[jmohn]

I thought the "newer" cars came with the more rigid ("turbo") covers.

Regardless; on my '78 SC (non-turbo covers) I use the "beaded" gaskets and have no leaks (I guess my covers are flat enough). Equally important (IMHO) is proper tightening of the fasteners, start in the middle of the covers and work your way out alternating top and bottom; do not over tighten, they only require about 6 ft/lb of torque. I admit I do not have a small torque wrench so I use the "twist of the wrist" method; you grab the head of a 1/4" drive ratchet and twist your wrist only (do not use the handle - too much leverage), with a little practice you can get quite consistent. Or get a small, accurate torque wrench and do it right. The whole job (valve adjustment) is more tedious than difficult.

Good luck,

Jerry M
'78 SC