Customizing a car engine increases the value of the car as well as the "shock value." There are a multitude of products on the market. When customizing an engine, while the aesthetics are important, serviceability is still important. Chrome covers in too close proximity to plug wires can cause arcing and a miss will occur. These parts have significant price differences for the same part, depending on where it is purchased. Research prices and selections to plan a customizing project to achieve the desired results.
Replace the valve covers. Custom valve covers are available in either chrome, aluminum, tall or low and with a myriad designs. A filler cap and a breather are also necessary with new valve covers. The breather comes in many varieties. Another thing to consider is replacing the original valve-cover bolts with custom bolts or T handles. T handles are hand tightened and really enhance the looks; they come in chrome or anodized. To remove the original valve covers, use a 1/4-inch drive socket and ratchet, and remove all the bolts around the edges of the cover.
Replace the air cleaner with a custom-designed air cleaner. These come in a vast variety in colors, shapes and sizes. The biggest consideration here is that it allows for sufficient airflow for the application. Give the supplier the necessary information indicating engine type and size along with the size of the carburetor or throttle body. This will ensure that you get the proper product for application. Make sure there is sufficient hood clearance if the design shape is changed.
Replace the spark-plug wires with Accel, MSD or another company's models. These come in blue, yellow and red with dimensions from 7 mm to 8.5 mm. Determine the preferred routing of the wires for the most appeal while keeping them clear of sharp edges and with enough clearance between the exhaust manifold and the wires. Once the routing has been determined, determine the type of wire supports to be used. Most of these different wire supports will be placed under the bolts on the valve cover between the valve cover and the bolt.
Replace the master cylinder with a chromed version, including a custom top cap. Many different manufactures supply these as well. To replace, loosen the brake lines with a wrench, and remove the two bolts holding it to the firewall. Fill the new master with fluid and bleed it before installing it. Attach the two hoses to the master (these come with the master cylinder) and hold the other end of the hose in the brake fluid in the top reservoir. Use a Phillips screwdriver to push the cylinder in and out five times. Remove the hoses, and install the master in reverse order of removal.
Replace the alternator with a chrome version. Use a wrench to relieve the tension on the belt, and remove the belt from the alternator pulley only. Use the 1/4-inch drive ratchet and a socket to remove the two bolts holding the alternator to the block. Replace in reverse order or removal.
Replace the radiator fan shroud or top fan guard with a chrome cover. These are removed and replaced by removing the two or four screws, depending on application. These screws are removed using a 1/4-inch drive socket in the appropriate size.
Replace all the parts visible with chrome or aluminum. Radiators, engine pulleys, water pumps, intake manifolds, headers, hood hinges, hoses, coils, oil pans, brake power boosters, thermostat housings, radiator fans, timing-chain covers, air-conditioning compressors, power-steering pumps and bolt covers come in chrome or aluminum for an upgraded look.
Decorate the underneath of the hood with either a custom paint scheme or with mirrors that can be purchased for the particular model.
