OK, I've been looking at the Pro-Topline vortec heads. The more research I do, it seems a lot of people like the SDPC base, but some don't. I've also just read that the SLP runners require a little work to bolt up to the base, and extensive work is required to fit the SuperRam.

Point is I'm curious as to what heads would be similar to the Topline vortecs? I haven't even looked at "non" vortecs for 6 months, so I'm a little behind the curve. I'm gonna shop around quite a bit, but just lookin' for a little headstart. I really like the Pro Topline affordability.

 

Ill give you a link so you can decide for yourself. I personally dont see whats the big deal with vortecs for not much more you can get a set of aftermarket heads and they will flow better and already be setup for screw in studs. Aftermarket heads usually have lots of meat for porting too.
www.northernautoparts.com sells the Sportsman IIs for
$275.99 each bare

Here

 

Thanks.... ....that graph is quite a resource!!!

 

Thats funky though. It lists the L98 heads as capable of putting out over 400hp at .500 lift.

 

There's more to it than just the raw flow numbers though. The Vortecs get their flow #s with 1.94/1.5 valves and flow with/outflow alot of 2.02/1.60 heads. Which means they have velocity out the ying-yang which promotes torque, potentially great throttle response, etc. There's also the combustion chamber design vs older designs, etc, etc. Vortecs offer alot over older head designs that flow similarly like the Sportman IIs IMO, course they do need a couple tweaks to support big power like the valve spring stuff/screw in studs, etc. Still cheap power...

The Trickflow 23 degree heads would be a good affordable non-Vortec head though...

 

what about the fast burn heads those are like the hi performance alum. vortecs I think they'er just under $1000

 

I think for value the vortecs are beat since by the time you spend all the money to have them prepped and then getting an intake to match the aftermarkets may even end up being cheaper. From all the data I have conjured up when you fully port both types of heads the aftermarket will shine beyond the vortecs. I guess if you were able to get a set of vortecs for free then they would pay off but I think you would be limited once you wanted to get more out of them. Then when its all said and done good luck sealing your intake gaskets since vortecs are notorious for sealing problems.