In relation to the world of sizzling rodding and engine constructing, the Chevrolet small block is an iconic and enduring determine. For many years, these engines have powered numerous basic automobiles, muscle automobiles, and race automobiles, and so they proceed to be a preferred alternative for fans immediately. One of the necessary elements of any engine is the cylinder head, and the Chevrolet small block has various totally different head choices obtainable. Among the many hottest and well-respected are the 350 Chevy heads.
There are various the explanation why 350 Chevy heads are so common. First, they’re comparatively straightforward to search out and inexpensive. Second, they’re recognized for his or her good efficiency, each by way of energy and gasoline financial system. Third, they’re comparatively straightforward to change, making them a sensible choice for fans who wish to construct a customized engine. Nevertheless, there are additionally some potential drawbacks to utilizing 350 Chevy heads. One is that they are often heavier than another head choices, which may have an effect on the dealing with of a automobile. One other is that they are often harder to seal, which may result in leaks.
Total, 350 Chevy heads are a sensible choice for a wide range of purposes. They provide good efficiency, are comparatively straightforward to search out and inexpensive, and are straightforward to change. Nevertheless, they are often heavier than another head choices and might be harder to seal. Finally, one of the simplest ways to decide on the fitting cylinder head in your engine is to think about your particular wants and targets.
The Greatest 350 Chevy Heads for Efficiency
Vortec 350 Heads
The Vortec 350 heads, launched in 1996, symbolize a big improve over earlier small-block Chevy heads. That includes a revised combustion chamber design, improved port circulate, and the next compression ratio, they ship spectacular energy positive factors with out sacrificing a lot low-end torque. Vortex heads are generally discovered on Vortec 5.7L engines from 1996 to 2002 and are a preferred alternative for these trying to improve the efficiency of their 350 Chevy.
These heads function:
- Revised combustion chamber design for improved air-fuel mixing
- Improved port circulate for elevated airflow
- Increased compression ratio for elevated energy
- Accessible in each “Vortec” and “L31” variations
- Appropriate with each Vortec and LS-based engine blocks
| Vortec Head Specs | Worth |
|---|---|
| Combustion Chamber Quantity | 64cc |
| Consumption Port Quantity | 170cc |
| Exhaust Port Quantity | 76cc |
| Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 |
The Worst 350 Chevy Heads to Keep away from
2. Vortec Heads (1996-2002)
Vortec heads had been supplied on Vortec 350 engines from 1996 to 2002. These heads function small consumption runners and a bathtub-shaped combustion chamber, each of which limit airflow and cut back efficiency. Vortec heads even have a low compression ratio (9.4:1), which additional limits energy output.
The largest downside with Vortec heads is the dearth of aftermarket help. There are only a few efficiency upgrades obtainable for these heads, which makes it tough to enhance their efficiency.
Disadvantages of Vortec Heads:
| Drawback |
|---|
| Small consumption runners |
| Bathtub-shaped combustion chamber |
| Low compression ratio |
| Lack of aftermarket help |
Because of these disadvantages, Vortec heads are greatest averted when constructing a efficiency 350 Chevy engine.
Figuring out the Proper 350 Chevy Head for Your Wants
Choosing the proper 350 Chevy head in your engine can considerably impression efficiency. Contemplate the next elements:
Combustion Chamber Design
The combustion chamber form impacts the air-fuel combination and combustion effectivity. Widespread designs embody:
- Open Chambers: Best for low-compression engines and supply higher airflow however require increased compression ratios.
- Closed Chambers: Cut back detonation and supply increased compression ratios however could limit airflow.
- Rectangular Ports: Enhance airflow at excessive RPMs however could require consumption manifold modifications.
- Oval Ports: Present an optimum steadiness of airflow and velocity, appropriate for a variety of purposes.
Valve Prepare Configuration
The valve practice setup determines the quantity and association of valves, in addition to the camshaft’s operation. Choices embody:
- Small Block (Conventional): 2 valves per cylinder with a pushrod-actuated rocker arm system.
- Vortec Heads: Improved airflow and swirl for higher combustion, that includes 3 valves per cylinder.
- LS Sequence: Trendy design with 4 valves per cylinder and a high-flow consumption system, usually put in on GM LS engines.
Consumption and Exhaust Ports
The dimensions and form of the consumption and exhaust ports have an effect on airflow and energy output:
| Port Sort | Circulate Traits |
|---|---|
| Giant Ports | Elevated airflow capability for high-performance purposes |
| Small Ports | Improved low-end torque and gasoline financial system |
| Cathedral Ports | Optimized for low-RPM torque and supply higher scavenging |
| Bowtie Ports | Designed for high-RPM efficiency and decreased consumption turbulence |
Evaluating Totally different 350 Chevy Head Configurations
In relation to selecting the best cylinder heads in your 350 Chevy engine, there are a selection of things to think about. These embody the engine’s supposed use, the specified energy output, and the funds. That can assist you make an knowledgeable determination, this is a comparability of among the hottest 350 Chevy head configurations obtainable.
