vortec heads

[bobfil]

Hi, I have a stock 72 with a 350 and would like to build it up a little , wondering if vortec heads with a mild cam would be good fit for added power? Oh the manifold I have on is an older edlebrock performer, 4 speed, 370's, with a mild cam, don't know lift but probably one step above stock ( already in engine ). I know of some issues with the heads, but If someone has this setup or knows about these heads or better heads than these heads I would appreciate the info , thanks Bob.

 

[Crimson Thunder]

I think they would work great.The only thing is you will have to change your intake to a Vortec specific intake.

 

[Hib Halverson]

Vortec iron heads have 66cc chambers, smaller than those in the heads on a 72 350. I suspect that will make for a significant increase in compression.

Additionally, the port volume is fairly large.

A 350 with Vortech iron heads and an appropriate camshaft is going to require more of an intake manifold than is the Edelbrock Performer. Problem is there are no good intake manifolds that will fit under a stock hood.

You've got compromises to make is you're not going to put a different hood on the car.

 

[bobfil]

Is there any way around keeping the original hood on?

 

[Crimson Thunder]

Is there any way around keeping the original hood on?

Maybe,
What air cleaner are you using?If you are using the stock dual snorkel you might be out of luck.If you are using a open 14 inch air cleaner you might get away with running a smaller filter to compensate for the intake.

In the GM performance cataloge there is two Vortec dual plane manifolds.The dual pattern one does not have a hood clearance warning so it might work.

 

[Hib Halverson]

Is there any way around keeping the original hood on?

I agree with "sharkcar71". PN 12496820 might fit, but I'd measure find a way to measure it before I'd buy.

That still is going to leave you with the challenge of the much higher compression you get with the Vortec truck head.

 

[bobfil]

I agree with "sharkcar71". PN 12496820 might fit, but I'd measure find a way to measure it before I'd buy.

That still is going to leave you with the challenge of the much higher compression you get with the Vortec truck head.

''sharkcar71'' asked what size is air filter, it is a edelbrock 14'' dia. with a 2'' 5/8 in height. Hib I think stock compression is 8.5, how much higher would the vortecs be, and could I get away with out replacing anything else but the cam. Also I know vortecs have a safe lift limit of around 450 and respond better to split duration cams so there is other issues and what is your recommended lift for a decent streetable (mild but with power).I have also read that the cast 062 # is the better one than cast 906#, because 906 has harden seats which flow a little less than 062's.

 

[Curtis]

I run stock vortec heads (stock valve springs and no porting) and a Performer intake with a 2 inch tall filter. No problems with hood clearance in my 76. There are drop base units out there that will allow you to run a thicker (taller) filter. Step up the cam to Comp XE262. With headers and dual exhaust you will realize a major inrease in the torque and horsepower from a stock motor. 87 octane gas is fine for my engine. Scoggin Dickey has a complete package including gaskets and bolts for this conversion and it is very low price per horsepower gained. more info on vortecs here Danger Mouse Recap 355 Cid Short Block-Super Chevy Magazine
scogging dickey here SDPC Vortec Cylinder Heads and Head Kits

 

[c31980]

find a decent used/new edelbrock performer rpm heads well fit with your stock manifold mutch less wight & good respond max spring left is .550 as per edl manul

also u dont need a reverse water pump