Guideplate Guidance
Adjustable Big-Block Pushrod Guideplates
According to Dart, standard one-piece pushrod guideplates often cause misalignment of the rocker arms and valve-stem tips on high-performance big-block heads, since the intake and exhaust valves are tilted on two axes. So instead of using a single stamping, Dart's patent-pending two-piece guideplates are joined by a socket head bolt. Loosening the bolt and the rocker-arm studs allows each rocker arm to be independently centered over its respective valve stem. Tightening the fastener that joins the two halves of the guideplate locks the adjustment in place. Dart's Adjustable Pushrod Guideplates are sold in sets of four.
Price: $25 / set
Dart Machinery
Troy, MI
248.362.1188
dartheads.com
Chemically Enhanced
Engine Break-In Oil Additive
Perhaps you've heard of hydraulic flat-tappet cams failing because today's oils lack some vital ingredients that aid in the break-in process. With its Engine Break-In Oil Additive, Comp Cams "brings back the good stuff," delivering "a specially engineered blend of extreme-pressure break-in additives." This concoction provides needed protection during the break-in process for all engine components, including the camshaft and lifters. According to Comp, it also extends the durability of internal engine components with continued usage, especially protecting against premature cam, lifter, and valvetrain failure. Comp Cams Engine Break-In Oil Additive is compatible with any petroleum, synthetic, or blended motor oil.
Price: $8.50
Comp Cams
Memphis, TN
800.999.0853
compcams.com
Scavenging Hunt
Chevy II Performance Exhaust System
Incorporating an X-pipe into an exhaust system can provide several benefits, such as balancing out gas pulses and improving scavenging. According to Pypes Performance Exhaust, its Chevy II setup benefits '62-67 Novas to the tune of 30-50 extra horsepower. These systems include a mandrel-bent, 2.5-inch adjustable X-pipe, a choice of three different Pypes performance mufflers, 2.5-inch side-exit tailpipes, hangers, and mounting hardware. Mandrel-bent manifold downpipes are also available for owners who don't want to use headers. The system comes in 409 stainless steel as well as a polished 304 stainless version.
Price: $375 / $599
Pypes Performance Exhaust
Hatfield, PA
800.421.3890
pypesexhaust.com