16/80 Cylinder Head Torque

[ian wayne]

Hello all, 
Does anyone know the correct torque value for the cylinder head nuts on a 1937 Weller engine?

The sparse documentation I have found, shows the tightening sequence (good!), and mentions that all the bolts (sic) should be made "tight".  Not very helpful!

I'm not exactly sure what type of head gasket (seems there have been upgrades / modifications over the years) is fitted.  However, from the records that came with the car, it is likely to be whatever Brian Eacott was supplying around 2016.  If the type of gasket has any bearing on the torque spec, that would be helpful to know.

[Big col]

If memory serves me correctly, 45ft/lb is the start point. I suppose it all depends upon the conditions of the studs and block. If its had lots of serious quality work reconditioning done, then you may be able to up that to 55. If it is a block that has not been cared for over the years then it may not be advisable to push it.
It's a guessing game deciding if the studs have wasted and are week or have oxidised with the block are are seized solid.

[B.P.Bird]

Ian,
Two points:
1) The Ace (post war) General Instructions gives a figure of 40 lbs/ft and I don't think the engines differed in this respect in the nineteen thirties. Personally I feel safer with a figure of 35 lbs/ft and anything more than 40 lbs/ft is rather alarming and
2) As you mention a 16/80 I'll mention that I am green with envy - any chance of posting a picture please

Barrie

[ian wayne]

Hi Barrie,
Thanks for the advice.  From what you and Colin (thanks a s well!) have said, I will try it at 40 lbs.  The block was reconditioned during the rebuild, so that seems safe.  Speaking of which, attached is a picture of me with former owner Robert Jewers at Pebble Beach last year.  Robert is the one who commissioned a years-long restoration of the 16/80, so almost all of the credit for the car's quality goes to him! It's a little late, but I should probably submit an article to ACtion! about the Pebble experience.

[Big col]

What a beauty

[B.P.Bird]

Ian,
I am even more green now - was just BRG, but now the full A.C. Racing Green. What a beautiful machine
Barrie

[ian wayne]

Thanks!  BRG - pretty funny!