Valve train uprgrades

[RobE30]

My 325is is off the road for the winter and while its down, I'd like to do some upgrades to the valve train. I'm currently running a Schrick 284/272 on a stock valve train w/ about 190k on it. Ive had the cam in for about 5-6 years and put about 15k on this setup w/out issue. My friends have talked me into doing some track time next summer and I worry about valve float and/or putting a valve into a piston. Any input for a strong durable valve train? The car will primarily be used for road w/ a few track days and or "spirited drives". I'm also planning a chip upgrade to the stock 173 ecu or a MAF conversion. Either way, the car will be seeing extended runs into higher rpm ranges.

[jlevie]

Pull the head and have it rebuilt. Things that need attention that aren't always addressed are the guides and springs. The springs can be tested and any soft ones need be replaced. I always polish the rockers in their vulnerable area around the eccentric to remove stress risers. My guess is that at that mileage all of the exhaust valves should be replaced. After grinding they may well be too thin and likely to burn.

[nando]

the schrick 284/272 works great with factory parts, including stock valve springs. I'd just refresh everything with new BMW parts. the only upgrade I'd consider being worth the money would be HD rockers from ireland engineering.

I have nothing but new, stock parts and my redline with the 284/272 is set to 7500. I don't tag it that often but I don't worry about it either. the valves do not float (I'd have broken a rocker by now). it sounds angry after ~7000. :p

[RobE30]

Just the two guys that I wanted to hear from. Thanks!

The head was gone over when the cam went in due to my stupidity in letting the timing belt go beyond its time limit. I know a few valves were replaced and a guide or two.

I've had this car for almost 11 years, longer than my wife and its time to put some $ and time into it. First valve train and then a new driveshaft. Paint will come eventually