I used some 318 Valve Covers on mine So I could have a More Modern PCV System and the Plug Wire Routing was a Bonus.
I didn't care for the StovePipe Covers I had... They sold in a bout 10minutes in here! Lol
I've never liked the early valve covers either. I don't even like the Commando cover. I know.....blasphemy, but I don't like um. Glad you found the exhaust leak was such an easy fix. That was cool.