Cylinder haeds

[tscott9330]

I am rebuilding a 1978 chevy 350 and i want to run an efi system. i was wondering if i should use the stock heads or get a set of aftermarket ones. I know aftermarket is always better but i am on abudget. Is it really worth the expense to get new haeds.

Perhaps there is a lower cost set that gives good bang for the buck. If anyone uses efi now i would like to talk to find out any of the little details haven't thought of.

Tom Scott

 

[69MyWay]

Tom,

I would suggest you seriously consider new aftermarket heads. By the time you get your stockers up to speed, you will have spent half the money for a new set and they will never flow as well as the aftermarket. Plus, you can save some weight and go aluminum.

My and my local buddies have been running the Edelbrock RPM aluminum heads on all our go fast STREET cars. I even slapped a set on my big block with EFI in the 69.

Remember, there is the basic cost of the head, plus more expensive gaskets, plus high quality hardened push rods, plus new head bolts, plus as a extra bonus, go for a set of roller rockers. So, a $900 set will run you $1,500 when you are done, vs. $500 to custom work your stockers with new parts, plus another $250 on your stockers to get roller rockers. So, maybe it is double the cost, but well worth it.

Or, you could search for a set of stock L98 1986 1/2 to 1991 Vette aluminum heads. If you get a good set of those used for $250 or so, and throw another $250 in them you are off and running.

 

[Twin_Turbo]

Your 78 probably has the 462624 heads, thin lightweight csting 76cc smog heads - open chamber design. They do not spell performance in any way. If you can, upgrade to aftermarket.

If you get some L98 heads (a good idea if you're aiming at power levels below 350 or so Hp, you will need to work on them to get the higher levels) get some later D-port ones with screw in studs and guideplates. They have a more modern combustion chamber, easily recognised by the square spark plug pad.

It's sometimes difficult to spot D-ports because of the soot and the header shape.
These ARE d-ports, look closely at the exhaust ports.

Also remember, these heads are center bolt, so you'd need new valve covers or you need to weld in some blobs and drill & tap them for perimeter bolts.

Marck

 

[1978L48jafo]

Tom I am also in the middle of a rebuild on a 78. My heads are the same casting numbers as yours and the book I picked up to guide me through the process said not to bother with having them rebuilt. (do a search on my name if you want the history)

I went with http://www.carshopinc.com These HIPO heads are completed reworked small chamber heads, (58cc) with shipping are around 400.00 They do however jump your compression up to around 10:1.
good luck
John