Let's say I wanted to put together an engine with the best power, limited by a stock roller 350 bottom end (either '87+ or L31) and 91 octane. Carbureted, T5 transmission, sub-3000 lb. vehicle.

Budget is of primary concern, but I like the weight savings of aluminum heads. Vortec heads seem like an obvious choice, but after considering port work, cutting the valve guides and spring seats for clearance, and pinning the rocker arm studs, aftermarket heads start to become more attractive.

Of the many options available, it would be nice to hear some opinions.

AFR 180cc
Brodix IK 180
Edelbrock E-Tec 170, 200
Trick Flow Super 23 175, Twisted Wedge
L98 Corvette

Others?

Any approvals, suggestions or otherwise would help when browsing classifieds. Thanks in advance.

 

The issue is going to be the T5 - you get the power you desire and that T5 is gonna crap out on the first good run.

 

You did hit on most of the good choices. I'd remove from the list any head over 180 cc. The Dart Pro 1 Platinum 180 heads should be on your list, as should the aluminum RHS 180 heads and the aluminum ProTopline 180 heads. I'd also remove both Trick Flow choices from the list. Their small is too small, the TW is 195 and thus too big.

 

Do the L98 heads come anywhere close to Vortecs?

 

Stock, NO! But they can be modified to surpass stock Vortecs.

 

Is it possible to say if the GM Hotcam would be best for such a build, or a Comp XR?

It seems 6000 rpm is about the safe limit, RPM air gap intake, or single plane?

It is very easy to get carried away or even lost with all the different components available. I just want to get an idea of what will work well once it's all put together. Since this will be pretty much the first small block I've built, I think it is best to just use the stock bottom end parts and go from there.

 

Definitely the RPM AirGap. But don't buy one until you get the heads. The E-Tec 170s need the Vortec style. Also no point choosing a cam until you get some heads. Some heads want a lot of extra exhaust duration, others ( like the AFRs ) do best with a single-pattern cam.

 

I guess my questions seem to really point to your first 350 build from the sticky, but it's nice to have some dialog about the combinations nonetheless. I'll start looking for some heads.