Early last year I posted a question on the old forum re: guide knurling. Ted responded that he prefered screw-in bronze guides, etc., and yet my mechanic (who worked at a Ford dealer in the late 50s) still feels that if the original guides are not really worn, and geometry is near perfect, mild knurling would be fine for a stock motor (he did this with many Y-blocks over the years, successfully). Though I can find no one else who agrees, I was not convinced he is wrong as I DO like the idea (better lubrication/expansion fit/valve cooling characteristics of iron, AND lower cost, etc.).

It has occured to me recently though, that he likely has not knurled the guides on a Y-block overhaul using the stainless STEEL valves I will supply. Nor has he had the chance to follow-up on one that has seen high mileage on unleaded fuel (lead was a great upper-cylinder lube). Most of his vintage rebuilds become show cars, or VERY low use, occasional drivers (since I put at least 8K a year on my '55, I will rebuild with longevity in mind). Though I am sure he will follow my instructions, he DOES require a lot of stroking to get him off the dime and start any vintage project at his age, so I had better have something more specific to tell him than "nobody does guide knurling anymore".

I need to make a decision before he starts the head work (likely when the snow slows down his normal shop business). Any suggestions?

6 VOLTS/POS. GRD. NW INDIANA