39 workn towards an end

3

30-9

Well-known member
Hi Gents

I'm finishing up my mostly stock 39 (with EAB) and have some questions:

  • Had cast heads, am thinking about aluminum. Which ones best? I don't mean manufacture, but I understand there are different ways they are cut.
  • Should I use studs or bolts? is one better than other?
  • Now that Roy has passed, where to purchase bolts/studs?
  • What about gaskets?

I'm leaning towards Reds headers and pipes. Being 85, are pipes from Red's easy install?
 
I don't know how much improvement you'll get with aluminum heads versus EAB heads other than they look sharp and maybe some additional cooling. I like bolts instead of studs for ease of head removal down the road but that's just me. I'm sure others will disagree. Whatever way you decide to go make sure you seal the threads. I used number 2 Permatex but again, lots of different opinions out there. As far as gaskets go, when I bought all the rebuild stuff for my 8ba from Red's Headers he supplied Best gaskets. Torqued them down and re torqued them after initial start up and no leaks. Again I'm sure others have different thoughts. Can't help you on the header issue.
 
30-9
Without Roy it is a blue world BUT to the rescue is MICHAEL DRISKELL @
THIRD GEN. Michael has picked up Roy's philosophy and quality.
Having said that the last sets of stud....my preference....were supplied by
Mac VanPelt....very hi quality.
Before installing any stud it's a good idea to grip the 7/16-14 end in a collet
lathe setup and check for center line truth. With the stud held as above it should
run straight and true...if it wobbles I won't use it.

OMHO.
Charlie ny
 
I am partial to Edmunds heads because the spark plug is re-located juuuust enough to get it from being over the exhaust valve (unlike Offenhausers and Edelbrocks). This allows me to run extended tip plugs that I believe are better all around. However, the most important thing about any head that you use is to get the quench right, You should shoot for .045-.050" clearance between the piston crown and the head. There are several threads here and on the H.A.M.B. on how to achieve this.

I currently have two sets of Edmunds heads modified for proper quench on my engines. Both sets were used, but in surprisingly good shape when I got them. It is interesting to note that they all required milling to bring the squish dimension close enough to do the finish work.
 
Thanks Guys.

Yes Charlie there’s a big void without Roy. What a great guy. He is surely missed.

Anyone have experience with the Reds headers and pipes? Do they fit in stock 39? Hate to keep reminding, but 85 and on creepy crawler under car I want to insure a easy fit.
 
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