[ratrod47]

I'm currently working on a 350 and I need to know the advantages of
using vortec heads versus old 1.94- 1.5s I have a set of the old ones
but they need to be rebuilt. Is it more cost effective to buy some
good used vortecs? If so, anybody know a casting code # so I can make sure
I get the right ones. Mild build engine, auto trans. Thanx

 

[V8 Super Beetle]

You can get 20-40 hp more by using Vortec heads. They're the best production cast iron heads made by GM and fairly inexpensive. Look for casting #062 or #906 if you plan to buy used. You can get a good set of used vortec heads for $200-300. Also, 060 is the GM aftermarket vortec head. Same deal as the 062 / 906 but made in mexico. You can buy the 060s for $600 new on Summit or Jegs.

The drawbacks about using vortec heads is having to use a vortec specific intake manifold due to their tall intake runners and 8 bolt pattern, you'll have to use center bolt valve covers, and their limited lift of .45.

Great thing is you can easily get 400 hp using vortec heads with a "matching" performance intake and cam.

Check out this link for more info and do a search. Lots of good info about these heads.

http://www.chevyhiperformance.com/howto/97458/index.html

 

[curtis73]

I honestly don't build a 350 anymore without at least vortecs. I've built a few with aftermarket heads in search of more oomph, but given how cheap vortecs are and how much better they are than even the best pre-vortec head, no contest.

I buy up cheap vortecs when I find them and just stockpile them. Worth every penny on a street SBC