My engine is missing this part:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Genuine-199...QAAOSwwmJZDNBb

It's the head alignment pin that goes onto one of the bolt holes to align the head respective of the block, PN B630-10-306.

My engine is missing this.

I'm running ARP head studs, which seems to do a somewhat decent job of lining things up, but the engine won't be PERFECTLY aligned. Can I get away with it, or should I buy the part? It's not so much a matter of cost, but more time.

 

Up to you.

How much is your time worth?

Wait a few days and spend $6
or save a few days and potentially have to re-do the job?


I'd just get a new dowel/locator.

Contact a local engine/head rebuilder and see what they have, they might have some in stock they'll sell you.

 

Wait a few days and spend $6 it is.

 

 

Never done it myself, but I remember someone saying they’ll slide around fairly easily under boost without them. Misaligns coolant and oil passages with all sorts of related complications.

 

YMMV but I forgot to install it once on my 99 engine and blew coolant after 15 minutes.
Vince

 

Yes, you need it if you want the head gasket to stay put. I almost made the same mistake.

 

Another vote for the pin to avoid head gasket walk. I know.

 

Wow I had no idea this was a thing. I figured once the head was torqued down, that sucker ain't movin!

 

Me too! Now I know.