K301 Head Gasket

[scifi4all 6]

I noticed a little staining on my engine at the head. So after reviewing posts on here, I decided to change the head gasket myself. Never saw the inside of one of these engines before. I believe this head gasket has never been replaced in 37 years.

Before:

To the more experienced people on this site. Is there anything, based on these photos that may be a problem? Such as the way the fuel is burning or how the engine is functioning. I rebuilt the carb last year and having never tuned one before, I had no point of reference or experience for adjusting it properly. Other than the manuals instructions.

Is there anything else I should have done while I had it apart? I know it's a little late now, but I will know better next time.

After:

Thanks for looking! :D

[dobeleo 7]

I would suggest cleaning your valves and lap them too.

[scifi4all 6]

Dobeleo what does lap them mean? Cleaning I understand. I was in too much of a hurry to put the head back on without attempting further work. I have no experience with valves or the the internal workings of an engine. It seems a little daunting.

If I remove the head to perform any additional work, can I reuse the new head gasket? Or does a new one need to be installed each time the head is removed? I have not run the engine yet, but have torqued the bolts down to specs.

[The Toolman 22]

Don't re-use head gaskets....

[dobeleo 7]

lapping compound is an abrasive compound that is used to mate the valve and seat together. you would need a spring compressor to take the valve springs out. Next you would apply some lapping compound the the valve where it would make contact with the seat (its like abrassive tooth paste). Next you need a lapping tool, it is a handle with a suction cup on the end, you stick the suction cup to the valve and you spin the valve by sliding the handle between your hands.

Pretty simple process. If you do a search for valve lapping you will get a much better discription. The compound and tool you can get at an auto parts store. Both for less then $15.00

[scifi4all 6]

Thanks guys!

I was assuming that I would not be able to re-use the gasket, but I felt it was better to ask than assume.

Thanks dobeleo for the explanation. I really had no idea about lapping, but now understand the reason for the procedure.

:D

[rickv1957 73]

Looks like spark plug is burning pretty clean,indicating a good working carb with good fuel mixture,Rick

[WH nut 553]

Looks like you could lean it out just a tad

[scifi4all 6]

WHnut,

Is your opinion based on the condition of the spark plug or the build up in the engine?

Just wondering which I should be looking for or at.

Thanks!

[WH nut 553]

Both, it looks a little rich, when you get it back together just reset the carb. Back out the high speed (the screw on top of the carb under the throttle shaft) until it flutters then run it in until it flutters then back it out until it runs smooth. This is done wide open throttle.

[chevy030303 0]

it looks very nice :D