I've been looking at the Scoggin-Dickey vortec head kit (included heads with upgraded springs, retainers, screw-in studs, etc. plus vortec TPI intake, gaskets, bolts, EGR kit, rocker arms...) for about $1300.

Probably would not use the stamped rocker arms and upgrade to some roller rockers - perhaps 1.5/1.6 split ratios.

Probably stick with stock cam or perhaps a small increase. Also probably stick with TPI-style runners for now and not go with HSR, MR, or SR.

How is that kit price and performance potential in general? Not looking to be the fastest on the street, just a nice increase over my basically stock Z?

Thanks,
Todd

I'm happy with my vortec setup on my 88', but I have GMPP fast burn alum heads.

Between that, the intake, this that and other, yes, the head and intake combo works well. But at $1300 for the entire setup, that's enough for some good aftermarket standard heads and something like the LT1 intake converted over. $1300 is a decent amount to throw at a top end. Self ported heads and an HSR or something, that's another option.

Not saying yay or nay to the Vortec setup, just do some comparisons. What are you willing to put into it versus what are you wanting out of the engine.

Are emissions important?

A vortec with the egr kit installed will pass emissions in CA ( tough smog state) aftermarket heads and LT1/stealth ram/mini ram - will not pass visual in any strict state- unless you have a inspector who is not paying attension. but it would suck to have to pull apart a car to pass smog.

my $.02

I have vortecs on my car and am slightly pissed about it they do perform well but you really limit yourself on options theres only 4 different heads you can get
1 of them being factory vortec that take work to accept any decent lift
2 fast burns which some people like and some others hate for some reason
3 e-tec heads havent seen these on too many cars but most of them booked fwiw

I like my iron vortecs but the guy i got the car from didnt pop for upgraded heads so now i have to pull em and get machine work done to run any decent cam which sucks if you ask me so if your gonna get em just make sure and get them for high lift

I woulldn't put serious money into any heads that aren't aluminum. Just my opinion.

I dont think 340 a head is alot of money but to each there own