I picked up a fresh set of cast iron sbc heads on craigslist for a song. The heads were not assembled. They came with some sketchy looking soft rubber seals on the intake an exhaust. I have seen captive seals on chevys but not this type before. What is a good valve seal to run on these heads and should I coat the stems with assembly lube or something prior to the first use? (cast iron heads, bronze guides, new valves, not run since rebuild) Thanks.
I am not a fan of the Positive lock seals. They have the little wire retainers. The umbrella type work great unless running a .500+lift cam. The old stock type orings at the top of the stem were used for a LONG time and did the job. If the guides are snug then a positive locking seal may not allow enough lube to the stem. Assembly lube or engine oil will be fine. peace
I agree w/the last poster. When valves & guides are "correct"...the stock "square o-ring" seal works fine. Anything after that you really should use P/C, afermarket seals. I suppose cam lift would have an impact tho'.
i use pc seals on my engines...and yes i always lube every thing before assy. a little assembly lube goes a long way...helps other engine parts tooo......kev
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