Ok, I know all the manifold stuff, and I did a search, but still have a couple quick questions.
1. Is there any difference between the SDPC heads and ones that came stock on cars or I can get through a chevy parts department. I'm just seeing if there are any cheaper options.

2. Are they a different cc than the L98s? If I am loing there, does the flow increase make up for it?

Thanks! I'm sorry, I know everyone has to be getting tired of vortec questions.
Ps. Has anyone gotten the base yet, if so how is it?

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-='89 Iroc-Z=-
-= 350 TPI =-

 

1. They are the same casting. SDPC offers them in several stages of preparation in addition to NIB. IMHO as they come NIB their performance is somewhat limited, although the limits are quite different from most other heads; but as you spend money on machine work to overcome their limitations (lift, valve spring dia, pull-out studs, replacement truck valves, etc.) their economy disappears in a big hurry. Again IHMO the best way to utilize them is to work within their limits, which still allow for over 400 HP easily from a 350 with the NIB product (using an induction system other than TPI of course).

2. They are similar to the iron L98 heads, at about 64cc. "Real" L98 heads, from Vettes, are aluminum and are about 58cc. That has nothing to do with flow so I don't exactly know how to answer that question.

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"So many Mustangs, so little time..."
ICON Motorsports

 

The vortec heads are actually of an LT1 design. They came after the LT1 and basically were the truck version of the LT1 heads. Many combos can come in with over 400HP from these heads out of the box. Basically what RB83L69 said - If you don't plan on going over 350HP or so they are great heads for a great price. The closer you get to 400HP and over though the more stuff you've got to do to them, but up to 350HP or so you're fine using the stock setup. Might wanna do screw in studs just as a precaution. Not a big deal.

My setup uses them out of the box with the springs shimmed for a little more tension, but essentially they are stock. I'm guessing about 360-370 HP with the Pro-Ram. Just need posi to get it to the ground
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88 firebird formula
350 Vortec, Accel Pro-Ram MPFI
214int/224exh, .471int/.491exh
Edelbrock headers
T56 - SIX-speed
open 3.73's
3 inch Flowmaster catback
I love pissing those LS1's off

Old time with TBI - 13.9 @103mph, 2.6 60ft

My Formula

[This message has been edited by Birmass (edited October 09, 2001).]

[This message has been edited by Birmass (edited October 09, 2001).]

 

I got my vortecs from SDPC, and had no problems.

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Jeff

'85 Berlinetta, Special Beater Edition
Mods include a 4bolt 350 with 280*, .460 lift cam, Vortec heads, Comp Cams roller tip rockers, Edelbrock TES headers, no other exhaust . Also, rusted parts on all 4 corners, and crumpled fenders, thanks to the previous owner.