Aluminum vs. Iron Heads
Aluminum heads are lighter than iron heads, which may enhance engine efficiency and gasoline financial system. Nevertheless, aluminum heads are additionally dearer than iron heads. Iron heads are extra sturdy than aluminum heads, however they’re additionally heavier and may cut back engine efficiency.
Vortec Heads
Vortec heads are a preferred alternative for efficiency purposes. They function a novel consumption port design that helps to enhance airflow and improve energy. Vortec heads can be found in each aluminum and iron variations.
L98 Heads
L98 heads are a sensible choice for avenue efficiency purposes. They function a bigger consumption runner quantity than Vortec heads, which helps to enhance low-end torque. L98 heads are usually manufactured from iron.
AFR Heads
AFR heads are a high-performance aftermarket head that’s designed for racing purposes. They function various superior design options that assist to extend airflow and energy. AFR heads are usually manufactured from aluminum.
| Head Sort | Materials | Consumption Runner Quantity (cc) | Exhaust Runner Quantity (cc) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vortec | Aluminum | 170 | 64 |
| Vortec | Iron | 170 | 64 |
| L98 | Iron | 180 | 64 |
| AFR | Aluminum | 210 | 72 |
The Advantages of Upgrading to an Aftermarket 350 Chevy Head
In relation to upgrading the efficiency of your 350 Chevy engine, top-of-the-line methods to take action is by putting in an aftermarket cylinder head. Aftermarket heads are designed to enhance airflow, which may result in elevated horsepower and torque. They’ll additionally enhance gasoline financial system and cut back emissions.
Improved Airflow
Probably the most important advantage of upgrading to an aftermarket 350 Chevy head is improved airflow. Aftermarket heads are usually designed with bigger valves and ports than inventory heads, which permits for extra air to enter and exit the combustion chamber. This elevated airflow can result in a big improve in horsepower and torque.
Elevated Horsepower and Torque
Because of the improved airflow, aftermarket 350 Chevy heads can present a big improve in horsepower and torque. Relying on the particular head design and the opposite modifications made to the engine, it’s doable to see positive factors of as much as 50 horsepower and 75 lb-ft of torque.
Improved Gas Economic system
Whereas it could appear counterintuitive, putting in an aftermarket 350 Chevy head can really enhance gasoline financial system. It is because the elevated airflow permits the engine to burn gasoline extra effectively. This will result in a discount in gasoline consumption of as much as 5%.
Diminished Emissions
One other advantage of upgrading to an aftermarket 350 Chevy head is decreased emissions. The improved airflow and combustion effectivity can result in a discount in dangerous emissions, reminiscent of hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides.
Forms of Aftermarket 350 Chevy Heads
There are various various kinds of aftermarket 350 Chevy heads obtainable available on the market. Every sort of head has its personal distinctive benefits and drawbacks. A number of the hottest varieties of heads embody:
| Head Sort | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum Heads | Light-weight, improved airflow, elevated horsepower | Costlier than iron heads |
| Iron Heads | Cheaper than aluminum heads, sturdy | Heavier than aluminum heads, decreased airflow |
| Vortec Heads | Improved airflow, elevated horsepower, decreased emissions | Costlier than conventional heads |
Widespread Points with 350 Chevy Heads
Cracked Exhaust Manifolds:
The exhaust manifolds on 350 Chevy heads are susceptible to cracking, particularly across the No. 6 cylinder. That is as a result of excessive warmth and stress positioned on the exhaust manifold flanges. Signs of a cracked exhaust manifold embody a loud exhaust leak, lack of energy, and decreased gasoline financial system.
Warped Cylinder Heads:
The cylinder heads on 350 Chevy engines can warp over time, particularly if they’re subjected to excessive warmth or cooling. This will result in a lack of compression, coolant leaks, and efficiency issues. Signs of warped cylinder heads embody overheating, decreased energy, and a tough idle.
Valve Seat Recession:
The valve seats in 350 Chevy heads can recess over time, particularly if the engine is run with unleaded gasoline with out using an additive. This will result in a lack of compression, decreased energy, and a tough idle. Signs of valve seat recession embody a loud valvetrain, elevated oil consumption, and decreased gasoline financial system.
