SippiSpeedhawk

iTrader: (21)

Hello all. I have a decision to make. I recently purchased a set of 243s with the sodium filled exhaust valves to be used in my 240sx build. However, I have changed direction in that I now want to add some boost. I'm planning on getting some 317s but was wondering if it would be worth it to swap the 243 valves over to the 317s? Just wondering if there is a noticeable real-world gain going from stainless to sodium filled valves because I'm sure it would be much easier to sell the 243s with the valves still in them.

Please hit me with your thoughts, suggestions, or opinions!

itsslow98

iTrader: (18)

I dont think it would be worth it. The sodium filled valves are engineered to work better in high revving cars.

SippiSpeedhawk

iTrader: (21)

That's what I was thinking. I figured it might be useful in a forced induction scenario for pulling a little heat out of the combustion chamber though. Any other opinions?

SippiSpeedhawk

iTrader: (21)

No other opinions?

180ls1

iTrader: (4)

what cam and valvetrain are you running? How much boost?

It will take stress off your valvetrain and if you already have them i would put them to use. Unless money is an issue and you need to recoup that extra money.

O2Form

Sodium valves are good for transfering heat away from the valve in racing conditions. Otherwise there is no difference in performance.

SippiSpeedhawk

iTrader: (21)

Ls6 cam, 918 springs, ls7 lifters. Using a mp t70, will only be going to 8lbs.

z28241

iTrader: (13)

^ Not quite correct, They are also lighter, weight plays key role in valvetrain dynamics, therefor becomes a force that resists changing in direction, especially at higher rpm, so yes it can affect performance..Sited by a read from Chevy LS1/LS6 performance by Chris Endres

SippiSpeedhawk

iTrader: (21)

I knew they were lighter and would therefore necessarily affect performance, but I wanted to know if it would cause noticeable gains. The better heat transfer could reduce reduce the risk of detonation, but I'm not sure if it would matter since it's only 8lbs. Then again, I am running the stock bottom end.

baalic

iTrader: (8)

I think it's more an issue of reliability rather the gains..

SippiSpeedhawk

iTrader: (21)

So the sodium filled valves are more reliable?

disc0monkey

iTrader: (10)

I think he means reliability against detonation

Duffster

iTrader: (103)

hasn't there been enough 'sodium filled valves' lately? the weight of the valves is irrelevant if you think about it. the spring pressure is more an influence on your engine acceleration...

180ls1

iTrader: (4)

That is a pretty mild cam and not much boost, so there will not be a whole lot of stress on the engine and valvetrain. I really dont think you will have stability issues with the valves so either will work just fine.

O2Form

:d:d..........Sodium valves transfer the heat away from the face of the valve so you can run hard without burning a valve. They have been around a very long time, salt is a great heat soak. It used in industry alot to move transfer heat. Thats the only advantage if you run hard it saves the valves. Weight difference in the valve train does make a difference in performance BUT the soduim valves are so close to regular valves its not worth the expense. NOW a set of trick light weight retainers! oh yeah that you will feel.

disc0monkey

iTrader: (10)

Idk I thought there was a big difference in ls1 and ls6 valve maybe only in the intake valve