383 STROKER WITH VORTECH HEADS. THE HEADS CAN TAKE UP TO .550 VALVE LIFT BUT THE LIFT IS CURRENTLY ABOUT .500. IF I CHANGE THE RATIO TO 1.6 WILL I GET MORE LIFT AND THEREFORE MORE POWER?

 

If you switch from a 1.5 roller rocker to a 1.6 roller rocker, you'll make around 5 more HP.

If you switch from a stamped steel 1.5 rocker to a 1.6 roller rocker, you'll make a bit more than that.

 

yea i probably going with some aluminum roller rockers. so wil 1.7's give me 10 hp haha?

 

If you switch to larger ratio rockers you'll have to watch for your valve train geometry too. Your pushrod length will come in to play here. Assuming your valve lift is right at .500" with a 1.5 ratio rocker, a 1.7 will put you over your max lift at .566"

 

I don't think there are any 1.7 rockers for a Gen 1 SBC. It would put the pushrod even closer to the pedestal. The guide hole through the head only allows so much movement.

BBC use 1.7 rockers but the rocker pedestal is also a different distance away from the valve.

Aluminum rockers are not the best choice except when used in a street engine. If you survey it, you'll find most people with performance engines prefer Comp Cams Pro Magnum rockers. Even I broke a Crane Gold rocker back when I had a SBC. High end rockers are shaft mount like Jesel and T&D. Expect to pay around $1000 for a set.

 

Thanks for the advice. I'll probably just go with some aluminum 1.6 rockers. I mainly use this engine on the street and im not lookin to spend anywhere close to $1000. a nice $300 set from jegs should do nicely

 

I don't know if they make a 1.7 either, the highest I can find is a 1.65. http://summitracing.com/parts/LUN-85320LUN/