[Blob]

i am rebuilding a 283 sbc on a budget. I am currently trying to get a plan of attack formed so i know what to spend time on and what not to spend time on. So i turn my attentiong to the heads. They are original heads off this 57 283, the bottom has been rebuilt(domed slugs .060 over, new rings, bearings, pretty big cam...) I want to port and polish the heads myself. To do this i should remove the valves and springs and all that right? If i do remove that and port the heads should i buy new springs guides valves and all that? I really dont have the cash for a new set of heads and dont really want to send these heads out. Any input would be great.

[BOBCRMAN@aol.com]

I don't want to discourage you but I get kids in all the time wanting to do the same thing. You are better off selling the heads to a restorer and getting some 305 heads, the later heads will have less wear(usually), they flow better, have bigger ports, and most important they have hardened exhaust seats. In my area of the country you can tie up $500-600.00 in a set of 283's trying to get them right and to last.
Yes you will have to have the heads apart to port them and do the required bowl work.

[345coupe]

If you are determined to save $$ and learn, great. I suggest that you get a junk set to try you grinding skills on first. If you mess up your only heads, you're sunk. Go with some 305's. They will flow better, have a warranty, and work better un unleaded gas.

[OddRodder]

I too agree with the advice given soo far. Look for a set of 4 barrel 305's with the 1.84 intakes. Also, you didn't mention the comp. ratio of the domed pistons, the 305 heads have a 58cc chamber so that would raise compression. 57' 283 heads= 64cc???