so my combo is .510/.520 cam, vortec heads, super victor intake. Using a stock shortblock with 4 valve reliefs and fel-pro head gaskets that come in their "Full gasket set" that are the MLS ones. I'm guessing factory was 9.5:1 compression, so I should be right around there, possibly slightly lower due to the new head gaskets? Can I get away with 87 octane on this motor, or am I stuck with 93?

 

Aluminum or iron vortecs?

Either way it should be 87 friendly depending on your timing curve.

 

iron vortecs, just didn't want to get into detonation at the track on hot humid days flogging the crap out of it

 

V8 in the sidebar isn't terrible descriptive... 350?

duration @ .050"? or, intake closing # on the cam? did you do any work to the motor? ie, polish the combustion chamber? check the piston depth?

 

350 motor, duration is solid cam 242/246 i believe. didn't touch the heads other than all the usuals for screw in studs, open up spring pockets and cut down guides for .530 guides and cut the height down for .550 lift. piston depth is whatever is typical of a factory motor from 91, i didn't touch them, just wirewheeled off all the carbon buildup and tossed new bearings in the motor.

 

Between the size of the cam and the shape of the Vortec chambers, I think you should be alright on 87.

 

sounds good, no expensive gas for the engine.