I bought a set of Merlin intakes for a set of 540,s with gm heads . But to be installed I would have had to machine the ends to fit the heads cause of a knot onthe head. They didnt tell me this at CP Performance when I ordered them . So I used the big brodix APBA style. But it seams My torque curve could move up a bit if I used the Merlins cause the intake plenum is tapered bown smaller then opens back up . I am learning that bigger is not always better. Any opinions ?

Bigger is not always better.
I just got a set of Dart Iron Eagles for my 461cu.
The smaller ports should help out midrange alot too.

I recently went through the decision of bigger or smaller intake runners. I just built an NA 540 with AFR 315 cnc'ed heads. I tossed around the rectangular port vs oval port intake for a while. I ended up using a Dart oval port intake, which I gasket matched to my AFR heads. There was alot of material to remove at the exit of the intake runner. I went into the port about 1 1/2" to get a smooth transition. It seemed to work out well for me. I was happy with the dyno results.

It seems my torque curve could move up a bit if I used the Merlins cause the intake plenum is tapered down smaller then opens back up .

I am curious to know if there is any truth to the above statement.
Can anyone shed any light on this?

Boatman,

Sterling used Brodix on my 510 c.i. motors. Also had a friend gain 200-300 rpm over Dart intakes with Brodix on 502's. Should work well for you.