Re: How do I determine if my 1951 288 head is usable and who has one?

Posted by DavidPackard On 2024/5/31 16:38:15

Kevin and 53 Cavalier

If the combustion is complete there is approximately 20 ounces of water produced for each 16 ounces of fuel consumed. On start-up I doubt if the combustion is anywhere close to complete, and a good amount of free carbon (black smoke) will be present. Until the engine and exhaust system warms the liquid water and carbon will exit the tailpipe. The water is scrubbing the carbon out of the exhaust flow. After the engine and exhaust system achieves operating temperature the production of 20 oz of water per 16 oz fuel consumed is still valid but leaves the tail pipe as a hard to see vapor. Some amount of carbon will still be present but exits as small particles . . . again not something easily visible. Carbon and water coming out of the tailpipe shortly after a cold start is quite normal, it’s a direct consequence of chemistry. Hydrogen in the hydro-carbon fuel combining with the oxygen in the air . . . that’s all it is. If it is really cold the water in the exhaust will re-condense and appear as a ‘white smoke’ cloud.

dp