I'm currently doing a 355 build using a comp XE262H and 981-16 valve springs (recommended for the cam). In trying to keep this build low buck, I ghetto ground the stock retainers instead of machining the guide seat and installing new seals. Well, I've had a change of mind, since I'm spending more money than I wanted to already, and will machine the seats with the appropriate tools at home and install new seals. Now, I want to replace the retainers I ground. I called Comp, they recommended 742-16, which are 7º retainers.
My question is, what degree keepers do the stock L31 vortec heads come with? 7º or 10º? Will the stock retainers work, if they are 7º or should I buy Comp keepers too?
If I was going to getto grind anything it sure would be a few thou off the top of the guides before a few thou off the spring retainers. Think about it!
Other ways to slice this problem are of course to use beehives or get some locks with the locking band lowered .050 this raises the retainer that amount, then then chase that with a .050 shim under the spring.
Other ways to slice this problem are of course to use beehives or get some locks with the locking band lowered .050 this raises the retainer that amount, then then chase that with a .050 shim under the spring.
. I think nearly every stock retainer is 7 degree... aftermarket offers 10 degree for high pressure racing valve springs because the wider angle is harder to pull/force through the retainer...
Thanks again for the help guys. I machined down the guides with the comp cams tool. It was very easy. I pulled the studs and sent them off to the machine shop to have them tapped.
I'm using Comp Cams magnum 1.6 roller tip self-aligning rocker arms with Mr. Gasket stud kit #1076
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