Small Block performance upgrade suggestions
05-21-2003, 05:13 AM
#14
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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.
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.
Last edited by Iggy; 05-21-2003 at 05:22 AM.
05-21-2003, 06:41 AM
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05-21-2003, 08:30 AM
#16
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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.
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.
05-21-2003, 09:32 AM
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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.
05-21-2003, 11:30 AM
#19
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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?
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?
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.
Last edited by Iggy; 05-21-2003 at 11:33 AM.
