New versus old valve springs

[bcatcmc]

Simpleton needs help! Early in my `40 era engine build I decided to ditch the 2 piece valve guides and modernise. I purchased a kit to do the upgrade. In my quest to track down a consistent miss, valve spring pressures are on the agenda.

From memory new springs should test out as 50 lb. @ 1.875" Approx. My dimension so far over 4 valves tested retainer to valve guide is around 2.10"giving me a spring pressure of sub 20 lb. I dug out some of my old 2 piece guide springs and at 2.10" are 48 lb ( even a pressure Gramps would be happy with. ). I have been comparing pre to post `49 blocks looking for factory diffrences but can't spot anything As i understand it the only reason for slight variations in dimensions ( retainer to guide ) would be how deep the valve seat were cut ( I can still see the valve heads so I didn`t go .20" deep )

Any suggestions , Purchase new set of old style springs. Shimming .200" plus sounds a bit dodgy ( Moral of story test before /as you instal.)

Also include tip for Newbies don`t type up a post before logging on if your a one finger typist, its painful when it disappears into the vortex