Lonsdale, Adelaide
LPG cylinder head overhauls
Lonsdale Engine Worx overhauls cylinder heads to suit LPG at our workshop in Lonsdale, in Adelaide's southern suburbs. Cylinder heads have been our work since 1994, when the business started as Lonsdale Cylinder Head Services.
The process
What’s involved.
If your car runs on gas, or is being converted, the head is the part of the engine that needs the most attention.
- Step 01
Why LPG is hard on heads
Petrol leaves a small amount of lubrication at the valves and seats as it passes through. LPG enters the engine as a dry gas, so there is less of that cushioning.
- Step 02
Heat and seat wear
Together with high exhaust valve temperatures, this is widely recognised as a cause of valve seat wear, sometimes called valve seat recession, in engines not designed for gas.
- Step 03
Inspect
The head is cleaned, tested and inspected so we can see the condition of the valves, seats and guides.
- Step 04
Overhaul to suit LPG
The head is overhauled so the valves and seats cope with running on LPG, along with any other head work it needs.
What we do
Done in house.
Every job is different, so we quote after inspecting the part. Call (08) 8382 3388 or send photos through the quote form.
- Overhauling to suit LPGSetting up the head so the valves and seats cope with running on LPG.
- Valve grindsRe-cutting valves and seats so each valve seals properly again, restoring compression.
- Bronze guidesReplacing worn valve guides with bronze guides to keep each valve running true.
- Head facing (alloy and cast iron)Machining the gasket face flat so the head gasket can seal.
- Pressure testing (alloy heads)Pressurising the water passages to find leaks and cracks you cannot see.
- Crack testing (cast iron)Checking cast iron heads for cracks before any money is spent on machining.
Do you overhaul cylinder heads to suit LPG?
Yes. Overhauling heads to suit LPG is one of the cylinder head services we do in house at Lonsdale.
Why does LPG wear valve seats?
LPG is a dry fuel, so the valves and seats get less lubrication than they do on petrol. Combined with heat, this is a known cause of valve seat wear.
Can I bring in just the head?
Yes. Use the quote form and choose 'Just the part', or call (08) 8382 3388.
How much does an LPG head overhaul cost?
Every job is different, so we quote after inspecting the part. Call (08) 8382 3388 or send photos through the quote form.
More services
More services.
-
01
Engine reconditioning
Block, head, crank, rods and pistons, machined in house and brought back to a healthy, reliable engine.
Read more -
02
Cylinder head reconditioning
Valve grinds, facing, pressure and crack testing, guides, welding, straightening and thread repairs.
Read more -
03
Engine block machining
Boring, power honing, block facing, line boring, sleeves, testing and acid cleaning.
Read more -
04
Crankshaft grinding
Crankshaft grinding and crack testing, with con rod pin fitting and fitting pistons.
Read more -
05
Engine builds and installations
Engines built to suit and fitted, including our Holden 355 Stroker engines.
Read more
Get in touch
Ready for a quote?
Tell us about the car and the engine, and add a few photos if you can. We will come back to you with honest advice and a quote.