I am buiding my first engine and I am in need of some expertise. I purchased an engine with the following components that I am putting together. I want to keep my TPI intake (speed density) but I want to optimize the power potential of this engine. I already have the larger runners from AS&M but I need to know what intake manifold, heads, valves, and cam I should buy. I have about $1500 - $2000 to spend and I want to get the most bang for my buck. The car is going to be a weekend warrior but I want it to have some punch! I purchased the TCI streetfighter transmission and I have the Australian 9-bolt rear end (no idea of the gear ratio). I have heard a lot about the vortec heads but I am unsure of the needed changes to make these work with the TPI. Optimally, I want 350 HP at the rear wheels. I greatly appreciate anyone who can provide help!

Here are my engine specs:

block is 2 bolt main, ARP main studs, milodon diamond stripper windage tray
Eagle 5.7" press pin lightweight rods (SIR5700BPLW)
Federal Mogul hypereutectic pistons (H345NP40)
Moly rings (E251K40)
Clevite rod & main bearings
Eagle stock replacement new 350 crank

Thanks again!

 

For 1500-2000 for a top end you're going to be pretty much limited to something like a Vortec head. They make great power on 355's though so don't worry. Try to get a bare pair of castings and put good springs, guideplates and rockers in them. If you can afford it put a set of stainless valves to save soem weight and pick up some flow. Make sure to get a good valve job too.

As for the intake, I gladly forgot all I knew about TPI when I went to carbs.

 

Yeah he's right. Go for a pair of vortec heads. $250 bucks fully assembled (no rocker arms) on summitracing.com. Get a bumpstick to your choosing (make sure the heads can handle the lift, might have to machine them) and pick up a vortec head compatible manifold for a carb.

That's basically my setup (except with fully ported vortecs and huge valves in them - might go with bigger fastburn vortecs though) and im hoping to put down enough power for high 11s in a lightened thirdgen. I'm also going with a cam thats 230+ duration.

if you let me know your goals i can help you choose a cam meeting your needs. or you can give comp cams a call, they're real friendly and will help you out.