Head Swap

[tscott9330]

Will Vortec Heads work on my 78 350? If not what heads will flow metter and still be within a tight budget?

 

[MaineShark]

Yup, they'll fit. You'll need to replace the intake manifold, though, since the Vortec heads require a different manifold than regular heads. Of course, if you're bothering to swap the heads, you probably want to replace the manifold with a better one, anyway. I'm pretty sure you can get Vortec heads for around $400 or so.

Joe

 

[Bob Chadwick]

Do a search here on Vortec heads before making your decisions. There are pros and cons. The topic was hot and heavy last Summer. As I recall, the heads needed some spring and valve work to get what most people wanted, which ended up driving the cost to a level that some of the better heads were costing. This post on Vortec Heads is one of the discussions.

 

[tscott9330]

Ok, If i get high porformance heads, then when i replace the intake maifold what kind of bolt patern do i get? Is it the same as the votec or stock 78 heads?

Tom

 

[rpounds]

As I recall, the manifolds that are made for the Vortec heads do not have a provision for an EGR. If you are in an area that requires smog inspection, you may have a problem if there is no EGR. Am I wrong here?

Ron

 

[MaineShark]

If you get Vortec heads, you need a Vortec-specific manifold. Other heads will use the standard manifold. Or, for more assurance, call whichever company you decide to buy the heads from, and ask which you need.

Joe

 

[sscam69]

Here is a price breakdown on the heads

You might want to look up some info on AFR heads as well. fc3 has a pair on his 383 and so does Brian (a.k.a Akray) on his 400c.i. Their excellent heads for the price.

Frank

 

[Ganey]

If you have L-48 more cam is strongly rec!!!