Started on the engine today. I found the issue:



Block looks fine. Head is oiled and sooty at that location but I think planing will take care of it.



Had dexcool in it.

The sludge was, well, horrible. I had to dig to get to a couple of the head bolts. The tappets did not want to come out and will be replaced along with the push rods. Check this out:





When I took my first engine out (the only one I've ever taken care of since new) the rocker assembly was just metal coated oil.

The valley gasket was very warped.

A mess.

Bottom:



Tomorrow my buddy and I will remove the rest to take to the shop Monday.

 

Just a little sludge

 

I guess I need some cam recommendations. How will I know whether it needs replacing? If it does, what should I get. I know nothing about this subject. At all.

 

I went with a Crower cam, works nice and only a little ruff at idle. You can normally tell the cam has wear when it discolors where the lifters run. Also make sure you instal new lifters with a new cam. Could probably find you the part number and that if you need as well.

 

Thanks Grover. I ordered some LR lifters and push rods a little earlier. Is there a US supplier of camshafts? Or somewhere else quick and cheap?

Is the object of an aftermarket cam to raise hp and torque? I'm really clueless on this subject. I'm googling but not learning much.

 

Summit has one. $249

http://m.summitracing.com/search?keyword=Crower%2053229

On my phone so I can't properly link it.

 

Email this guy at Crower dj@crower.com
50229 Is the part number. They sent it directly to me.

 

Sorry for the long wait for a reply. Crower seems to be the popular cam and it is affordable. If there is any question about the cam at the the shop I'm going to replace it.

 

With all that sludge i would be surprised if the lifters were spining as the should and not damaging the cam lobes.

 

Outrageous amount of sludge. Amazing. If it had value I'd be rich. Any reason why I would need to replace the rockers and springs? I hope not.