I'm looking at a set of used lt1 aluminum heads. Is anyone running these? Are these junk or are they a pretty decent head? What kind of HP will these support in stock form? Any info is appreciated.

 

You can't just bolt them on an earlier engine- coolant flow was completely different in an LT-X motor. They can be modified to work on an earlier engine, but they're definitely not a bolt-on. They're OK heads, but for the aggravation involved you're probably better off just getting a set of Vortecs.

 

Damon is right, LT1 heads will not work on a traditional SBC without some bajor modifications... BUT if you check out the Vortec heads, they are based on the LT1 heads - the chamber is the same design, although 62cc VS the 54cc LT1 head chambers. The port location and design is also the same.

If you want an LT1 head on your SBC, use Vortec heads - their design was HEAVILY influenced by the LT1 heads. They are also plentiful and fairly cheap. They work as-is on any traditional SBC. The only major difference is that they are cast iron instead of aluminum.