Got questions?

We’ve got the answers—the Summit Racing tech department tackles your automotive-related conundrums. This week, we add new valvetrain components to old “camel hump” cylinder heads.

R.B. Las Vegas, NV

Q: I recently acquired a set of Chevy “camel hump” small block heads. I am putting in screw-in studs so I can use Harland Sharp roller rocker arms. Other than fitting the studs, do I need to do any machine work to the heads to use the rockers? Do you recommend raised or flat pushrod guideplates?

I am also going to change the valves over to larger 2.02/1.60-inch valves. Should I port and polish the heads before I put the new valves in, or wait? What about swirl polishing the valves before I install them?

I also want to buy a Summit Engine Rebuild Kit to rebuild my 383 Chevy (350 block). The kit has 9.6:1 compression hypereutectic pistons, but I’m worried that they won’t have enough of a dish to accommodate my .502-inch lift cam. Will these pistons be OK?

A: You will have to have machine work done to install the guideplates. We recommend using flat guideplates (make sure you use hardened pushrods with them). Do any porting and polishing work when you put in the new valves. If you are using high quality stainless steel valves, you don’t have to polish them—just install ’em and go.

As for the pistons in the Summit rebuild kit, they have a 12.5cc dish and will not cause any clearance problems with your .502-inch lift cam.