Got a few q's about my 350 motor. I need 2 starter bolts (the offset bolt pattern starter) - what is the thread size and bolt length - so I can pick them up at Napa or Lowes. Q #2: I got a carb stud kit for my q-jet. The front 2 are fine - but the back 2 need long bolts. The holes go through the top of the carb. What thread size and length do I need for these two? Thanks a ton guys!!!

p.s. Why would you run tall valve covers? My buddy said for roller rocker arms. Mine are warped and i'm going to get some cheap ass ones and don't want to have to get different ones down the road.

For the starter bolts you need to know the year of the block because the early ones are 3/8 inch while the later engines(they switched sometime in the 80's) are metric...
on the carb studs they are 5/16 I am not sure of the length but I think they are 3 1/2 inches long.. to be sure measure your old ones or if you dont have the old ones measure your carb then add the thickness of the gasket plus 3/8 inch for thread engagement ..
on the valve covers remember you get what you pay for of coourse that is probably why they warped and you are replacing them..buy quality and you will have fewer problems..

Originally posted by hy_desert_4wheeler
For the starter bolts you need to know the year of the block because the early ones are 3/8 inch while the later engines(they switched sometime in the 80's) are metric...
on the carb studs they are 5/16 I am not sure of the length but I think they are 3 1/2 inches long.. to be sure measure your old ones or if you dont have the old ones measure your carb then add the thickness of the gasket plus 3/8 inch for thread engagement ..
on the valve covers remember you get what you pay for of coourse that is probably why they warped and you are replacing them..buy quality and you will have fewer problems..

Ok - I called the dealer and the starter bolts are $4 each - I'll just go that route. Plus he said they are different lengths (I think he said inboard one is shorter). I'll measure my carb and gasket + 3/8 for thread engagement.

I'll look into quality valve covers - you have a suggestion? I've been looking at summit and jegs cataloges.

Can you answer my q about valve cover heights? If I add roller rockers down the road I don't want to have to get tall valve covers. So I'd like to get ones I can keep forever.

About the valve covers, I am running roller rockers with Stock Height GM Chevy Power Valve Covers that are powder coated black. I only had to clearance the factory breather housing. If you are not running an AC unit, Go with the Tall covers. Get the GM ones or a thick set of aftermarket ones. I have had good luck with the Hartman/Comp Composite ones.