What are the drip tubes in valve covers? and are they necessary? I just bought some Granetelli BB valve covers and they don't have the tubes.

Thanks
driverk
70 malibu
70HOTRD

Most of the Hi-Perf Big Blocks had "drippers" as they are called. These tabs direct the oil from the pushrods directly down to the rocker balls. I use a stock set of drippers on my 454. Gives it a factory appearance too.