What is Needed to Restore a Cylinder Head

Everything needed to restore a cylinder head to like-new condition, including basics such as:

  • Cleaning cylinder head and valve train components

  • Inspecting head for cracks, leaks, warpage, or other damage

  • Inspecting valves, seats, springs, guides, and other valve train components for wear and damage (and replacing parts that cannot be reused)

  • Grinding or cutting valves and seats

  • Restoring valve guides by knurling, relining or replacing, or reaming guides and using valves with oversized stems

  • Checking installed valve stem height, spring height and tension, etc., and reassembling the head with new valve guide seals and any other required parts

  • Resurfacing head to assure flatness and a proper seal

  • The following "extras" might be required, especially on overhead cam aluminum heads:

  • Repairing leaks or cracks

  • Straightening

  • Overhead cam line boring

  • Repairing threads

  • Replacing seats

There is no such thing as a "standard" valve job. Every job is different. An overhead cam aluminum head may require a lot more time and effort than a cast iron head off a pushrod engine. There is often no way to tell what a head will need in terms of repairs until it has been cleaned, disassembled and inspected.

Exhaust valves and springs often need to be replaced. Valve guides and/or seats may have to be replaced. The head may be warped or cracked, requiring additional repairs. The list of things included in a "complete" valve job will vary from job to job.

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All Around Automotive Repair Inc. is a full-service automotive repair and detail shop—but with a unique calling: to provide affordable service to the entire community regardless of financial circumstances.

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