Do machinists cut in iron head's material for larger valves? Or do they install new seats ("rings")? I know that seats are induction hardened in newer heads, but is this hardened area deep enough for cutting, for example, Vortec's intake seat for 2.02" valve?

Im pretty sure they cut the old ones out and put new ones in. I dont know if the seats are pressed in or what but when working at the engine shop I remember alot of heads getting the seats cut out.

You mean like this?



Those are simply cut into the iron. There are no pressed-in seat inserts. If you're really concerned, you can flame- or induction harden the seats to crystalize the surface after machining, but it really isn't necessary. A good machinist should be able to tell by chip flow and cutter chatter whether the surface hardening has been cut through completely. Usually, opening for 2.02/1.60 valves isn't a problem in later iron heads. Early heads may not have had hardened seats at all.

Thank you

Vader: my curiosity led me to Budge Industries website, can't see any of your cars there; do you have any secret pics or secret cars?

Mike

Of course you cannot see any of the cars - they're all under covers.