intake rocker on on a friend's brooick 401 nailhead. does it look like a factory piece to you or aftermarket? know where he can purchase just one? rock auto? somewheres else? what do you think caused it to fail?
The broken metal next to the pushrod cup looks pretty thin, probably either made badly or of not very good material.
Buick rockers were cast iron until 1959 with ‘59 and later nailheads using 1.6-1 rockers. 1960 through ‘64 used the die-cast aluminum rockers and I wonder if the ‘59 iron rockers might be stronger if he has a relatively big cam? Buick racers BITD used aftermarket forged rockers.
wouldn't oem have a casting number in them? that's what I questioned maybe the builder found a worn one too far gone and replaced???
https://www.nailheadbuick.com/engine-rebuild-parts They pretty well have anything you need for a nailhead.
Yes, and send them the pic and ask what has happened as they will know and can advise if there is a better solution. They may even carry their own version of them. Well worth a phone call as they are a terrific source for Buick parts and info. I may pull a valve cover on my 401 just to look as I've got one noisy lifter and a set of adjustable push-rods sitting on the shelf waiting.
The engine recently rebuilt and the bronze valve guides installed? That is a definite no-no with nail heads. If not, could just be a poor casting. Replace it and go.
The Jalopy Journal
