C2 SB Valve guide wear limits...

[Jim V.]

Just ran a ball gauge thru the guides they are averaging arount .344" +-.0005. Given nominal 11/32 valve stems at .3415 (not sure on this), does .003 clearance justify guide work? These heads have been worked once over the 90k miles as evidenced by one replaced exhaust valve and positive oil seals (perfect circle). I recall Vizard recommending about .0025 on exhausts and .0015 on intakes with bronze guides...and with cast something more.

Whatcha think....Clem....Duke...other motor gurus.... Trying to avoid all unnecessary project creep on the head work.

Thanks

[Duke W.]

Re: C2 SB Valve guide wear limits...

Guide clearance and wear limits are listed in the 1963 Corvette shop manual. I assume you have one.

I like to start out at about .0010-.0015" on a street engine, a little looser on a racing engine.

The valve stems should be .3415" nominal. You're at the upper end of the OE clearance, but they should be okay if you aren't looking to build at least 100K head before the next overhaul.

Duke