Small Block performance upgrade suggestions

Thank you for searching for that article on cam choices.

Is it possible to get by with just the Vortech heads and no cam change?

Anyone have a link to research Vortec (sp?) or Vortech (sp?) head availability?

[Rookie]

There are about 7 sets of vortec heads on Ebay right now.

I am also looking to hop up a 350 for a friend. Will be real interested in the cam specs also.
Thanks.

[Iggy]

The Vortec heads are a good choice for an upgrade but be careful when changing cams. The Vortec head has limited valve lift capability unless they're modified.
The Vortec can only handle valve lifts of about .420 max. The valve guide boss and spring seats need to be machined to gain lift. Several companies offer the Vortec heads already modified so rework isn't necessary.

[groove]

This article should help you out a little:
http://www.chevyhiperformance.com/howto/97458/

Great suggestions! The article is also very informative.

3 questions:

1) Is there a difference between a Vortec head for a marine application as opposed to a vehicle application?
Can I talk to any Vortec head supplier?

2) Will the stock valve covers still work?

3) Is it possible to just change the heads without porting the heads, changing the cam, pistons, or heads?
Or would it make sense to do the additional modifications while the engines are out?
I would do the additional modifications as long the price and reliability is reasonable.

[wonderwick]

If anyone is interested I have a new zz4 383 stroker with dyno time only. It already has lighning headers and all the go fast internal parts. Internally balanced and blueprinted.

yes while their out blueprint them and do port work on the chevy vortec heads ,mainly the valve pocket !

Also you could trade them for some other motors

the marine head has innconel exhaust valves and good intakes

[Iggy]

1) Is there a difference between a Vortec head for a marine application as opposed to a vehicle application?
Can I talk to any Vortec head supplier?

2) Will the stock valve covers still work?

3) Is it possible to just change the heads without porting the heads, changing the cam, pistons, or heads?

1)No difference, except for the exhaust valves. A severe duty type needs to be installed.
2) Yes. I think I saw you have the center bolt style. That's what they take.
3) Yes you could. But, the intake manifold will need to be replaced because the intake ports and bolt pattern are different. Check to see what rocker arms are currently on your engine. The Vortec heads require self aligning rockers. Guide plates aren't used. If you decide to go with roller rockers check into Comp Cams and GM Performance Parts.

Great advice!

As I start adding up the costs, I am starting to wonder if it would make sense to switch my engines with Scorpions. I may be $9k to $10,000 out of pocket after selling my present engines.

Any thoughts?