need new heads

[browningejm]

found out today i have a cracked head on my 1990 k-5...i would like to increase performance abit, without spending a bundle, with a new set of heads..what would be the best way to go?I want to reuse the parts i have, (ie,exhaust manifolds and intake)...the motor is stock 350 w/ throttle body...tia,ERIK

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

You already have the center bolt valve covers and late style intake, so vortec heads will be a direct swap and will net you a significant power gain.

http://www.jegs.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_10001_10002_749896_-1_10187

 

[frankin5]

Vortec heads will bolt on to your block. You will need a Vortec manifold.

 

[blazed07]

Swapping to Vortec heads and a Vortec manifold, is it possible to retain the factory EGR system?

 

[Jason4x4]

you will need the vortec egr stuff as well

 

[Thunder]

If you are not going to change the cam, intake,exhaust,and chip. A new set of vortec heads would be a waste of money.
The TBI cam is a very low performance cam and is designed for TBI heads. You wont gain much bolting on a set of Vortecs, or any other head for that matter.
IMO if you are not going to get a new performance cam. Your best bet is a set of TBI 193 heads and having a little port work done on them. Gasket match and clean up the intake runners and swirl ramps, will give you a bit more power.(aprox 20 hp)
That would be your easiest and cheapest route.
The Vortec swap will easily cost over $800 if you buy all new parts.
World makes direct bolt in TBI heads their Torker heads are around 800.
You can also get a set of L98 heads from GM. Direct fit for TBI. They will make more power on top but you will loose some low end. Cost around 650 new. IMO they are only marginaly better than stock 193 heads.