Head Removal

[Lenny Bruce]

Good morning everyone! Quick question…. In Les Andrews Red Book he says by taking a few steps then starting the engine it will loosen the Head. He never states whether or not to loosen the distributor lock nut. Am I wrong in thinking even the slightest movement of the head would put unwanted pressure on the distributor while it’s locked into place? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[LeonardS]

I would remove the distributor first. You don’t need the car to start, you just need the engine to turn over with the starter. The cylinder pressure should pop the head loose.

[Lenny Bruce]

That makes more sense to me as well thank you. Sometimes it’s good to hear it from others.
I didn’t feel comfortable having the car try and start as well. Thanks

[WHN]

Remove the distributor.

Turn engine over using starter. Head should pop up.

Enjoy.

[1crosscut]

It wouldn’t put any strain on the distributor because it would move up with the head.

[Lenny Bruce]

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Yes but doesn’t the lock nut go into the side of the block to hold it into place?

[Bob C]

Originally Posted by Lenny Bruce

Yes but doesn’t the lock nut go into the side of the block to hold it into place?

No the set screw is in the head.

[Steves46]

Regarding your distributor, since I recently had to replace a head gasket I wanted to share this; once you back out the nut and in the event your distributor is stubborn, completely remove the locknut and spray some PB Blaster in the opening and let it soak a day or 2. It will loosen-up.

[Lenny Bruce]

Good to know thank you!

[31a]

Have always left the distributor in and hooked up and not had any problems good

[1crosscut]

The plug in the side of the block (down lower) is removed to allow a special set screw to be inserted to hold the oil pump in place when the pan is removed.

[Lenny Bruce]

Yes I confused the two. I’m trying to get most of my plans in order haven’t been under the hood most of the winter. Can’t wait until the weather breaks and we can motor on!!!! Thanks guys!!!

[Smokedtires]

Originally Posted by Lenny Bruce

Yes I confused the two. I’m trying to get most of my plans in order haven’t been under the hood most of the winter. Can’t wait until the weather breaks and we can motor on!!!! Thanks guys!!!

Let us know how it goes. I too am eager to install my new Snyder head once the temperature starts getting warmer.

[Randall]

Hope it comes off easier than this one!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MtgvnT6ab0U&t=28s

[abachman3]

I prefer to use one of the head pullers that the vendors sell. They really make easy work of the removal. If you do not have one, see if you can borrow one from a local club member.