I need nuts...

[Brads70]

The lock nuts will be on the bottom side of the valve cover.

That makes me nervous, I'd zap/tack them with a welder when your all assembled just to be sure they don't come off......

[Burdar]

That worries me too. That's why I don't want to risk it with nylon. I'll use loctite and all metal lock nuts. I can't see a top lock working loose but the loctited will be some insurance.

[Chryco Psycho]

can you cross drill the threads & pin them or wire them ?

[Burdar]

I thought about that too.

[Brads70]

I know they are all painted and all but what about plug welding them from the inside?

[Burdar]

That was another idea that was suggested. I was worried you'd see a tape line. Then there's the issue with not being able to re-polish the piece if needed. I tried polishing compounds after buffing and everything I tried caused scratches and dulled the finish. Polishing on a buffing wheel got the best finish.

At the end of the day, I had to make a choice.