[troutmaskreplic]

Hi All,
I'm new to the forum, so please be gentle.

I'd like to install an '88 turbo head on to a 1988 N/A block - these are parts I already have and would like to use them. It seems that all the major things to do are cc the head, shave it an appropriate amount to raise the compression ratio, and install an N/A cam, rockers and so on. A ROUGH calculation suggests I'd need to shave the head ~0.070 in., which is well within the .150 limit suggested by Steve Smith's Pony Stock book.

What am I missing?

I've searched this forum for ideasand advice but haven't come up with specific information regarding this conversion, just a couple of general handwaving references to having sucessfully done it.

Please respond specifically to the question above; e.g., "what needs to be done?", "is it doable?"; but not "buy a different head."

thx,
tmr

[tripleblack]

I notice this is languishing with no responses, so I'll take a stab at it.

Shaving the head that amount will probably work, though I think the exhaust valves are slightly oversized compared to the same year NA heads. Since I am paranoid, I would check for valve/piston clearance before doing a final button-up on the build. If you don't know the complete history on the head (ie, if it's been re-worked before) this is particularly important.

In general terms the shaving will help raise compression close to the stock NA spec, but there will be differences with the flow characteristics. The intake side will flow about the same as the NA version, while the exhaust side will flow better (a result of its ex-turbo heritage).

Otherwise, I don't see anything that will stop you doing this from a mechanical aspect. Best of luck.

Originally Posted by troutmaskreplic

Hi All,
I'm new to the forum, so please be gentle.

I'd like to install an '88 turbo head on to a 1988 N/A block - these are parts I already have and would like to use them. It seems that all the major things to do are cc the head, shave it an appropriate amount to raise the compression ratio, and install an N/A cam, rockers and so on. A ROUGH calculation suggests I'd need to shave the head ~0.070 in., which is well within the .150 limit suggested by Steve Smith's Pony Stock book.

What am I missing?

I've searched this forum for ideasand advice but haven't come up with specific information regarding this conversion, just a couple of general handwaving references to having sucessfully done it.

Please respond specifically to the question above; e.g., "what needs to be done?", "is it doable?"; but not "buy a different head."

thx,
tmr