What does OHV engine mean?

[McRicardo]

OHV - Overhead Valve, Side Camshaft OHC - Overhead Valve, Overhead Camshaft DOHC - Overhead Valve, Dual Overhead Camshaft OHV. Below is an introduction about OHV: 1. Introduction: OHV is mostly used in American cars, especially high-power V-type engine cars. American cars prefer to use two valves per cylinder, but because it's a V-type engine, if overhead camshafts were used, there would definitely need to be two, one on each side. To use one camshaft to control the valves on both sides, two pushrods are connected to the camshaft. Since OHV also uses a single camshaft, most people also call it SOHC. 2. Function: The OHV engine controls valve opening through valve lifters, and this type of engine exhibits high torque output at low speeds in terms of power performance.

[VanAnna]

OHV engine stands for Over Head Valve, which means the engine valves are located at the top of the cylinder, but the camshaft is positioned below the cylinder block. This design was popular in older cars. When I was younger, I often drove American muscle cars from the 1960s, like the Ford Mustang, which featured a typical OHV engine. It has a simple structure and is easy to repair, making it convenient for DIY enthusiasts like me who enjoy working on cars. However, the downside is that the camshaft is far from the valves, requiring pushrods and rocker arms to connect them, which results in slower response at high RPMs and lower efficiency. Nowadays, most new cars use Overhead Camshaft (OHC) engines, which are more fuel-efficient and quieter. Still, OHV remains a classic, carrying the memories of an entire generation of automobiles.

[NovaLynn]

OHV engines refer to a valve system located above the cylinders, while the camshaft is positioned at the bottom of the engine. The motion is transmitted to the rocker arms via pushrods to open and close the valves. Having worked as a mechanic for many years, I've handled numerous OHV engines like Chevrolet's small-block. Their advantages include fewer components and lower manufacturing costs, along with strong low-end torque ideal for hauling. However, the pushrods are prone to bending at high speeds, and vibration and noise are quite noticeable. Compared to modern OHC designs, OHV structures are somewhat bulkier. During repairs, I must carefully inspect pushrod wear, as it can affect valve timing. Although durable, OHV engines are gradually being phased out and are now mostly found in heavy-duty vehicles.

[TaylorLynn]

The OHV engine, simply put, has valves located at the top and the camshaft positioned below. I've experienced this design with my family's old pickup truck: it delivers strong low-end torque, making it great for towing and climbing hills, but it responds sluggishly at high RPMs with higher fuel consumption. Compared to the overhead cam (OHC) design, OHV is more old-school, with less precise valve control, making it prone to overheating or wear. Nowadays, most new cars use OHC for greater efficiency and smoothness, leaving OHV as a nostalgic symbol suited for enthusiasts who appreciate raw mechanical simplicity.

[LondonRose]

OHV engines are commonly found in American trucks like the Dodge RAM. Based on my driving experience, they excel in low-end torque, making it easy to tow heavy loads, and provide quick acceleration in city driving. However, they suffer from poor fuel efficiency and high noise levels at highway speeds. The overhead valve (OHV) design means the camshaft is located in the engine block, with pushrods transmitting motion—simple and durable but less advanced. I find them a bit rough to drive. The modern trend has shifted to OHC engines for better fuel economy and quieter operation, leaving OHV engines mainly for practical applications like agricultural machinery where they still shine.