N42 Head on a F54 Block

[texasz]

What needs to be done to make this setup work? I have read that the head needs larger valves. I'm trying to get an idea just what's involved here. Any machine work? Can the head letterally be taken off the original engine and bolted to the F54 block with no other work needed (provided there's nothing wrong with it)?

Reason I'm asking is that I was going to go with a P90 head but have discovered that to make it worth doing there is some machine work needed (shaving the head) and from what I can tell you can just bolt the N42 on and have the same compression as the worked over P90. If the N42 is truely that much easier of a swap for the same gains I will change directions and seek out a good N42 head.

EDIT:

The block has flat-top pistons.

[Ed]

It sounds like you already did your homework. The N42 already has large valves and is a direct bolt on. If you are going to look for a head take your time and find one in good condition. I'm having a hard time finding specs to rebuild mine and it's been at the machine shop for a couple of months now because I have to wait for parts that are on back-order. If I remember correctly the N42 head with the flat top pistons in the F54 will give you 10:1 compression.

[2ManyZs]

The only thing you would need to do is to check the valve seats and/or replace them with hardened steel seats as the N42 had bronze seats that are too soft.

Other than that, it is a good head for the combo you are planning if you use flat top pistons.

[TKR514]

and premium fuel, all the time...