Considerations When Buying Cylinder Heads
A cylinder head affects the engine performance so the right criterion for selection is essential to the proper operation. An efficient head facilitates the delivery of power within the chosen RPM and works in tandem with the camshaft and exhaust systems to ensure that the engine is working at optimal levels. There are different brands with varying head configurations and buyers often end up choosing poor products due to confusion.
While recommendations, price and manufacturers matter, here are the factors that should be given priority.
Suitability and Performance
The chosen head should be suitable for your car engine and the intended application. This may seem like an obvious aspect but with the availability of a wide range of aftermarket parts, you can never be too certain. Ensure that the characteristics of each product match with your predetermined requirements depending on your car and its use. The head should always have the right flow features to suit the application after installation. Important variables include the engine displacement, camshaft lift and the target horsepower.
Engines that are mostly idle and in part throttle require heads with stock or moderately high runner volumes because this intake will facilitate in keeping the velocity of air high. For engines that are usually in full throttle, you should look for products that offer as much as possible in terms of runner volumes, airflow and valve sizes. However, make certain that the car's cam and induction system can handle the chosen performance.
Material Type
All cylinder heads are built resiliently and rigidly to promote uniformity in the distribution of forces exerted during fuel combustion. The primary materials used by manufacturers are cast iron and aluminium and the choice will depend on the set requirements, budget and preference. Cast iron is considered a good choice because it is durable, not susceptible to damage and requires minimal maintenance.
It also has different performance options such as modified flow and enlarged valves for efficiency. On the other hand, the material is heavy and retains heat. Aluminium is lightweight with high conductivity, is customisable and generally has more torque than the alternative. However, it is expensive and vulnerable to damage such as corrosion.
Combustion Chamber Volume
Larger combustion chambers in cylinders are suitable for use with a range of aftermarket pistons especially of the domed variety. Smaller chambers are typically used with only flat-top or slightly domed pistons but they have a higher compression ratio. Both are good choices as long as you ensure that there is no interference problems related to the valve-to-piston clearance.
For more information or assistance, talk to companies like Reconditioning Services.