I went to a local machine shop to ask about reconditioning the G heads from my '71 455. (#'s matching original motor) The guy suggested replacing the rocker arm girdle set up with stud mounted ones. (same as a small block chevy)

Is the original set up a weak design or is this guy just 'off his rocker' ? (pardon the pun)

 

He's actually right. but not because its weaker. Giving the Olds motor the option of an adjustable valve train after you resurface (cut) the head, or decking the block will fix the geometry issues you will have. Changing these to say a Comp Cams 1442 roller rocker adjustable kit is your good economy set (at about $250ish), but the Harland Sharp billett aluminum rollers are the higher grade stuff. This is also helpful if you are going with a healthier cam, and a bit more performance than a stock build.

BUT order the stuff yourself from www.rocketracingperformance.com (Olds guys YEAH) and take them to the shop. the shop will most likely charge you and extra 10-15% if he orders those for you.

John

 

The Comp Cams kit is great. I installed it in my 455.