65GS.com - Buick Gran Sport Enthusiasts!

Drivetrain => The Nailhead => Topic started by: cwmcobra on May 27, 2016, 01:25:45 PM

Title: Nailhead assembly manual
Post by: cwmcobra on May 27, 2016, 01:25:45 PM

Probably sounds like a strange subject, but I've started assembly of my engine and find the factory service manual to be sorely lacking in details.  For example, I'm ready to install the timing cover and there is not a word about procedure in the GS engine manual.  I expect that some of the timing cover bolts go through coolant passages and that some of the bolts need a thread sealer.  But no info that I can find.  Is there an independently published manual available that contains that sort of detail?  When I built the engine for my Cobra I bought a book that was great for detailed assembly.  Can there be one out there for the Nailhead as well?

 :cheers2:

Chuck

Title: Re: Nailhead assembly manual
Post by: jmos4 on May 27, 2016, 01:44:28 PM

Chuck,

The GS manual doesn't get into as much detail as the one for the fullsize cars may want to look at one of those and see if it gets into details regarding the timming cover and water pump that you're after.  The GS one always seemed to be a after thought as not a ton of details.

Regards,

Title: Re: Nailhead assembly manual
Post by: dsags on May 27, 2016, 01:44:55 PM

Chuck,

Might try Russ Martin at nailheadbuick.com. Believe he has written a couple of books on the subject.

For specific questions there are members of this forum that can help.

Title: Re: Nailhead assembly manual
Post by: Brian on May 27, 2016, 02:23:07 PM

Chuck,
  Everything you need to know about rebuilding the nailhead engine is in the 65 full size chasis service manual.  Here is an example of one for sale on Ebay:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/1965-BUICK-LESABRE-RIVIERA-WILDCAT-ELECTRA-CHASSIS-SERVICE-SHOP-REPAIR-MANUAL-/301965456246?hash=item464e8b3376:g:6LkAAOSwB9xXOzaU&vxp=mtr (http://www.ebay.com/itm/1965-BUICK-LESABRE-RIVIERA-WILDCAT-ELECTRA-CHASSIS-SERVICE-SHOP-REPAIR-MANUAL-/301965456246?hash=item464e8b3376:g:6LkAAOSwB9xXOzaU&vxp=mtr)

The GS manual was only intended to be a supplement to cover items that were new and specific to the Skylark GS model when it was introduced mid-production year 1965. You have to have both the Special/Skylark and the LeSabre/Wildcat/Electra/Riveria chasis service manuals as well to have all the information you need for the whole car. 

Title: Re: Nailhead assembly manual
Post by: cwmcobra on May 27, 2016, 02:37:29 PM

Thanks Brian.  I've got the Skylark and GS manuals, but not the big car manual.  Guess it's time to take a break and get one on order.

Have a great weekend!

Chuck

Title: Re: Nailhead assembly manual
Post by: telriv on May 27, 2016, 07:58:13 PM

If I remember correctly there's only ONE that goes into water. That one will need some kind of sealer. You can test the holes easily enough with a skinny screwdriver. If it goes through near the top/side it's water. The lower bolts go into oil & need to be sealed also. The three middle head bolts also go into water & need some type of sealer. ALL other head bolt holes are BLIND. Make SURE you use the proper length head bolts in their proper locations.


Tom T.

Title: Re: Nailhead assembly manual
Post by: gearhead46 on May 29, 2016, 08:46:35 AM

I have an extra big car manual if you need one.  Send me a PM if you are interested.