Advantages to Titanium vs Stainless??

Head diameter, stem diameter, valve length, ramp speed and RPM are just a few of the factors in deciding on valve material. I'm not going to say I am smarter than David Reher (I'm not) but he and I agree that Ti is the only consideration for most ANY engine of today's geometry. It's just not worth messing with steel. Today, bracket engines are using lobes that are faster then Pro Stock of only 10 years ago. You can order lobes today that are so close to PS that it is unthinkable. Yet, guys continue to try and cut corners on valves.

I wouldn't consider steel.

BTW, it's one of the few things I wholeheartedly agree with DR. Not that he cares.................

What kind of lifespan does a ti valve and beryllium seat have?

Kevin

I stopped using BC seats back in about 2005. I started using Nickel Boron (IIRC). They machine much easier. And last just as long. How long they last is hard to determine. Too many unknown factors. BUT...Ti will not last as long using CI or ANY brand of hard seat out there.

what about the wear on the valve face, and this hard coating they are putting on them?

You're going to be right on border with a Stainless intake valve that is 2.300" in diameter and 11/32. I would go Ti if you are going to spin it over 7000.

Thanks again everyone for your info... I spoke with the engine builder again yesterday.. Straight up told him I wanted to break the bank and get the titanium valves...

He flat out rejected that idea and used that polite "In all due respect" phrase... which basically means he refuses to spend the extra money and once again said I should save the money or upgrade to better heads and then get the exotic valves..

I guess that means he doesnt like B1 Original heads... but then he's a high horsepower, heads up racer...

Spending to much time hanging around Comp guys IN some instances when a porter gets carried away better to upgrade than continue to throw money at parts that wont make the power you want.

He does not need a new builder. He has a brutally honest one now. I am pretty sure he would rather see Don buy a new set of heads all together rather than throw more money at these. But the fact is the heads he has simply wont get where he wants to be. Sometimes the truth hurts. This is one of those times when it will just be throwing good money after bad. Finding an honest engine builder is always what's best. Not one that will do whatever you ask, just because you say, especially if it means throwing your hard earned money away. Trust me he is in very capable hands.

I would have like to have seen titanium valves but I would have also like to have seen someone else do the port work. It was done by a well known shop, but in the quest for big flow numbers I do not believe the design of the port is the best way. It took a huge cross section to achieve the numbers, not the best way. I feel somewhat responsible as I was asked about the shop used. I can tell you that I will not do it again. I think what Don needs now is a RELIABLE piece that stays together. The overall package will work well and last. May not make 950hp but it will stay together. IMO at this point that is what is important.