Consumption Manifold Gasket Leaks:
The consumption manifold gasket on a 350 Chevy head can leak over time, particularly if the engine is run at excessive temperatures or has a excessive mileage. This will result in a lack of energy, decreased gasoline financial system, and a tough idle. Signs of an consumption manifold gasket leak embody a vacuum leak, coolant leaks, and a rich-running engine.
Head Bolt Gap Stripping:
The top bolt holes on 350 Chevy heads can strip over time, particularly if the top bolts are over-tightened or the engine is subjected to excessive stress. This will result in a lack of compression, coolant leaks, and efficiency issues. Signs of stripped head bolt holes embody a loud engine, decreased energy, and a tough idle.
Cracked Exhaust Manifolds Across the No. 6 Cylinder
The No. 6 cylinder on a 350 Chevy engine is understood for being notably susceptible to exhaust manifold cracking. This is because of the truth that the No. 6 cylinder is situated on the rear of the engine, the place it’s uncovered to essentially the most warmth from the exhaust manifold. The exhaust manifold on a 350 Chevy engine can also be manufactured from forged iron, which is a brittle materials that’s susceptible to cracking underneath stress.
The signs of a cracked exhaust manifold across the No. 6 cylinder embody a loud exhaust leak, lack of energy, and decreased gasoline financial system. If you happen to suspect that your exhaust manifold is cracked, you possibly can have it inspected by a mechanic. The mechanic will be capable to decide if the exhaust manifold is cracked and can advocate one of the best plan of action.
| Challenge | Signs |
|---|---|
| Cracked exhaust manifolds | Loud exhaust leak, lack of energy, decreased gasoline financial system |
| Warped cylinder heads | Overheating, decreased energy, tough idle |
| Valve seat recession | Noisy valvetrain, elevated oil consumption, decreased gasoline financial system |
| Consumption manifold gasket leaks | Vacuum leak, coolant leaks, rich-running engine |
| Head bolt gap stripping | Noisy engine, decreased energy, tough idle |
The Historical past and Evolution of 350 Chevy Heads
7. Efficiency Heads: The Final Improve
For these searching for the last word efficiency enhance for his or her 350 Chevy engine, aftermarket efficiency heads are the best way to go. These heads are designed with bigger valves, optimized port shapes, and improved combustion chamber designs to extend airflow and maximize energy output. Efficiency heads are available in numerous configurations, every tailor-made to particular efficiency targets and engine modifications. Some common choices embody:
| Head Sort | Valve Dimension | Port Form | Combustion Chamber |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum Professional Topline | 2.02″/1.60″ | Straight | 64cc |
| Trick Circulate Twisted Wedge | 2.05″/1.60″ | Twisted Oval | 62cc |
| Edelbrock Performer RPM | 2.02″/1.60″ | D-Port | 64cc |
| Dart Professional 1 | 2.08″/1.60″ | Oval | 58cc |
Efficiency heads supply important energy positive factors, however they arrive at the next price and require extra modifications to the engine, reminiscent of camshaft and consumption manifold upgrades, to totally unleash their potential. Correct tuning can also be essential to make sure optimum efficiency and reliability.
Skilled Suggestions for Choosing the Greatest 350 Chevy Head
8. Contemplating Chamber Quantity
Chamber quantity performs a vital function in figuring out the engine’s compression ratio. The next compression ratio will increase energy and effectivity however can result in detonation points if not correctly managed.
Combustion Chamber Design
Chamber design enormously impacts combustion effectivity. Totally different heads function various swirl or tumble patterns that promote optimum gasoline mixing and flame propagation. Matching the chamber design to the supposed engine setup and gasoline sort optimizes combustion and efficiency.
Valve Dimension and Placement
Bigger and optimized valve sizes permit for better airflow and enhance engine respiratory. The position of the valves inside the chamber can affect airflow dynamics and combustion effectivity. Correct valve positioning ensures optimum airflow and minimizes shrouding, leading to improved energy output.
Materials and Building High quality
Head materials and building high quality straight impression sturdiness and efficiency. Forged iron heads supply wonderful power and sturdiness, whereas aluminum heads present weight financial savings and higher warmth dissipation. The standard of casting, machining, and meeting methods ensures correct fitment, sealing, and total efficiency.
Avoiding Widespread Pitfalls When Selecting a 350 Chevy Head
9. Contemplate the Consumption and Exhaust Port Form
The consumption and exhaust port form considerably impacts engine efficiency. Totally different port designs can have an effect on circulate traits, combination distribution, and air velocity. Match the port form of the top to your particular engine construct and targets.
