Why do they call it a nail head? I could probably go on line and get the info but that would be no fun:TU: I was talking with My Father today and We were stumped o No:
I'm not a source for an answer, but I'd like to know as well. This question has been brought up in my household, too. o No:
Don't know when or how that term started...original slang term for Buick's vertical valve V-8 was "nail valve" not "nail head." "Nail valve" used exclusively in print (Hot Rod et. al.) throughout '60s. In any event...refers to smaller than average 1 7/8 intake and 1 1/2 exhaust valves...dictated by penthouse combustion chamber and valvetrain configuration that kept the classic vertical valve cover of the "Fireball" straight eight. Buick made up for those tiny valves with cam duration and best exhaust manifolds of the day...
Probably took the "Nail Valve" term and confused it with the popular "Flathead V8" nickname. Ended up with "Nailhead" Like how any GM 350 that isn't a Chevy must be a "Rocket 350"
Thanks for posting that article. I've always loved how the author seems to think that a dual-quad '64--newer Buick nail (head, valve) must be a 364. I'm basing the age on the fact that it's bolted to a TH 400 transmission.
Personally, I think Peter Sessler made far too many errors in his book...but it's still copyrighted work. I therefore don't see the reason for someone to remove the word "copyrighted" from my prior post. Perhaps flynbuick will explain.
