Finally getting headstrong back into my 54 build. Just interested in what you guys have done with your retainers on your 235's (or similar) with updated intakes/exhaust. I'm pretty sure the fenton stuff is built so the intake/exhaust keepers fit as they would stock. I'm planning on runnin and old Tattersfield dual intake with Fenton headers, so Ive had to grind the keepers a bit so they function correctly and tightly. But the outer two will have to have extensions. Simple enough to weld some rod on there, but I'd like something a little bit more aesthetic. Any ideas, pix? Thanks!
Have to assume you are not talking about valve retainers/keepers but manifold hold downs. I know exactly what you mean having used Fenton exhaust and Clifford intake on my 261 in a 50 Chevy. I built them up with weld and shaped them as necessary to make them both look good and hold evenly. I also took the guide dowels out on the ends and used bolts which really helped hold everthing in place during assembly. On a couple of spots I carefully filed down the manifold lug to even it with the corresponding lug on the other manifold. You would think they could get together on these things and make them at least somewhat universal.
Yup, thats exactly what I mean! Just didn't really know what the part was called. Its definitely a little annoying, but gotta deal with it, and want something nice out of it. I have bolts in the ends for now, do you have any pix of hows yours turned out?