Strange hole in S14 SR20 head and cam question

[240sx1234]

Updated: Found the answer regarding the hole and the cam but now I have a question regarding damage to the pistons. Let me know what you think



I bought an SR20 from a friend and am in the middle of tearing it down to make sure everything is good to go before I put it in my car. When I was taking the cams out I noticed this:





This is on the rear of the head on the exhaust side, right behind the last spot where the cam is (technical term?) Is that hole normal? It seems like it could be functional but I have no experience with SR20's and it didn't look like a perfect circle like I would assume the manufacturer would make.

Another question, is the cam supposed to be so close to the head here? In the picture the cam has already been loosened and isnt seated. It just seemed rather close, but again I have no idea. Just trying to get some response. Thanks!

[fliprayzin240sx]

There is supposed to be a hole there but yours look like it chipped and got bigger.



I dont understand what you're asking with the cams. If the chain tensioner is off, and the cam retainers are loose, the cams should lift off the head some since the valvesprings/rockers are pushing up on the cams.

[240sx1234]

Right, it just seems as if it sits too far forward. I guess the cam may have just slid forward and is rubbing against the head a little instead of coming straight up. Does that male sense?

[deliguojizhe]

the chain tensioner is off, and the cam retainers are loose, the cams should lift off the head some since the valvesprings/rockers are pushing up on the cams.

[TheRealSy90]

I think he's talking about the "thrust ring" at the front of the camshafts, it damn near rubs on the cylinder head yes that's normal lol.

[240sx1234]

The thrust ring is exactly what I was talking about, thank you so much. Another question: After removing the head, I was checking out the bottom end and was taking notice of the notches in the pistons, is this normal? And the valves, which are supposed to be new are also pictured

[TheRealSy90]

Definitely looks like some valve float happened and the valves hit the pistons. The pistons aren't really going to be a problem but I would have the head checked out because the valves are most likely bent.

[ka-t]

pull cams out and pour water into exhaust ports and intake ports and see if the valves leak water