Keeping it original
During my restoration I will get to the engine rebuild. I would like to keep things as close to factory as possible. The L79 had 11:1 CR. I am wondering based on all I have read, can I keep this 11:1 CR and run on 93 oct.? It is still not clear by the articles and comments I have read. Some say yes and some say no. I am confused. This same frame of mind seems to be the same with a couple of engine builder I have talked with. I have been told to install Aluminum heads and I should be able to keep the 11:1 CR. Please give me your input.





The cam is the big deciding factor really. It's all about controlling cylinder pressure in the RPM range you will run it. Are you married to the original cam?
The real advantage of the aluminum heads will be as much about chamber design as material. Better chambers allow more compression.
Can the cooling system keep it under 180*?
Tuning distributor timing curve will also be critical...but yes it can be done. Just dpends on what you really want to do with it.
JIM





