im going to be collecting parts to upgrade my L03, so far ive read the heads from the 305 tpi and the LT1 cam are a good choice
any ideas on what a good price for a set of rebuilt heads would be? i think they were just cleaned and new valves and springs were put in

 

a good price would be 1 dollar, maybe that would be a great price. my shop here charges around 150 to do a set of heads, parts not included. add 100 dollars for a good set of springs and retainers to the list. manley valves run around 10 dollars each so there's 160. rockers if they're included will run you 150 for a cheap set from comp.

 

You can find 305 TPI heads for under a hundred bucks. However you do not want to just slap them on. You want to perform the services that ede described and make them worth while. You still come out cheaper than most after market heads out there.

 

thanks for the replies, I found a set online for only $100, they look cleaned up and it says new springs and valves.. sounds pretty cheap though. Is it likely one is cracked or just cheap replacement parts??

 

Purchasing online is always a shot in the dark. Unless it's a reputable source (which ebay isn't), then you can just sit with your fingers crossed hoping you truly are getting a deal.

Personally I would check the local classifieds and wreckers. That way you can check them out before you buy them.

 

Well said. Plus you are going to pay a ton just to have them shipped. I would go to your local clubs or junk yards and check them out for yourself.

 

Another option if you're willing to do the minor intake manifold bolt hole mode: 416 castings are the same port/chamber design as 081's. I know someone who's selling a set for basically the cost of shipping (see classifieds...).

 

Speaking of 305 heads, I have an 88 IROC with the LB9 engine. Which of the two castings "should" be on my car? The 416s or the 081s? Which is better? The valve covers are the centerbolt type, if that makes a difference.

I read another post here where someone did a full up P&P job on 305 heads, and that included machining in bigger valves. As I recall, he went to 1.94 intakes and 1.60 exhausts, and they fit. Has anyone else had this done to the stock GM castings?

I'm a bit hesitant to pull my valve covers and look inside to see the casting numbers, since right now the engine leaks ZERO oil, and I want to keep it that way. My engine is CLEAN. I hate leaking valve covers, my old first gen 327 Camaro always leaked.

 

081. Neither is better, but they are different in the intake mount bolt angle on the center two, and center- vs. perimeter-bolt pattern.

Many have done the 1.94", some 1.60" exhaust. There's a tech article on the board about porting/larger-valves, etc., in fact.

 

Don't be afraid to pull your valve covers. Most 3rd gens ones are rubber and can be reused. I have pulled my covers tons of times and yet to have a leak.