8mm Stems and Keepers

[frnkeore]

I'm wanting to replace my 11/32 stems, in my SBF (306) with 8mm's. My springs are 1.55 with 1.48 dia retainers.

The 8mm keepers, seem to fit the taper on the 1.48 retainers but, the stem sits to low, for my comfort. Can I use -.050 keepers with these 11/32 retainers and if so, where can I get them? The largest 8mm retainers I'm finding are 1.32 diameter, for 8mm stems.

[Walter R. Malik]

I'm wanting to replace my 11/32 stems, in my SBF (306) with 8mm's. My springs are 1.55 with 1.48 dia retainers.

The 8mm keepers, seem to fit the taper on the 1.48 retainers but, the stem sits to low, for my comfort. Can I use -.050 keepers with these 11/32 retainers and if so, where can I get them? The largest 8mm retainers I'm finding are 1.32 diameter, for 8mm stems.

Some people are using a 5/16" retainer.

[Racing68]

Switch to a ten degree retainer and keeper.

[Mummert]

PEP had a retainer for LS that took 1.440 diameter. They were tough to track down.

[swampbuggy]

I bet Manley will make you exactly what you want, if you can not find it. Mark H.

[frnkeore]

I spent quite a while today, looking for -.050 keepers. I did find 2, Manley @ 6.70 a pair and Pac @ 4.13.

Geoff, who is PEP? Is that what you used on your 289 EMC?

[My427stang]

Frank, I have used this guy for some lower budget stuff, generally OK and always measures well, but almost certainly Chinese made

He does however have a .030, .060, etc. https://www.alexsparts.com/categories/V ... EEPERS%29/

Can't say I'd use say I "recommend it" but I have used it

[frnkeore]

Thank you Ross. I looked at that site yesterday and just looked again but, I couldn't find Bead Locks in + - sizes. Are you talking about 5/16 keepers or did I over look something?

[ProPower engines]

What about Straub tech. I spoke to Chris a while back regarding valve locks in particular bead locks with a +/-option of .050.
He indicated they were available but I was talking to him regarding a bulk order not a single set for one engine build.
These were a machined lock not stamped as well making the cost per 100 very attractive compared to the common offerings from the cam or valve spring guys.

He may be worth a call to check availability on you needs.

Hope that helps in your quest

Dave

[Krooser]

I spent quite a while today, looking for -.050 keepers. I did find 2, Manley @ 6.70 a pair and Pac @ 4.13.

Geoff, who is PEP? Is that what you used on your 289 EMC?

precisionengineparts.com

[frnkeore]

Thank you, Dave.

It's to late now but, I'll call them tomorrow.

[ProPower engines]

Thank you, Dave.

It's to late now but, I'll call them tomorrow.

May have to wait till next week as its a long weekend for easter. At least up here it is anyway

[Walter R. Malik]

I'm wanting to replace my 11/32 stems, in my SBF (306) with 8mm's. My springs are 1.55 with 1.48 dia retainers.

The 8mm keepers, seem to fit the taper on the 1.48 retainers but, the stem sits to low, for my comfort. Can I use -.050 keepers with these 11/32 retainers and if so, where can I get them? The largest 8mm retainers I'm finding are 1.32 diameter, for 8mm stems.

Call Debbie at "Precision Products Performance Center" in North Carolina.
They have almost anything valve train related ... if they don't, they will make it.

[My427stang]

Thank you Ross. I looked at that site yesterday and just looked again but, I couldn't find Bead Locks in + - sizes. Are you talking about 5/16 keepers or did I over look something?

Yes I was referring to the 5/16