Genuine 1983 Chevrolet Caprice Cylinder Head

1983 Chevrolet Caprice Cylinder Head Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q:

  What are the steps and considerations involved in overhauling cylinder heads in V8 engine on 1983 Chevrolet Caprice?

  Posted by Garvin Y.

  A:

  Original cylinder heads as well as new and re-manufactured ones are easily found in the market with dealerships and auto parts stores offering them. Because of the heuristic nature of the technique required to disassemble and inspect the heads, and because spare parts may not be easily available, it might be most cost effective for the home mechanic to buy new heads and swap them. In the case that one does not have workshop facilities, the cylinder heads may be transported to a professional automotive machine or to a GM dealer for the overhaul process. It is however advisable to take much care in the event that the complete engine is being overhauled at the same instance. Therefore if the decision is made to redo the cylinder heads it is good to know some of the procedures that are involved together with the tools used and replacement materials required. First of all, you need to employ a valve spring compressor to compress the spring and remove the valve locking keys; and do it individually for each valve. When the keys are produced, let go of the spring and pull out the spring cap, spring shield (if any), spring, and spring damper; these go into number box or holder used in the course of cylinder head removal as they are all valve mechanism composites. Then, take off the oil seals from the stem of each valve and be sure to use new ones when reinstalling; or if present, any spring shims at the bottom of the valve spring should also be withdrawn. Last of all there is valve mechanism removal, and each valve should be pulled out individually and placed in the numbered box or rack to avoid making confusion between the number one and the number two valve, and all the valve components.

  Answered by GM Parts Specialist Julian / Feb 14, 2024