Getting all the pieces together for engine build, I have a question about heads. I am using an pre-86 block, have 95 LT1 intake, I want to use GM production heads. What is the best head for this setup? (Not stroking block, pistons are Sealed Power Hypes, using forged crank, using roller cam and lifters) Thaks in advance, DL

 

Need more info. What kind of power are you looking to make? what kind of cam are you considering? what are your concerns regarding fuel economy? What kind of gears are you running? Give us as much info as you can and that will allow us to be a MUCH bigger help in answering your question.

 

This is first engine build, I would like to get decent mileage (12-15), better than I am getting with my V6. I want mild lopey cam, I am getting an 8.5 rear and installing 3.73 gears, have an option to either get an 700R4 or T-5 (everything) block is 4 bolt. I don't do any drag racing but like the GT side. Car will be a daily driver, 52 miles one-way to work. I am going .030 on the block with cast pistons. I hope this helps, thanks DL

 

Are you building an LT-1? If so, you'll need reverse cooling heads, opti-spark, and all that other crap! Build a TPI motor, its cheaper, easier, and you dont have to worry about keeping the optispark dry (cant wash your motor) due to the fact that most LT-1 guys have problems with the opti-spark when it gets wet. If you want a short runner setup, buy a mini-ram from TPIS, it is an LT-1 intake with provisions for a distributor. If you are not building an LT-1, check out my Topics on Fast burn heads, E-tec heads, 1bad91Z in aftermarket product review, those topics should give you some insight on which heads to buy.

 

Pretty much everything 1bad91Z said is correct. I will just add to it a bit. Although he and I differ on the family, we agree on the type of design we like for our heads. The raised intake runner/ fast burn design of the E-Tecs, Vortecs and Fast Burns yield many benefits including the ability to run more compression, better flow per intake runner cc, and a more efficient burn (related to the compression bit). Anyhow, if you can, I would sell the LT-1 intake. I have read that they go for around $200-$250. Although I can't verify that, it sounds about right. You will have your hands full making it fit correctly (unless you send it to John that is ) Use that money and buy a TPI Vortec base. If you are on a tight budget, its hard to beat Vortecs. They will give superb flow and good mileage when matched to a good cam. Furthermore, The TPI plenum and runners shouldn't be too expensive if you get the stock ones. If you stick with this setup, the power won't overwhelm you, but it should feel pretty good. Personally for cams, its hard to beat the Comp XE series cams, but a lot of people here have had success with the LT4 HOT cam and TPIS cams. I have never dealt with the latter two, and have only dealt with Comp, but I can say firsthand they do a good job with their support and recommendations. If you want mileage, stick with a toquey cam that works with the TPI. Comp can give you more detailed advice on that. This should get you started anyway. Good luck.

 

rockind78:

The reason he is going with the LT1 intake is because it flows WAY more than the TPI will..ever. We all know the upgraded TPI part require you to sell your soul. I have bought SLP runners, base, tb, and plenum all used for way more than the LT1 intakes go for. Once i sell my original setup i will make even more on it.

84LS creeper:

The only way you are going to be able to have a good set of heads from GM is if your have some stock L98 heads ported. Look into the WP Sportsman II's. They are a decent heads that is emissions friendly. I am going with a very similar setup to you and that is what i plan to use.

 

Omega,

The reason I recommended the Vortec/type heads is because he DID state that mileage is an issue. Additionally, it is common knowledge that ideal cylinder head flows enough to support your HP goals with the SMALLEST POSSIBLE PORT VOLUME. If you check out this info from CHP (thanks Brian):
http://www.geocities.com/z28esser/headcomp.html
You will see that the Vortecs outflow the Sportsmans at a relatively low lift. This will give the increased charge velocity and driveabilty one would want for a daily driven car. Also, even though we all know the LT1 intake TOTALLY outflows the the L98 setup, I think we can agree that the base IS the biggest restriction in the mix. IF he can get a decent price for the LT-1 intake, than why not go with an aftermarket base? Seems like a LOT less of a headache than with an LT-1. Additionally, if those Scoggin Dic key Vortec engines really are cranking out 300 hp with just a base and head change, then that would squarely put you in Corvette LT-1 territory.

[This message has been edited by rockind78 (edited December 07, 2001).]

[This message has been edited by rockind78 (edited December 07, 2001).]

 

By the way, I would say that if your are not getting at LEAST 15 mpg's with a V6, there is a problem somwehere. My extremely tired (over 300,000 miles) 3800 gives me around 23-25 hwy and 17-19 city in my '91 Regal

[This message has been edited by rockind78 (edited December 07, 2001).]