Best way for me to do Vortec heads?

[dyeager535]

Combustion chamber design is one important component of power production, which is why the Vortecs have the specific chamber design they do, as well as the swirl ramp in the TBI heads.

Vortecs essentially re-wrote the book on the small block, with the chamber design, spark plug relocation, plus the runner re-shaping, and bolt pattern.

A Vortec combustion chamber is much less likely to have detonation issues (higher compression on 87 octane) than a standard head, and will require less timing to run optimally.

It really comes down to cost. You have to add up the cost of all your options, and see what the cheapest route is to get to your goal.

 

[kp texan]

I know the Vortec is an excellent design for a stock head but would they make better power on my engine than say a set of standard Dart Iron Eagle or World Products S/R heads? The reason I'm asking is because I'm possibly looking at going 1 of 3 ways: get stock Vortec heads and the GM Vortec TBI intake manifold ($950 for both), go with a set of standard aftermarket heads (such as World Products S/R) and an Edelbrock TBI manifold ($1020 for both), or just go with the kit from Scoggin-Dickey and a Carb-TBI adapter (cheaper but impossible to run EGR and might require some fab). Basically I'm looking for the best HP/Dollar value as long as the cost stays reasonable.

Thanks,

Wes

 

[dyeager535]

Up high, I don't think there is any question the AFR's are the best bet. As long as you stick with a high velocity (typically smaller runners for lower RPM engines) design, I don't see how they can be beat.

For low end power, the Vortec's or stock TBI heads are probably the best bets.

It's not an easy choice, but *personally* I'd draw a line right down the middle between low end power and upper end. Wanting 300HP to me means you like to go fast. Vortec heads don't really work as well at higher RPM's as say a set of AFR's.

What you AREN'T getting with Vortecs are good, standard size valve springs, capability for higher lift camshafts, durable castings, standard intake pattern, and screw in studs.

I doubt you'll hear anyone complain who has purchased AFR heads. Do they have a tech support number or email address you can contact them? They are the experts on their heads, they should at least point you in the right direction for THEIR product.

I'd think a set of AFR heads, better intake, slightly stronger camshaft, and better exhaust would make a heck of a nice motor.

 

[bowtiepower00]

The Brodix IK180 is tough to beat for the price.

 

[RootBreaker]

well this is what I did....


$200 vortec heads used (they were shaved and in great shape)
$255 Comp Cams Chevy 262-400 Xtreme 4x4 X4258HR Cam (.458" lift)
$120 vortec dual plane intake (i know you are keeping your tbi) weiand power plus+

 

[kp texan]

After doing a little research and looking at the options, I am now leaning towards using a set of aftermarket non-vortec heads and a new TBI intake manifold rather than going with the Vortec heads and the Vortec TBI manifold. The reasons I'm thinking about going this route are because I'd really like to keep my emissions equipment if possible, the Vortec TBI manifold is pricey, and the stock lift on Vortec heads limits my choice in cams. I realize that aftermarket heads and a regular TBI manifold will cost more than Vortec heads and a Vortec TBI manifold but the difference won't be huge and I will have a more versatile head setup with the non-vortec heads. Also, the non-Vortec install should be more straight forward and thats worth some money to me.

Also, what intake runner volume and comb. chamber volume should I be looking for? I know stock Vortecs are a 64cc chamber and 170cc runner so I'll possibly be looking for a 64cc chamber and a 180cc runner? I remember reading that a smaller runner makes better low end throttle response and torque which is what I'm looking for.

One article that concerns me a bit is this one: http://www.chevyhiperformance.com/techarticles/83138_choosing_best_small_block_heads/index1.html
It looks like the Vortec does better than the Iron Eagles but it appears they are factoring in valve sizes and lift. The Iron Eagles are larger than the Vortecs in both areas so I'm hoping that the Iron Eagles or S/R Torquers will flow atleast a little better than stock Vortecs.

Thanks for the help,

Wes