Elements to Contemplate:
| Port Form Traits | Results |
|---|---|
| Straight ports | Excessive circulate potential, improved low-end torque |
| Twisted ports | Improved air distribution, elevated peak energy |
| Raised ports | Elevated valve raise potential, improved high-RPM efficiency |
| Rectangular ports | Good for giant displacement engines, broad energy band |
| Oval ports | Improved airflow, can help increased RPM |
- Circulate capability: The port space determines the utmost quantity of air that may circulate via the top. A bigger port permits for extra airflow and better energy potential.
- Port velocity: The port’s form and size impression the air’s velocity. Increased velocity helps stop gasoline puddling and improves combustion effectivity.
- Combination distribution: The port ought to promote an excellent distribution of air and gasoline to every cylinder. This ensures optimum combustion and balanced efficiency.
- Air attachment: The port ought to encourage air to remain hooked up to the cylinder wall because it enters, which helps enhance airflow and energy output.
10. Vortec Heads
The Vortec heads, launched in 1996, had been a significant improve over the earlier TBI heads. They featured bigger consumption and exhaust valves, a revised combustion chamber design, and improved airflow. These heads had been used on all GM small-block V8 engines from 1996 to 2002, and so they stay common with efficiency fans immediately.
Professionals:
- Elevated energy and torque
- Improved gasoline financial system
- Diminished emissions
- Straightforward to search out and inexpensive
Cons:
- Not essentially the most optimum design for high-performance purposes
- Could require some modifications to put in on older engines
Compatibility:
| Engine | Vortec Heads |
|---|---|
| 1996-2002 GM Small-Block V8 | Sure |
| Pre-1996 GM Small-Block V8 | Requires modifications |
Efficiency Positive aspects:
| Software | Energy Enhance | Torque Enhance |
|---|---|---|
| Inventory Vortec engine | 15-25 hp | 15-25 lb-ft |
| Modified Vortec engine | 40-60 hp | 40-60 lb-ft |
350 Chevy Heads: The Greatest and the Worst
The small block Chevy engine is without doubt one of the hottest and versatile engines ever made. It has been utilized in all the things from basic muscle automobiles to fashionable efficiency autos. One of the necessary elements of any engine is the cylinder head. The cylinder head is chargeable for sealing the combustion chamber and controlling the circulate of air and gasoline into and out of the engine. There are various various kinds of cylinder heads obtainable for the small block Chevy, and every one has its personal benefits and drawbacks.
A number of the greatest 350 Chevy heads embody:
- Vortec heads: These heads had been developed by GM within the late Eighties and early Nineties. They function a swirl-port design that helps to enhance air circulate and combustion effectivity. Vortec heads can be found in each aluminum and iron variations.
- Bowtie heads: These heads had been developed by GM within the early 2000s. They function an oblong port design that’s much like the ports discovered on LS engines. Bowtie heads can be found in each aluminum and iron variations.
- Edelbrock heads: Edelbrock is a number one producer of aftermarket cylinder heads. They provide all kinds of heads for the small block Chevy, together with heads designed for avenue efficiency, drag racing, and oval monitor racing.
A number of the worst 350 Chevy heads embody:
- Pre-Vortec heads: These heads had been used on small block Chevy engines from the Fifties to the late Eighties. They function a dated design that doesn’t circulate air or gasoline very effectively. Pre-Vortec heads are usually not beneficial for efficiency purposes.
- Iron heads with small valves: Iron heads are usually heavier than aluminum heads, and they don’t conduct warmth as effectively. Small valves can limit air circulate and horsepower. Iron heads with small valves are usually not beneficial for efficiency purposes.
- Cracked heads: Cracked heads could cause a wide range of issues, together with coolant leaks, oil leaks, and combustion issues. Cracked heads must be repaired or changed as quickly as doable.
Individuals Additionally Ask About 350 Chevy Heads: Greatest and Worst
What are one of the best 350 Chevy heads for avenue efficiency?
The very best 350 Chevy heads for avenue efficiency are the Vortec heads. They provide a very good steadiness of airflow, combustion effectivity, and sturdiness.
What are one of the best 350 Chevy heads for drag racing?
The very best 350 Chevy heads for drag racing are the Bowtie heads. They provide wonderful airflow and combustion effectivity, and they’re obtainable in a wide range of port sizes to fulfill the wants of various drag racing purposes.
What are the worst 350 Chevy heads?
The worst 350 Chevy heads are the pre-Vortec heads. They provide poor airflow and combustion effectivity, and they aren’t beneficial for efficiency purposes.
How can I establish 350 Chevy heads?
There are a number of methods to establish 350 Chevy heads. A method is to search for the casting numbers. The casting numbers are situated on the highest of the heads, between the valve covers. One other strategy to establish 350 Chevy heads is to have a look at the ports. The ports on 350 Chevy heads are usually rectangular.
