header/port divider/cam

[Anonymous]

hello, a friend if offering me a me a 272 deg cam and a set of used headers for my early 80's 200ci (in a 62 econoline van). I've upgraded to a weber 32/36 and a DSII thanks to the help I"ve received on this site. I am primarily interested in simplicity, reliability, and durability, mileage playing second fiddle to those, but a considerable factor non the less. So:

1)will I notice any real gain from the 272 cam or headers?
2)where are port dividers available for the early 80's head, and what does it take to install?
3)what does a cam like this cost new?


Many thanks to all those who've helped me here... David in Mt Baldy CA

 

[BIGREDRASA]

I can shed some light on #2. Maybe not light, confusion. Check out his Poll/Topic: http://fordsix.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=49390&highlight=

 

[Anonymous]

looks like the headers are a mixed bag at best (that is with the port devider). I don't need more headaches on this old van... becoming preoccupied in one place means other restoration gets neglected.... I guess it's a crap-shoot... what about the 272deg cam?

 

[wallaka]

If you are running a stock cam, the 272 will wake it up with the mods you've done already. Headers wouldn't hurt, but I'd personally skip out on the port divider. As you've seen, there is no evidence that it does ANYTHING other than be a bother.

 

[Anonymous]

How much if at all would the 272 cam improve mileage (driving mostly 70mph at 3000 rpm)? What about the headers and SOUND? (you sit right next to the engine in the van as it is) What about Headers and mileage?

 

[wallaka]

The headers definitely won't hurt mileage. They will be a bit louder, though. If they aren't ceramic coated, they will let more heat out too...that ain't good.

I don't think the 272 cam will hurt mileage much, maybe a little. I just don't know.

 

[BIGREDRASA]

looks like the headers are a mixed bag at best (that is with the port devider). I don't need more headaches on this old van... becoming preoccupied in one place means other restoration gets neglected.... I guess it's a crap-shoot... what about the 272deg cam?

I think you misunderstood the intent of the post. I installed my headers and new exhaust with a "quiet" muffler. I love the sound. It is no louder on the road, for me, and the low hum is pleasant, for me. The issue of the port divider is another matter. I bypassed it because I already had the head back on, and it didn 't seem to conclusively prove an advantage.

By all means get the headers. Only one caution, you may need to rejet so the end cylinders don't lean out too much. That being said, I have another thread on the HW 32/36 specs. I would love for you to share any information you can on jetting, sources, prices, etc. Check your PMs.

 

[wallaka]

I meant as far as loudness, they will be louder inside the van because the cast iron manifold muffles the sound a bit more. Exhaust tone is another matter.

 

[Patrick66]

I meant as far as loudness, they will be louder inside the van because the cast iron manifold muffles the sound a bit more. Exhaust tone is another matter.

maybe header wrap would help muffle it. just a thought.

 

[Anonymous]

thanks for the header info... very helpful. I got my 32/36 from Langdon Stovebolt, (w/stovebolt adapter and harley type 2" low profile air cleaner to fit in the engine "doghouse") and It seems I've been pretty lucky with it. I do get what I think is unburned fuel when I'm coasting down a grade making low backfire kind of sounds when I'm going down a steep grade, using the engine to control speed. I was going to start a thread on that in the future. Regarding the jetting, I'll have to look up the numbers I finally settled on, can't remember off hand. Where should I respond with those specs?

 

[CZLN6]

Howdy David:

I've been reluctant to respond for a couple of reasons. But here goes-
1)will I notice any real gain from the 272 cam or headers?
A- Yes, but the cam with 272 degrees of duration will move your power band up in the rpm range and you may noticeable lose low end torque. Upgrading to a header performance exhaust over a typical stock system will give you a power improvement throught the rpm range. Depending on your overall tune, you may see a slight increase in economy too.

2)where are port dividers available for the early 80's head, and what does it take to install?
A- port dividers are available from several sources. You should check with our host, Classic Inlines first. A port divider should be hand fitted for a snug, interference fit and welded into the siamized port, as per the instructions. Folks here have tried various shortcuts to avoid removal of the head with some success and many frustrations. If not properly installed and it comes loose it can rattle annoyingly. As far as their effectiveness, I believe in them. While the effect may not be profound, I believe in doing all I can to even out flow and efficiency. If you're willing to spend the money on the headers to improve efficiency why not get it all?

3)what does a cam like this cost new?
A- Depending on new cam or regrind, quality and corperate advertizing cost can vary a bunch. A discount grind coud be as little as $100.00 and as much as several hundred.

Now some questions-
What is your current exhaust system? What is the quality of the used header? Check it carefully for rust and corrosion.

Is this cam new? What are the rest of the specs on this cam? Lift? Lobe centers? New lifters and cam timing gears and chain should also be considered basic. It will not be simple. While the engine is apart for install you should consider some performance upgrades to the head to take advantage of the cams potential.

The bitterness of a poorly thoughtout plan lasts long after the sweetness of a good deal has passed.

That's my two cents, for what it's worth.

Adios, David

 

[Anonymous]

thanks a lot david, your posts are very helpful. I am definitely going to wait on the cam for now; running a 3 speed in the van I need all my low end, and per your more holistic approach, I think I'll wait till the next engine gets built to really dial out all the custom aspects. (and research all the nuances thoroughly)

As for the Headers, I'll likely put those on before too long, pulling the head, and using the port divider; possibly having it braised in place? (after reading the post specifically dealing w/ the subject) (have a local welder who has done well with cast iron for me in the past)

Thnaks again.

 

[grocery getter]

As for the Headers, I'll likely put those on before too long, pulling the head, and using the port divider; possibly having it braised in place? (after reading the post specifically dealing w/ the subject) (have a local welder who has done well with cast iron for me in the past)

Thnaks again.

is there another reason to pull the head? if it's just for the divider, i'm not sure that's a good idea.

 

[Anonymous]

Why's that? I kind of wanted to look at the pistons as I burned 2 up about 15K ago (and subsequently rebuilt the engine) and never figured out why for sure. I've changed my carb and been through things time and again. Was thinking that pulling the head would give me a good Idea if things are wearing well? .... yes I'm a hobby mechanic...