The 6.7 Cummins Valve Cover is one of the best aftermarket DIY projects, offering both performance and aesthetic benefits with easy installation. It sits on top of the engine, protecting the valve mechanism from dust and debris while optimizing engine cooling and ventilation.
In the aftermarket world, the two most popular upgrade options are Billet Aluminum Valve Covers and Cast Aluminum Valve Covers. But what’s the difference between them, and which one is right for your needs?
1. Why Upgrade the 6.7 Cummins Stock Valve Cover?
Limitations of the OEM Plastic Valve Cover
-
Prone to Aging and Cracking: Over time, factory plastic covers can warp or crack due to high temperatures and oil exposure.
-
Decreased Sealing Performance: This can lead to oil leaks, affecting engine performance.
-
Restricted CCV System / CCV Delete Kit Issues: The stock Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system has limited efficiency, often causing excessive oil vapor buildup.
Advantages of Upgraded 6.7 Cummins Valve Covers
✅ Increased Durability: Aluminum construction offers superior strength, resisting high temperatures and pressure.
✅ Optimized Cooling: Aluminum’s excellent heat conductivity helps lower engine temperatures.
✅ Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: Both Billet and Cast Aluminum covers look far superior to OEM plastic covers.
✅ Improved CCV System: Reduces oil vapor buildup, cutting maintenance costs.
2. 6.7 Cummins Billet VS Cast Aluminum: Material & Manufacturing Differences
| Feature | Billet Aluminum Valve Cover | Cast Aluminum Valve Cover |
|---|---|---|
| Material | 6061-T6 Billet Aluminum | A356 Cast Aluminum |
| Manufacturing | CNC Precision Machined | Mold Cast |
| Strength | High strength, highly durable | Structurally solid but slightly less strong |
| Surface Finish | Smooth, polished, anodized options available | Rougher texture with casting marks |
| Cooling Performance | Excellent | Good |
| Customization Options | Multiple colors, engraved logos available | Limited color choices |
| Best For | High-performance, heavy-duty, custom builds | Daily driving, budget-friendly upgrades |
| Price Range | $800-$1200 | $400-$800 |
Billet Aluminum Key Features
-
Precision CNC-machined from 6061-T6 Aircraft-Grade Aluminum for superior durability.
-
Anodized or brushed surface finishes ensure even coloring and a premium look.
-
Ideal for high-performance, race applications where strength and cooling matter most.
Cast Aluminum Key Features
-
Made from A356 Aluminum Alloy using mold casting, maintaining solid structural integrity.
-
Slightly textured surface due to the casting process, offering a more rugged aesthetic.
-
Best for budget-conscious users looking for improved durability and cooling over plastic covers.
3. Advantages of the 6.7 Cummins Billet Valve Cover: The High-Performance Choice
A Billet Aluminum Valve Cover is the top choice for performance-focused drivers, offering superior durability, a premium aesthetic, and improved engine ventilation.
Key Benefits
✅ Extreme Strength & Durability – CNC-machined billet aluminum is tougher than cast aluminum or OEM plastic covers.
✅ Superior Cooling Performance – Enhanced cooling fins help keep engine temperatures in check.
✅ Customizable Aesthetics – Choose from anodized colors, brushed finishes, and custom logos.
✅ Optimized CCV System – Reduces oil vapor buildup, improving engine efficiency and lowering maintenance.
🔥 Recommended Product: SPELAB 6.7 Cummins Billet Valve Cover
✅ Compatible with: 2007-2024 6.7L Cummins (Ram 2500/3500/4500/5500)
4. 6.7 Cummins Cast Aluminum Valve Cover: A Budget-Friendly Choice
A Cast Aluminum Valve Cover is an excellent cost-effective upgrade, ideal for those looking to improve durability without investing in high-performance modifications. Compared to the stock plastic cover, it offers better strength, improved cooling, and a more rugged look at a lower price than billet aluminum options.
Key Benefits
✅ High Cost-Effectiveness – More affordable than billet aluminum while still offering durability.
✅ More Durable than Stock Plastic Covers – Aluminum construction prevents warping or cracking.
✅ Lightweight Design – Cast aluminum is generally lighter than billet aluminum, reducing engine load.
✅ Ideal for Daily Driving – A solid choice for users who want reliability without extreme modifications.
