1948 288 Engine Head Refurbish

Posted by Tom in KCMO On 2017/9/22 15:47:25

The '48 "Woodie" has been battling overheating for some time now. It always ran hot and last weekend it seems to have overheated at the Ottawa, KS cruise. Once home the radiator was about a quart low (below the top of the core) and had oil in the coolant. I pulled the head this week and from the scorch marks, it looks like there was some leakage between cylinders and also into the coolant passages. The head is at the local head shop (ha!) for cleaning and inspection and my fingers are crossed that they'll find no serious warpage.

Couple of questions:
1. Is there a specification for the washers that go under the head nuts (thick ness and hardness)? I'm replacing the nuts (McMaster-Carr) and figure the washers should be replaced as well.
2. Is there a proper 'height' specification for the studs (height from the block)? Several are taller or shorter than the others.
3. Has anyone tried power-coating an engine head? Will the coating stand up to the heat?

Thanks,

Tom in KC

Attach file:

---

  (222.39 KB)


  (364.10 KB)


  (452.82 KB)


  (287.50 KB)