ok so whats the difference between lt4 and lt1 heads? as opposed to the stock heads.... which one holds a better cam??

 

SBC heads don't hold a cam - the case does that.

LT1 heads are available in either cast iron or cast aluminum. LT4 heads are only available in aluminum. LT4 heads have a higher port location along the intake flange, and slightly larger port volumes. LT1 heads came with 1.94/1.50 valves, while the LT4 heads came with 2.00/1.55 valves. LT1 heads (depending on type) flow at about 214/165 SCFM at 0.500" valve lifts, while the LT4 heads flow at about 250/180 SCFM @ 0.500". LT4 heads require a special intake with higher ports or a specially modified "standard" LT1 intake to match the port positions.

 

i understand the cam isnt in the heads but...so what your saying is if i put in lt4 heads i gotta change to an intake that will match those ports? is that possible with a tbi? and what about the whole thing with lt1's being a reverse flow head, does that just mean the intake and exhaust valves are switched??
(im trying to learn more about heads)

 

There is no practical way to bolt a TBI intake to an LT4 head. You'd have to completely change the head flanges on the intake.

"Reverse-flow" in reference to SBC-II (LT1, LT4, L99) engines describes teh coolant flow through the engine. The entire cooling system is redesigned from the original layout to pump cooler water to the heads before the block. This necessitated a redesign of the coolant passages in the block deck, front face, and cylinder heads.
If you're retrofitting SBC-II heads to an older SBC case, you'll have to weld up some of the cooling passage holes and machine the area flat. You'll also have to contend with the steam vent in the rear of the heads.

If you arent't prepared to do the work yourself, the cost would probably drive the price of the heads beyond good aftermarket heads that will bolt right up.

 

ok the variation in the different ports restrict me using my stock manifold, ok thanks