Inliners International Forums General Discussion Engines 1950 Head Bolt Torque 235 engine

I have read how in 1953 Chevy added three extra head bolts to prevent coolant leaks between the block and the head gasket on the 235 engines. They also upped the torque spec from 75-80 foot pounds to 90-95 foot pounds. I am putting the head back on my 1950 235 engine, do you think that I can use this higher bolt torque without causing myself any problems?

I saw in California Bill's book that he recommends torquing the head bolts to 50 ft lbs initially, and then increasing by 10 ft lbs until reaching 90 ft lbs on the 15 bolt engines. I know the 18 bolt engines use 1/2" head bolts, and this is consistent with using 90 ft lbs of torque, if the 15 bolt engine also use 1/2" head bolts, I think you'll be safe, but double check the thread size before going the additional amount.