Sadly, the winter in Northern Ohio has begun and I performed the yearly ritual of "winterizing" of my summer toys. But the season is bittersweet as it is now time to turn some wrenchs!
I suspected I did not have a good seal on my head gasket due to the increased film of oil forming on the fins of the cylinders and the outboard carbs. I pulled the motor from the frame on my K3 and unbolted the head- the 4 phillips head bolts that are located in the center of the head and are recessed had never been tightened. Someone had there dirty little fingers in the engine at one time and left them standing 3/4" proud of their seats. Maybe this is the problem, maybe not, but it can't be helping!
So, now that I have the head off, what can I do for some more pep? I can't find a cam for under $200 that is made for the standard displacement (they all seem to be oriented for the big bore kits). How about a multi angle valve grind? I've read that the OEM valves should NOT be reground due to being surface hardened and coated. Even if I was to get some aftermarket valves, is it even worth it to do a valve grind alone? I mean, I know it will help flow, but will it even provide a noticable improvement in performance? My guess is probably not... anyone else's take?