WD vs WD45

[tractorkrum]

Probably been talked about many times here but, I need a quick answer, so I am going to ask anyway. Are the cylinder heads interchangeable?

 

[gregm]

I am pretty sure the answer is yes, but the wd45 head will most likely be taller, the push rods would have to be changed as well. Hopefully Dr allis will verify this.

 

[Aaron SEIA]

Yes but... you need the bolts for the taller head, the rocker stands, and the valve cover. Push rods are the same.
AaronSEIA

 

[DrAllis]

The short height cylinder head was used on all WC's, all WF's and up til the last year or so of the WD tractors, starting in 1952. At a certain engine s/n they went to the tall height head, which required using all the parts that go with it. Whatever is on an engine now after 70 years is anybody's guess. YES, the head will interchange, but all the other changed parts have to be used too. The taller head was for better cooling, which then allowed the engine HP to evolve from 35 HP in a WD to 45 HP in a WD45 to 55 HP in a D-17.