🔥 Recommended Product: SPELAB 6.7 Cummins Aluminum Valve Cover
✅ Compatible with: 2007-2024 6.7L Cummins (Ram 2500/3500/4500/5500)
5. Billet vs. Cast Aluminum: Exterior Differences
Aside from performance, appearance is also a key factor for many vehicle owners. The surface treatment of billet aluminum and cast aluminum differs, resulting in noticeable visual differences.
| Comparison Factor | Billet Aluminum Valve Cover | Cast Aluminum Valve Cover |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Texture | Smooth, glossy, can be anodized | Slightly rough, with casting texture |
| Color Options | Customizable in multiple colors (black, silver, red, etc.) | Usually only available in raw finish or painted |
| Customization | Can be engraved with logos, polished, brushed finishes | Limited customization options |
If you want your engine bay to look more refined and stylish, then a billet aluminum valve cover is undoubtedly the better choice. However, if practicality is your main concern, a cast aluminum valve cover can still provide a solid visual upgrade.
6. Installation Guide: Is It DIY-Friendly?
Both Billet and Cast Aluminum Valve Covers are relatively easy to install, making them great for DIY enthusiasts.
🔧 Installation Steps:
1️⃣ Remove the stock plastic valve cover and clean the sealing surface to remove any oil residue.
2️⃣ Check sensor compatibility to ensure the new valve cover supports OEM sensors and prevents error codes.
3️⃣ Secure the new valve cover with the existing bolts, tightening them evenly to ensure a proper seal.
4️⃣ Verify the CCV system compatibility, especially for billet covers, as some may require adjustments for optimal crankcase ventilation.
🎥 Recommended Installation Video:
7. Buying Guide: Which One Is Right for You?
✅ Choose a Billet Aluminum Valve Cover if:
✔ You need maximum durability for high-performance or heavy-duty use.
✔ You want to enhance engine aesthetics with customizable finishes and logos.
✔ You are willing to invest in a premium option with better heat dissipation and CCV efficiency.
✅ Choose a Cast Aluminum Valve Cover if:
✔ You want better durability than stock without extreme modifications.
✔ You need improved cooling and resistance to aging and cracking.
✔ You have a limited budget but still want an upgraded valve cover.
8. Conclusion: Billet vs. Cast Aluminum – How to Decide?
Both Billet and Cast Aluminum Valve Covers effectively enhance the durability and performance of the 6.7 Cummins engine.
-
Billet Aluminum is for performance-focused users, offering superior durability, heat dissipation, and custom design options.
-
Cast Aluminum is a more practical, budget-friendly solution, ideal for users seeking reliability without high-performance upgrades.
If you’re looking for the best replacement for your stock plastic valve cover, SPELAB offers high-quality Billet & Cast Aluminum options to meet different needs!
FAQ
Q1: Which is better for my truck, the 6.7 Cummins Billet Valve Cover or the 6.7 Cummins Aluminum Valve Cover?
A1:
✅ The Billet Aluminum Valve Cover is ideal for high-performance modifications, heavy towing, and off-road driving, offering superior strength and better heat dissipation.
✅ The Cast Aluminum Valve Cover is a budget-friendly option, providing better durability than the stock plastic cover while maintaining a good price-to-performance ratio.
Q2: Are the installation steps the same for the 6.7 Cummins Billet Valve Cover and the Cast Aluminum Valve Cover?
A2:
Yes, the installation process is generally the same for both. You typically just remove the stock valve cover and secure the new one using the same bolts.
However, some Billet Aluminum models may require additional adjustments to the Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system for optimal airflow.
Q3: Does choosing a 6.7 Cummins Billet Valve Cover affect engine performance?
A3:
✅ Yes! The Billet Aluminum Valve Cover improves airflow management by enhancing the Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system, reducing oil vapor buildup, and increasing combustion efficiency. Some upgraded versions also feature better heat dissipation, which helps improve engine longevity and stability.
Q4: Can I customize the color of a Cummins Valve Cover?
A4:
✅ Billet Aluminum Valve Covers offer a variety of color options (such as black, silver, red, anodized finishes) and support custom logos, giving your engine bay a more personalized look.
❌ Cast Aluminum Valve Covers usually come in a raw aluminum finish or painted coating, with fewer customization options.
Q5: What is the weight difference between the 6.7 Cummins Aluminum Valve Cover and the Billet Valve Cover?
A5:
✅ Cast Aluminum Valve Covers are generally lighter than Billet versions, making them a better option for users looking to reduce engine weight.
✅ Billet Aluminum Valve Covers are machined from a solid block of aluminum, making them heavier but also more durable, making them ideal for high-strength applications.
🚗 Do you prefer Billet or Cast Aluminum? Let us know in the comments! 💬
