannot be returned. Please call to order this service.