tgilligan

Hey Guys,

Going to be replacing the valve guide seals based upon some earlier threads and some engine diagnosis. I'm going to pull the heads and have them shaved to ensure no issue, replace head gaskets, etc.

When I'm doing the work I'm thinking about replacing the springs, retainers, locks, etc with either something from CompCams or Edelbrock. Any idea as to if there are stock inner/outer dimensions of springs I should be looking at? Wanted to see if there was a 'stock' option to select from these aftermarkets or if I need to go out there with my dial caliper and measure them to see but wanted to try and snag the parts before I start opening everything up. I'm seeing everything from 1.5 to 1.625 OD with various install heights. Anyone pick up a set from Edelbrock or CompCams that can supply a model number form a kit?

Warhead

#6 heads came with umbrella seals, not really a seal, more of a splash guard.
Really, you need to have the guides checked for clearance.
New guides, and cut them for positive seals.
A valve job would be a welcome addition to ANY high mileage engine.
Springs will depend on camshaft choice, stockers start at 1.37 OD (you can go as large as 1.44), deep spring seats will require a 1.800 tall spring after you ditch the rotators. If you keep the rotating RPM limiters (factory rotating retainers) you will need a 1.67 tall spring.
What camshaft???
Hope you have a new timing chain on it.
JMO
Suprised no one else responded to you.

cutlassefi

X2
I can get you everything you need if you like.
Going by the #6 heads it's a '71 350?

captjim

#5 heads are 1968-69, #6 is 1970, #7 is 1971 and #7a is 1972

Sugar Bear

If you haven't pulled the heads yet consider doing a compression test first. This will tell you if there is a problem and help to locate it.

You could change the seals without pulling the heads by using compressed air. By pulling the heads and replacing the steel/factory head gaskets (if it still has them) you will lower the compression ratio which could be recouped by milling the heads as you mentioned. Either way keep everything in order and put them back in the same position e.g., rockers, pushrods etc.

Replace the timing chain and gears if you have not done so already.

Have fun!!!

brownbomber77

Ford "premium" valve stem seals that go over the guide fit Olds....so you don't have to reduce the guide. They're $1.19 per seal at Rockauto, but sure beats the price of machining the guide.

oldcutlass

My .02, if your not rebuilding the engine lower end and the engine is basically stock, there is absolutely no reason for an exotic valve train. Do a proper valve job and invest in other things.