I'm new on this message board, but have been a inliner for several years. I have a 261 in my '51 Chevy pickup. Other than headers, a Holley 94 carb, and a Pertronix conversion it's stock.

My question is what are the valves supposed to set at. I've read everything from 8/13 to 13/18.... I'm concerned about having them adjusted too tight.

Thanks for any advise....

Rich

Here's the tried and true version., http://www.stovebolt.com/techtips/valveadjustment.htm

Try this page too. It's a factory service manual

http://www.canadianmilitarypattern.com/1960%20235-261%20Engine%20Manual.htm

Thanks fellas... That's the information I was looking for!

Rich

Those specs are for the 261 in a 2 ton dump truck getting heavy use when hauling loads.
The exhaust valves have more lash so they stay cool.

I have .008 Intake and .014 Exhaust on my 261 with a high lift RV cam in my coupe.
The cam specs say .012 for the exhaust is OK.

For severe service the exhaust valves have more clearance so that they don't close up when they reach full temperature.
Maximum cooling is from longest possible seat time.

Amen,transferring that valve heat into the cooler head.

I always set mine with engine running--never had the special tool, so it took three hands and always beat up a coupla feeler gages (lota wear on rocker arm pads helped bend the gages too).

Never thought in those days to take the rockers off and dress them lightly on a stone--that would have helped.