1952 Buick Valve Body, Exhaust Manifold

1952 Roadmaster 320 Engine

Needs VB391 as Well

1937-1951 Buick Valve Body to Intake Manifold Block-off Plate 

Fits All 320 Engines - Century, Roadmaster, Limited

Solid Copper

Originally, Buick incorporated a “butterfly” or “flapper” in its exhaust manifold valve bodies. Its purpose was to quickly heat the fuel mixture in the motor, particularly in cold weather. The butterfly valve is normally closed when the engine is cold. In its closed position, exhaust gas would be directed into the intake manifold, heating the fuel mixture and the surrounding area. As the engine and valve body warms, a heat sensitive spring on the side of the valve body would allow the butterfly to open, directing exhaust gas into the exhaust pipe and exiting the vehicle. The valve required regular maintenance as it often seized. If it happened to seize in the closed position, the exhaust gas would continue to heat the fuel mixture and the intake manifold, often causing poor performance, vapor lock and engine damage. Many a Buick restorer remembers having had to “hammer” the valve back and forth to get it to temporarily function. Because our cars are now used primarily for warm weather use and the need for quicker “warm ups” is not necessary, we eliminated the butterfly on the valve bodies we sell. We also eliminated the need for continual maintenance, poor performance and the possibility of engine damage due to a stuck valve. Following this logic, we have produced this copper block-off plate. It closes the path of exhaust gases into the intake manifold and diverts exhaust gases directly out the exhaust pipe. The end result is a cooler intake manifold chamber where air/fuel mixtures prepare to burn. This can be especially useful where highly volatile ethanol-blended fuels are used and/or vapor lock occurs.

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A Quality Reproduction By CARS We Carry a Comprehensive Line of Buick Parts from 1935-1987

Serving the Buick Hobby Since 1973

1936-1951 Series 60, 70, 80, 90 320 Engines

1986-1987 Turbo Regal, Grand National, GNX

1939-1952 All Special & Super except Dual Carbs

1934-1952 Special & Super

1953 Special