Small Block Cylinder Head Angle Wanted

[Eric V.]

I have a set of 461X heads that have good date codes for my '63, but a previous owner installed screw-in rocker studs without using a tap guide so several of the studs on each head have a noticeable tilt one way or another. I have a couple of ways in mind to correct this problem, but it would simplify the task of setting the heads up on my mill if I knew the angle between the central axis of the rocker studs and the head to block mating surface. Can anyone tell me what this angle is or point me to a source of blueprint info for a small block head that would have this angle?
Also, I would appreciate any thoughts anybody might have on how to fix this problem - someone may have a better idea than mine. The studs the PO installed did not have integral jam nuts so the stud bosses were not faced off. I plan to face off the bosses and install screw-in studs with integral jam nuts after doing something to correct the tilt problem.

[Clem Z.]

Re: Small Block Cylinder Head Angle Wanted

I have a set of 461X heads that have good date codes for my '63, but a previous owner installed screw-in rocker studs without using a tap guide so several of the studs on each head have a noticeable tilt one way or another. I have a couple of ways in mind to correct this problem, but it would simplify the task of setting the heads up on my mill if I knew the angle between the central axis of the rocker studs and the head to block mating surface. Can anyone tell me what this angle is or point me to a source of blueprint info for a small block head that would have this angle?
Also, I would appreciate any thoughts anybody might have on how to fix this problem - someone may have a better idea than mine. The studs the PO installed did not have integral jam nuts so the stud bosses were not faced off. I plan to face off the bosses and install screw-in studs with integral jam nuts after doing something to correct the tilt problem.

i would use a end mill to enlarge the holes to the correct size for a helicoil for the 7/16"-14 thread on the bottom of the studs. this should cleanup the misalignment. i do not have the angle of the studs. i would just get a good head and set it up the mill to get the stud angle

[Clem Z.]

Re: Small Block Cylinder Head Angle Wanted

i checked a GM drw. i have and it does not list the stud angle BUT using a protractor it show the stud angle is 11 degrees from the head gasket surface.

[Eric V.]

Re: Small Block Cylinder Head Angle Wanted

Thanks for the info Clem - 11 degrees will get me close and if I can't find the exact angle before I'm ready to do this project I will use your suggestion to set up a good head in the mill to establish the angle.