I am looking at getting a 383 short block for my 72 chevelle and I need to run short valve covers for the Serptine belt setup that is on my current motor.

The question is how big of a cam can I install and can I run roller rockers?

Most roller rockers will fit under "standard" height valve covers.

Thanks for the info. I was not sure about that. Any Idea on cam specs? This is my first internal motor adventure. (well besides valve seals and replacing heads)

There some cam experts on this site that may chime in on this. If you mean clearance wise, I don't think you will have a problem with any cam you choose.

Yes that is what I mean clearance inside the valve cover.

I know your question relate to a SBC......... But I can tell you that I needed tall covers on my 427 due to the roller rockers, I rather have the shorter stock covers but I don't have the clearance. I was told that some RRs will fit under short covers but I can't remember which type or for a SB or BB.

I have 1.5 RR on my 383 and I got the GM perfomance cast allum. tall valve covers and they still were tapping the covers... so i had to get the fabricated tall valve covers. A lot of people take a quick glance at my engine and think its BBC, i like the look.

New covers
http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f388/bdc1013/headers.jpg
http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f388/bdc1013/IMG_0300.jpg
http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f388/bdc1013/IMG_0298.jpg

old covers
http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f388/bdc1013/040806_1839.jpg
http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f388/bdc1013/032006_1720a.jpg
http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f388/bdc1013/031906_1356.jpg