hey gang, the 455 folks blueprint their engines with zero block deck/piston clearance for quench & compression. I realize its not as straightforward in a nailhead because the intake surfaces on the heads can't simply be restored to proper geometry by milling them down as well. So is everybody just sticking with factory deck clearances? Or is there some optimum amount of clearance to work for on a nailhead that will work better than stock? thanks for any info, jeff
Try the NailheadBuick group ver at yahoo Try asking this question over at the NailheadBuick forum on Yahoo as well. If you're not already a member it is a must for any Nailheader. Great bunch of guys - very friendly and helpful. http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/NailHeadBuick/
jeff, most nailheads ive done have been .035 in the hole, you would first check your piston to valve clearance. I did a 425 @ .010 in the hole but heads where shaved too, looked like about .035 and I only had .045 clearance, turned the motor to 6000 and blew it up. should have I think .095 clearance.