I have an oportuninty to pick up some LB9 heads off a 1986. I have a 1990 Lo3 (mods in sig) and would like to use these heads as a cheap upgrade to compliment a cam (L98 or Lt1, sold the LT4). I would like to port them slightly by myself to take advantage of the TPI head that I read about all the time. Are these heads really worth it? What do I have to do to make them work besides elongating the bolt holes on my current intake, and going with a perimiter style valve covers. Is the vavletrain geometry the same as the 87+? I am not going to keep the 305 but would like to have a little cheap fun with it before I go for serious power. The car is wrecked and while it stays like that for now I would like to learn how to properly install heads and cam on a motor. If I mess up no biggy, not keeping it anyways. Plus I can learn a lot doing all of this myself. What are heads like this worth?

 

Can anyone take a crack at this? I'm thinking of doing this swap myself. Any and all info appreciated.

 

I know that with good port work they flow pretty good. I don't want to have them matcnined so I will keep my cam #'s well within the limits of the heads. Cheap is the goal here. I understand I need perimeter valve covers and elongated intake holes but I just wanted t make sure that I got everything down. I have exhausted my search efforts. My main concern is what are these heads worth because I do not want to pay to much. I can get the pair shipped to my house for a smooth 100. However, if yards sell them at 50 out the door than I will look there.

 

These heads come on lb9, l69 and I think any 4 barrel 305 chevy used in cars, trucks or vans.

As far as your question about valvetrain geometry it's the same as with any factory small block except the ls1.

Steve

 

Thats what I figured but I have a habit of taking certian things for granted. Anyone know what a set usualy goes for?

 

Next to nothing because they're so damn common. Make sure you don't get ripped off....

 

I found a set for 65 but would have to pay an arm and a leg for shipping. That detered me from the sale. Most junk yards that I have talked to want me to buy the whole engine. That is a no no as well.

 

If you want to keep the stock appearing valve covers, use the 87 LG4 heads. They are the same as the 305 TPI heads the same year. only 88 model year and up got the TBI swirl port heads
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