54 manifold heat valve

[Brad H.]

Hi, is the valve supposed to move freely? mine only moves with firm pressure, can you take this off with it on the car, maybe tapping it with a punch (what side) and what to do to free it up? Thanks again, Brad.

[John L.]

Re: 54 manifold heat valve

Hi Brad,
I will defer to others more experienced but it is my understanding that at some point early in production it was determined the heat valve was not needed and thus a "block off" plate was installed between the exhaust manifold and intake. On my 54' I did not bother getting this to turn but made sure it looked ok from the outside. Lets see if I am correct on this or not.
Good luck!
John Lanning

[Brad H.]

Re: 54 manifold heat valve

John, I remember that also, mine being stuck in the closed position (I think) has turned my Manidold white, does this hurt anything? or a less vaccum( wipers are slow) if the valve moves freely does it effect anything? I want to do the as most have done, anyone else please chime in if you would, thanks, Brad.

[Chris S.]

Re: 54 manifold heat valve

the valve should move freely
yes - there is a block off plate that goes between the Intake and exhaust manifold
It will not affect the wipers - wipers work off intake vacume

[Brad H.]

Re: 54 manifold heat valve

Hi Chris, can I free that valve up in place and if so will it tap out, and if so is there a pin or shaft that can be cleaned up so as to rotate freely? thanks again, Brad.