Buick V8 Engine - Buick "Nailhead V8"

Buick "Nailhead V8"

Buick first generation of V8 lasted from 1953 through 1956. It was an OHV/pushrod engine like the then new Oldsmobile "Rocket V8" engine. This engine became known as the "Nailhead" for the unusual vertical position of its small-sized valves, which were derisively compared to nails since their head diameter is rather smaller than other comparable displacement engines of the same era. The Nailhead V8 family employed a camshaft with greater lift and duration to offset the smaller-sized valves and arguably restrictive intake- and exhaust-port areas. The small-diameter valves and intake runners made for engines with a lot of torque, with many exceeding one foot-pound per cubic inch, which was exceptional for the day.

NOTE: The Buick V-8 was originally called the "Nail Valve" by early hot rodders because the valves looked like nails since the stems were so long and the heads were small. At some point "Nail Valve" got replaced by "Nailhead."