84 shovelhead ...james steel with silicone rocker gaskets torque

[billd1969]

Im curious if the same lbs torque used for regular gaskets is used with james steel with silicone ones...im assuming sequence is the same also?

[JBinNC]

I don't see why not. I like 18-20 ft.lb. on the nuts. If any of the studs start to pull out of the head at that torque, those holes need to be helicoiled so the studs stay anchored. (Pulled studs are the biggest cause of gasket leaks, and the problem gets worse as these old heads age.)

Jim

[billd1969]

idk... i believe my father started with hand tight, then torqued 8lbs, 12lbs, 15lbs...but they were the regular type gaskets...

[JBinNC]

idk... i believe my father started with hand tight, then torqued 8lbs, 12lbs, 15lbs...but they were the regular type gaskets...

You might get away with 15 ft.lb., but remember, the rocker box supports the rocker arms and they are subject to considerable cyclical forces.

Jim