1608 head on 1800 block?

[chr535is]

I hear that placing 1 1608 head on an 1800 block is a great upgrade. Can anyone tell me if this is a direct bolt on or is it a cam swap?

[manoa matt]

Not a direct bolt on without some modification of the 1608 head. The 1800 and 2000 heads and blocks have a 9mm coolant passage at the front of the head. While the 1438 and 1608 heads and blocks have a 14mm coolant passage.

In order to install a 1608 head on a 1800 block you would need to weld up the coolant passage or you would have a major leak.

I think you got some mixed up information. The popular combination is the 1800 head on a 2 liter block, which is a direct bolt on and a slight compression increase.

[mdrburchette]

Or you may be thinking of the 1592 head, which is also of the 1800 and 2L family and should work. It's labeled as a 1600 so this might be confusing.

[chr535is]

Thanks guys, looks like I got mixed up info. I thought it was too good to be true. My 1608 block was improperly rebuilt and
thrust washer was damaged along with boring a groove in the bearing support area. Will bring it to a machinist on thursday . I will also be looking for another block, but maybe i'm just better off going to an 1800 complete engine.
Thanks again

[mdrburchette]

How close are you to Winston-Salem, NC? I have a 1608 or two.

[chr535is]

I live in NY, on Long Island. Been down that way once, I guess around 12hrs. I will keep you in mind.I still don't know if my block is repairable. If not, i'm thinking of going with an 1800. I have never driven a 1608 and i am told that it is too
"weak" for the car. Time and cost will tell.