Firstly, cylinder heads, are located, on the top of the engine block.

Consequently, they are the first line of defense, to completing the seal, of the combustion chamber.

So, today, most engines are, of an overhead camshaft design and come in various types.

Cylinder heads, serve as a housing for components such as, camshafts, intake and exhaust valves, springs, lifters and much more.

Furthermore, putting the camshaft above the valves, gives engine designers more flexibility, in where the valves can be placed.

What Are Cylinder Heads Made Of

So, most (OEM) heads are made out of cast iron. Consequently, a head made of cast iron, is more durable and less expensive. However, cast-iron is heavy and provides, a lesser efficiency in dissipating heat. For this reason, some manufacturers prefer, using heads made of aluminum. But, are also prone to, head gasket leaks. These heads are much lighter, than cast-iron cylinder heads. Performance cars and race cars, commonly have aluminum cylinder heads.


Choose Your Cylinder Heads Help Topic Below

Valve Job – Why Would You Need One – Causes – What To Expect

Automotive Engine Valves – Function – Failure – And, Testing

Engine Oil Consumption, Is On The Rise, Where It Go’s And Why

Valve Springs Can Cause, Floating Valves And Pumped Up Lifters

Valve Stem Seal Failure – Follow The Symptoms And Conditions

White Stuff, Under My Oil Filler Cap – What Is It ? Is It Bad ?


Cylinder Head Cracking – Overheating Is The Most Common Cause

Cylinder Head Resurfacing – All About Getting The Correct Surface Finish

GM 3100 – 3400 Engine – Issues With Head, Manifold Leaks, Rocker Bolts

Valve Seats – Installing And Grinding Valve Seats – Learn The Basics

Sticking Valves From Carbon Deposits – What Should You Do

Valve Guide Wear – Can Cause Other Major Damage, Besides Burning Oil

Valve Lash – Getting All The Facts For Setting And Adjustment

Sticking Valves From Carbon Deposits – What Should You Do

Valve Train Noise – Where Is It Coming From ? – Is It Bad ?

Hydraulic Valve Lifter – Takes Up Clearance Within The Valve Train

Valve Stem Seal – Controls Valve Lubrication As Well As Oil Consumption

Automotive Engine Valves – Function – How They Can Fail – Testing

Valve Stem Seals – Failure Symptoms Under Different Conditions

Valve Springs – Function – Failure Symptoms – Causing Possible Damage

Automotive Valve Lifters – Hydraulic And Mechanical – What Is The Difference

Rocker Arms Dislodging – Along With Valve Seats Falling Out

Interference Or Non Interference Engine – What Is The Real Difference

Head Bolts – Inspect And Never Reuse Torque To Yield (TTY) Head Bolts

Torque Specification – Torque To Yield (TTY) – Torque Plus Angle – FAQ

Torque To Yield Bolts – (TTY) – What Exactly Are They

Carbon Deposits – Description – Causes – Effect – Prevention – Removal

Emission Thermactor Plugs – Needed For Small Block Ford Cylinder Heads


Thank You !