Like the title already stated, my car is a 1985 Camaro Z28 with an LB9. I never really took particular notice to this but I realized that my engine has center bolt valve covers. Now AFAIK, center bolts only came on 87+ engines correct? Is it possible to swap center bolt/ perimeter bolt valve covers at will on these heads? One other thing I noticed is that my engine and heads have been painted red. If I'm not mistaken, didn't the engine come from the factory painted blue?

Even if I do have different heads I know it's not making me go any faster, 15.5 @ 87 in the 1/4.

 

I'd say you have newer style heads.The valve covers are not swappable. Oh, they'll physically fit, but you'll have no way to bolt them down.

Unless you get some aftermarket heads, that have both style bolt holes.

OR, you can get adapters, to bolt older valve covers, to the newer heads.

 

I'll see if I can get the casting number off of them so I can check out what they really are. Is there any difference in the LB9 heads from '85 to '87+ besides the location of the valve cover bolts?

 

Also check the front pad of the block on the passenger side.The engine code(3 letters usually)build date and the sequential part of the VIN is stamped there(will match your car's VIN if original - that is if the block hasn't been decked).

 

Ive never heard of one of these engines being painted blue from the factory. I think they were either painted black or left with their natural finish. Anybody know for sure.

 

mine was rust color when i pulled it out

 

Gm painted them black.

 

well I do remember reading somewhere that pre 82 engines were painted orange, 82-92 engine were painted blue, and 93+ engine were painted black. but of course I may be mistaken. I'll see if I can find the casting numbers and engine code today. I'm doing an engine swap pretty soon so if I can't get these now I'll at least get them later.

 

1982 was the only year for thirdgens for the engine to be painted Chevy Blue. From 1983 on...they are GM Black. And 1986 was the year for the appearance of centerbolt valve covers, on the Corvette Convertible. 1987 for everything else