DoctorD415

Alright well i just picked up a 1985 GT convertible. Been working on it for little bit now and come to aproblem im not sure to do with.Ive gotone badvalve. Whats would your advice be to solving this problem. I don't have a ton of money to just go all out here, but i do want to do the job right and done well. Buy new heads, fix the one i have? Any advice? Also if you have any advice how much do you think it would cost to do that particluar thing?

mattdel

what do you mean 1 bad valve? is it physically busted? or maybe the cam lobe is gone? whats up

Bullitt94

I've been in a similar situation before withmy 5.0 F-150. I was a little strapped on cash and lost compression on one cylinder; I was looking at a warped head or bad valve.So what I did was call around to different auto salvage yards and found a used head assembly for $45. Then I went to Advanced and bought a gasket kit (head gaskets, intake gaskets, etc.), which ended up being about $50. So, since I did the swap myself, I was only into it for $95. However, you are taking a certain risk buying used parts from a salvage yard, but if you are really strapped it's an option. Keep in mind, my F-150 is not the pride 'n' joy of the fleet, either.

You could also buy new valves, seals, springs, etc. and rebuild the head yourself, too.

Bullitt94

God point. Bad cam is a different possibility.

DoctorD415

ya im losing compression. I think the the valve is clogged up, because im shooting raw gas into the pipes and smoking up. I've failed emissions alsobecause im running way too rich, so i've got to address the problemasap. I've tried a few different things to try and help the problem, but nothing has been working. Also how would youadjust the valves on these engines?

mattdel

pull the head and see what the problem is first. if it was stuck open even the tiniest bit you would have 0 compression in that cylinder, and you would be backfiring like an m16

WhiteWindsor

I would say you have a valve hanging also, Pull the head and look at your pistons. When a valve hangs open there is a possibility the piston will slap itand damage your slugs. Happend in my 93 f-250, i just wound up buying a reman. with a 50,000 mile warrany for $1100.

Bullitt94

I agree with these fellas. You're going to have to pull the head and have a look.

I believe the Haynes manual has some inspection tips in it for the head and valves that may help out, too.