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#1287172 11/12/2018 5:51 PM
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,038
L
'Bolter
'Bolter
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Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,038
I obtained a previously rebuilt non-working 235 engine (1961 block)for parts. It has a 1953 dated head (casting #3701887) that I had cleaned and magnafluxed, showing no cracks. From the parts list I understand the '53 head was used on both splash oiler and high pressure engines. Since I have two trucks that were retrofitted with 235s, both with '58 blocks, I thought I might go ahead and have it rebuilt and store it for possible use later. I understand that the '53 head is probably the least desirable in terms of compression but my trucks are used for relatively light duty and I am not interested in high performance. I did note that the valve cover bolt holes on the manifold side extend into the water jacket of the head. Is that a problem? I would assume thread sealant would be necessary if I used it. Is this a good idea or do I just have an oversized desk ornament?


1937 Chevy 1/2 ton
1942 Chevy 1/2 ton
1947 Diamond T Model 509
1951 Chevy 1/2 ton
1950 Chevy COE Model 5700 ~ "Barney" ~ And more pix
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Posts: 29,269
Bubba - Curmudgeon
Bubba - Curmudgeon
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 29,269
I thought that all USA 216 and 235 side covers ended at the top of the block?

I thought that 3701887 was a head used on 1953 235 truck engines - 18 head bolts (not 15 bolts as used on earlier 235s and all 216s)?


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Kettle Custodian (pot stirrer)
Kettle Custodian (pot stirrer)
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How about using studs in the valve cover bolt holes that hit water and use Loctite or thread sealer for a one-time fix? If it's an 18-bolt head, it should fit the later blocks OK.
Jerry


"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
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L
'Bolter
'Bolter
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I went and counted head bolts, it has got 18. I like the idea of using studs, so you don't end up with coolant leaking every time you take off the valve cover. Thanks Tim and Jerry!
Kent


1937 Chevy 1/2 ton
1942 Chevy 1/2 ton
1947 Diamond T Model 509
1951 Chevy 1/2 ton
1950 Chevy COE Model 5700 ~ "Barney" ~ And more pix
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 10,274
5
Renaissance Man
Renaissance Man
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Joined: Mar 2010
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A 53 235 did not come with 4 bolt valve covers. They came with the two acorn nuts on the top. Someone drilled those holes to accept a later valve cover.


1952 5-window - return to "as built" condition | 1950 3100 with a 235 and a T-5 transmission
Joined: Mar 2002
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'Bolter
'Bolter
Joined: Mar 2002
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I have seen a 1953 235 low pressure engine with that style of head. It was a time of transition.


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truckernix #1287906 11/18/2018 12:45 AM
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5
Renaissance Man
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Originally Posted by truckernix
I have seen a 1953 235 low pressure engine with that style of head. It was a time of transition.
What aspect of the head are you referring to? Number of bolt holes? Location of valve cover screws?
Carl


1952 5-window - return to "as built" condition | 1950 3100 with a 235 and a T-5 transmission

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