High performance head assembly for an internal combustion engine

Abstract

A cylinder head assembly for an internal combustion engine. The cylinder head assembly has a deck surface for engaging an opposed deck surface on an engine block. A combustion chamber is recessed in the cylinder head assembly for each cylinder, and the combustion chambers each have first and second wedge portions. A first valve port penetrates the first wedge portion, and a valve seat is provided in the first valve port. The first valve seat is disposed at a first angle relative to the deck surface. A second valve port penetrates the second wedge portion, and a valve seat is provided in the second valve port. The second valve seat is disposed at a second angle relative to the mounting surface. The second angle is less than the first angle. Each valve seat has a valve element for controlling the ingress and egress of gas flowing to and from the chamber. The wedge portions permit a more erect valve orientation for the intake valve such that less scavenging of the fresh fuel/air charge will occur. The wedge portions also permit the exhaust valve and intake valve to moved to more advantageous locations relative to the combustion chamber. The relocation of the valves allows a more efficient placement of the spark plug, resulting in more even loading of the piston during the power stroke. The inlet passage which directs the fuel/air mixture to the combustion chamber has an independently unique configuration that improves atomization of the fuel/air mixture to achieve improved fuel economy and/or increased brake horsepower output.