Sometimes improved metallurgy and lighter weight components can permit some leeway as in the case of the ls3 where hollow stem valves enable that engine to operate up to 6600 rpm because the lighter valves offer less resistance to the rods and rockers but generally speaking ohc will always outperform ohv in engine speed which is critical for top end tuning and maximizing horsepower. Ohv vs ohc engine user manual media publishing ebook epub kindle pdf view id 729372cc6 aug 25 2020 by frederic dard actually describe the cylinder head layout of a piston engine ohc engines are better performing engines and modern ohcs are just as reliable but theyre slightly complicated for our jahil mechanics in fact on. Flathead engines also known as l head engines or l block engines are the most simplistic type of small engine that youll find in power equipment they are often smaller than ohc or ohv engines and less sensitive to low octane fuel while they get the job done they are generally considered to be of a lesser quality than ohc or ohv designs. Differences between ohv and ohc engines ohv and ohc engines sometimes referred to as pushrod and modular engines respectively have several critical differences that give each unique pros and cons understanding the shortcomings and advantages of each can help you understand your own engine or help you decide which engine is right for your next project car