Real learning experience

[aroostok]

In putting the engine for the B back together after having had a valve job done and head skimmed, I've come to the realization that this is a real learning experience (which I'm very glad for) which I probably couldn't have done without the help from a lot of great people here on the forum.
Two interesting things I found which are perplexing. One, I replaced the studs for the rocker pedestals, getting new ones from Moss. As it turns out, the recommended toque for the studs in the rocker pedestals is 25 ft. lb. but at about 18 ft. lbs. the studs begin to strip. I know others have experienced this. Does anybody know if the studs from Vicky Brit are better? I used studs from VB for the cylinder head and they took 50 ft. lbs. with no trouble.
Two, when I was cleaning the carbs, I noticed that the needles were very dark, almost as if they were burned. Is this is a sign of something, like maybe running WAY too lean?
Thanks again to everybody. This is the greatest place on the net.

 

[tony barnhill]

Lemme ask you a question about those studs: did you bottom them out in their holes before torqueing them?

 

[aroostok]

Yes I did. Finger tight as it was suggested I do.

 

[tony barnhill]

I always bottom mine out finger tight & then bac them up about half an inch...never had any torque problems that way.

 

[aroostok]

Thanks. I was able to get them to about 18 ft. lbs. Will this be a problem?

 

[tony barnhill]

Try disassembling things & backing the studs out a bit to see if you can then get to 25.