VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND EARLIER 1912-1928 Head Problems

I'm off work today and so I decided to check out the source of oil in my oil change pan. Turned out it was only oil on the surface. The good news is that I didn't lose oil as I had suspected but the bad news is I am losing water. I started the car up and noticed that nice clean water was running out from underneath the valve cover and down the valve lifter and then the block just behind cylinder number 2 (from the front.). I took the cover off and the good news was I could only find water in one place. Upon closer inspection I noted a hairline crack on the side of the head just at and below the top of the head. That was my water source.

So unfortunately, AntiqueMechanic's suspicions were correct about the head. Since he is a Pacific Northwester I was wondering if he knew anyone in the Everett area who he trusts who could inspect and hopefully repair the head. If repairs are not possible where does one go for a replacement head?

This is a very common problem for single exhaust port heads as there is too much heat generated near the port. It's also extremely difficult to find a good replacement. Welding is an option but 9 out of 10 times it cannot be done successfully, especially if its inside the port, but sure worth a try. I'm not trying to put you off, just letting you know the reality. Down hear in Aus. a lot of pre 28's are running a 28 2 port head. I've never heard of a 28 head cracking so it is a possible solution for you, assuming its not a show car.
Speaking of single port heads I've just acquired a very good Mason 407 spare head for my 1915 Amesbury Special, it was like winning the lottery for me.
Chris

Hi Dansker,

Chris has made a good point re changing to a 28 head, as there would be a slight power gain from the 2 ports, larger valves and off set rocker arms.

Good luck.

Ray

Chris and Ray

Thanks for the recommendation. Other than changing the exhaust manifold what other modifications would need to be made to make a 28 head work?

Second question. I suspect finding a '23 head in good condition will be tough. Do you think a 28 will be any easier?

Antique Mechanic is on his way to Flint but I'm sure he will be checking in when he gets a chance. There is a fellow here in the Columbia River Region who bought several '28 engines to keep them out of the scrap pile. He is selling parts off of them. He does not have a computer so send a PM and I will give you his phone number. I know it is several hours away but it is not that bad. Tell him you are looking to possibly convert your earlier motor and he will probably have most if not all of the components to do that. You will still have to re-condition them at a local machine shop.

There will be a few little problems but nothing serious. The 28 head will bolt straight on without any difficulty and uses the same head gasket.
Problem 1. As the 28 has larger valves you might have a possible fuel supply shortage. I'm not sure about this as haven't tried it, but there are a lot of early Chevs down here running 28 heads successfully. A carby off a late 27 RAJXO or a 28 RAKXO (with air hole blocked off) will fix it if needed.
Problem 2. You'll need a 28 exhaust manifold and possible modification the your engine pipe.
That's about it, but be careful on your first run as you'll think you have fitted a turbocharger - just kidding but you will enjoy the difference.
Chris

I've located an old Chevy guy less than 30 miles from home who has a number of different head options. We'll see what happens.

Thanks everyone for the great advice. Where else can you get international experts' help just for the asking?!