Re: 1954 Caribbean valve clearance problem

Posted by Owen_Dyneto On 2010/2/19 12:01:15

I don't think you have the full story; since the lifters are hydraulic, when you replace the valves, cut the seats, or cut the face of the old valves you may change the distance between the valve stem end and the lifter and you no longer have assurance that the clearance is within the range of operation of the hydraulic lifter.

The special gauge blocks came in two different models, one for the 356 engine and one for the later 327/359 engines are are well-described in the shop manuals for all these models. Fortunately both gauge blocks have been in reproduction of decades, Ron Carpenter being one source, I also still have some left from when I offered them decades ago.

In use, you remove the hydraulic plunger from the lifter body, make sure the cam lobe is fully DOWN, insert the gauge block into the lifter body, and grind the end of the stem until the clearance is between 0.030" and 0.070". That's it in a nutshell, but I strongly suggest you read the shop manual for more information.

But if I understand it correctly, if your mechanic can't find a feeler gauge or know what one is, I'd be VERY concerned about his ability to work on your car.