design evolution · FF-0463

What limits did the Arkus-Duntov brothers face designing the ARDUN heads, and were the test heads modified?

Designing a hemi from scratch, you would also lay out the block and the head bolts. The brothers had to adapt their heads to a block that already existed, which limited where the push rods could go and how big the ports could be. Steve says better flowing hemi heads exist, but what they achieved with those obstacles amazes him. The Don Ferguson reproduction heads on this engine are stock as supplied: no porting, same valves and valve springs.

Expert

Steve Coppock

Evidence

expert attributed

Component

ARDUN head design

Applicable scope

Steve Coppock's supercharged ARDUN overhead valve Flathead, 8BA block, about 289 cubic inches, with a Weiand 177 on the engine dyno at Klein Engines