My From Start to Finish 6.0L Build

[RAMurphy]

Hopefully you're using oem trays.

Really - is there any doubt from my perspective. Of course.

 

[RAMurphy]

Valve covers, intake manifold gaskets (not OEM - one area where I'm not a fan), and valve cover gaskets, grommets and bolts delivered today. Will get these covers painted and post some pictures.

 

[RAMurphy]

So, I sent emails out to Texas Speed, Vinci Performance and Black Bear Performance. Heard back from everyone but Black Bear Performance. In fact, Vinci Performance responded within 90 minutes. If I don't here back from them by tomorrow I will send a direct message from this site. I understand companies are busy but over 48 hours is a bit much. I love this group and the tune provided, but.....

 

[Tonyrodz]

So, I sent emails out to Texas Speed, Vinci Performance and Black Bear Performance. Heard back from everyone but Black Bear Performance. In fact, Vinci Performance responded within 90 minutes. If I don't here back from them by tomorrow I will send a direct message from this site. I understand companies are busy but over 48 hours is a bit much. I love this group and the tune provided, but.....

@Rocket Man had nothing but good things to say about Vinci performance. The owner is a really good guy.

 

[RAMurphy]

So, after final measurements this morning I decided to use the head gaskets that were delivered last week and recommended by Summit Racing. Should put me around 11:1 compression ratio. Now after a year plus delay I'm going to install these heads.

 

[RAMurphy]

Painted my valve covers - time to break out my curing station.

 

[RAMurphy]

So, reading through my last several threads I was not clear on the compressed thickness of the head gaskets I will be using. When I ordered my heads I was talking to a senior tech at Summit Racing and he said based on what I was building and the information I gave him that the 0.055 gaskets would be great for my build. Turns out I think his suggestion is perfect for me.

 

[RAMurphy]

Finally, progress again being made. Started installing the heads this morning. First I needed to clean and prepare the head surface:

Then I needed to install the tray and lifters:


After torquing the bolts to 108 inch pounds, I recleaned the head surface - got some oil on the block while installing the trays and lifters.

 

[RAMurphy]

Then I placed the head gasket on the block, ensuring the gasket was properly aligned - the word "front" towards the front and ensuring the rear water passages were oriented properly:

Placed the head on the block:

 

[RAMurphy]

I used ARP bolts:

Followed the prep instructions and the provided torque sequence. One side done:

And just before lunch, I finished the other side. Looks awesome: