Torque Specs needed for 1940 Special- PLEASE HELP!

I'm just finishing out my first Buick- A 1940 Special (Series 40) with the 243 straight 8.

Does someone know the torque specs when installing the head?

THANKS IN ADVANCE FOR THE HELP!!!!!

Jason

According to the shop manual the cylinder head bolt tension should be 65-70 Ft.lbs. I recomend you to buy a new printed copy of "Buick Shop Manual 1940".

Jan

Dear JVal4:

There is a very specific pattern for tightening head bolts on a straight eight.

Basically, the pattern can be described as follows: start in the middle of the head and work from one side to the other alternately and work alternatively bolt by bolt towards each end. Take them up first in this pattern to about 20 lbs torque with a torque wrench, then about 10 foot lbs on each step, making about 5 or 6 passes over the whole head. It's slow going, but it's on right when you do it this way. Shop manuals give exact sequences for tightening. BE SURE TO DO IT IN STAGES !! If you take the bolts all the way up or tighten straight back from one end, you've almost certainly guaranteed yourself a disaster.

Regards, Dave Corbin

Buick Club guy, and engine engineer professionally !!