Description

Overview

The Keating Machine 24 Valve Billet Tappet Cover with Breather Port upgrades 1998.5–2002 Cummins 5.9L VP44 engines with stronger construction and improved crankcase ventilation. Unlike the factory stamped-steel cover, this billet design increases rigidity, improves sealing, and supports performance-focused use.

As a result, it performs well in towing, high-load, and boosted applications.

Billet Construction & Sealing

Keating Machine CNC-machines this tappet cover from high-quality billet aluminum. Because of this, the cover resists flex and prevents oil seepage common with OEM components.

Additionally, an integrated O-ring sealing surface seals directly against the block. This design removes the need for paper gaskets. It also simplifies installation while maintaining a leak-free seal through heat cycles and vibration.

Integrated Breather Port

This version includes a built-in breather port with internal baffling. The baffling controls oil vapor while allowing steady crankcase ventilation. The breather uses a –12AN male O-ring boss fitting, which supports clean, high-flow routing to a catch can or external breather system.

Therefore, this design works especially well in high-RPM or high-boost conditions where factory ventilation falls short.

Internal Design & Compatibility

The internal layout supports drop-in tappets and factory flat mushroom tappets. At the same time, the design allows the engine control module to mount in the factory location using original hardware, which preserves OEM wiring placement.

However, this tappet cover does not provide clearance for aftermarket roller lifters. It targets stock-style and mildly upgraded valvetrain setups.

Installation & Fitment

This tappet cover installs as a direct bolt-on replacement. No modification is required. Stainless steel mounting hardware and the O-ring seal come included for long-term durability.

Ultimately, it fits 1998.5–2002 Cummins 5.9L VP44 engines and suits performance trucks, tow rigs, and clean engine bay builds.

This SKU is with the Breathing Port

SKU# 120510-2VP44NP will have NO Breathing Port