jim1967

I have a stock 289 and I am about to change the cam, intake and carb. I am going put in a comp cam extreme energy xe268h with the springs that go with it. My question is has anyone had any problems with the studs pulling out of the heads?

Starfury

Err...well, it's possible with that cam. Not saying it's definitely going to happen, but if you start to hear a loud tapping, shut the motor off immediately.

My main concern would be the bottom end, though. Is it stock? Rebuilt? What kind of rod bolts are you using? That cam will wind all the way up to 6k (I know, I used to run it), which is well past where I'd trust stock rod bolts.

Oxnard Montalvo

Make sure to use ZDDP additive, or oil containing enough ZDDP along with the break-in lube or you could ruin the cam right out of the gate.

I apologize if I'm stating the obvious, I'd just hate to see you eat a cam.

jim1967

The motor was re-built about 10 years ago. I believe it is all stock. Would be safer to go with a xe262h?

I do appreciate the advise, I will be watching out for the ZDDP. Better to hear it 1 too many times than not enough..

pinboy122

watch out for this! Stud pulled up,things broke.I hope the pic works!

Starfury

With stock rod bolts, I'd stick to no more than the XE256H. That'll get you plenty of pep without having to worry much about breaking things, and you shouldn't have valve clearance issues with that cam either.

jim1967

Pinboy, what cam where you using with things came apart?
Starfury, what kind of HP would that cam put out? i will be installing a Wieand Stealth intact and Holley Avenger 570cfm

.boB

If you have press fit studs, nows' the time to get rid of them. Although you can do the job with the heads on, it's so much easier to do it with the heads off.

If you're installing a new cam with more lift and duration, you definatly need to clay the pistons. The heads just have to come off for this kind of job.

Pulling the heads really isn't that big of a deal on these old cars. 4 extra gaskets, a few more hours, and you'll have great results. I'v replaced both head gaskets on a '66
in less than a day.