Thanks Paul, I wont do anything without expert advice, hopefully with more than one opinion. Today I read and article that suggests that Ford heads (generally and not Y heads specifically) respond very well to a 30 degree back cut on the valves. I did a search here but didn't find any info on this. The article was written in 2009 and at that time back cutting a valve ran about $4.00 each so the cost shouldn't be exorbitant. Does any one have an opinion on this?

Mark

1956 Mercury M100
1955 Ford Fairlane Club Sedan
Delta, British Columbia

Mark: the advertised compression on a 292 for those heads was 8.5:1. However, Mummert says those ratings are about 12% high when figuring in later composite head gaskets. So, that leaves them at roughly 7.5:1. If they have never been milled, might be a thought to cut them some. Ted says the engines can often benefit quite some from a good compression increase. Of course there is the issue of what fuel you want to pay for?. Don't know, but going to 1.94 valves on those heads might cause a shrouding problem? Call me if you want to kick it around..

Paul

My 292 block is currently in the shop getting rebored, line honed, crank ground and balanced, flywheel and pressure plate included.. The ECK C heads will follow soon. Is there anything I should do to the ports before I take them in? I am looking for a late model set of exhaust manifolds. Verne Schumann suggested that, if feasible I should consider 1.94 intake valves. I see that John Mummert has 1.84 intake valves as well. Any advice?

Mark

1956 Mercury M100
1955 Ford Fairlane Club Sedan
Delta, British Columbia