In terms of 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 well-liked selection for lovers in the present day. Some of the vital parts of any engine is the cylinder head, and the Chevrolet small block has a lot of completely different head choices obtainable. Among the many hottest and well-respected are the 350 Chevy heads.
There are various the reason why 350 Chevy heads are so in style. First, they’re comparatively simple to search out and inexpensive. Second, they’re identified for his or her good efficiency, each by way of energy and gasoline financial system. Third, they’re comparatively simple to switch, making them a good selection for lovers who need 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 car. One other is that they are often tougher to seal, which may result in leaks.
General, 350 Chevy heads are a good selection for a wide range of functions. They provide good efficiency, are comparatively simple to search out and inexpensive, and are simple to switch. Nevertheless, they are often heavier than another head choices and might be tougher to seal. In the end, one of the best ways to decide on the fitting cylinder head on your engine is to think about your particular wants and objectives.
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 move, and a better compression ratio, they ship spectacular energy positive aspects 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 well-liked selection 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 move for elevated airflow
- Larger 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 provided 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 shortage of aftermarket assist. There are only a few efficiency upgrades obtainable for these heads, which makes it troublesome to enhance their efficiency.
Disadvantages of Vortec Heads:
| Drawback |
|---|
| Small consumption runners |
| Bathtub-shaped combustion chamber |
| Low compression ratio |
| Lack of aftermarket assist |
Resulting from these disadvantages, Vortec heads are greatest averted when constructing a efficiency 350 Chevy engine.
Figuring out the Proper 350 Chevy Head for Your Wants
Selecting the best 350 Chevy head on your engine can considerably influence efficiency. Contemplate the next elements:
Combustion Chamber Design
The combustion chamber form impacts the air-fuel combination and combustion effectivity. Widespread designs embrace:
- Open Chambers: Very 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 stability of airflow and velocity, appropriate for a variety of functions.
Valve Prepare Configuration
The valve prepare setup determines the quantity and association of valves, in addition to the camshaft’s operation. Choices embrace:
- 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: Fashionable design with 4 valves per cylinder and a high-flow consumption system, usually put in on GM LS engines.
Consumption and Exhaust Ports
The scale and form of the consumption and exhaust ports have an effect on airflow and energy output:
| Port Kind | Move Traits |
|---|---|
| Giant Ports | Elevated airflow capability for high-performance functions |
| 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 lowered consumption turbulence |
Evaluating Totally different 350 Chevy Head Configurations
In terms of selecting the best cylinder heads on your 350 Chevy engine, there are a variety of things to think about. These embrace the engine’s supposed use, the specified energy output, and the funds. That can assist you make an knowledgeable resolution, here is a comparability of a number of 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 might cut back engine efficiency.
Vortec Heads
Vortec heads are a well-liked selection for efficiency functions. They function a singular 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 good selection for road efficiency functions. They function a bigger consumption runner quantity than Vortec heads, which helps to enhance low-end torque. L98 heads are usually fabricated from iron.
AFR Heads
AFR heads are a high-performance aftermarket head that’s designed for racing functions. They function a lot of superior design options that assist to extend airflow and energy. AFR heads are usually fabricated from aluminum.
| Head Kind | 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 terms of upgrading the efficiency of your 350 Chevy engine, the most effective 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 will additionally enhance gasoline financial system and cut back emissions.
Improved Airflow
Probably the most vital good thing about 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
On account 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 potential to see positive aspects of as much as 50 horsepower and 75 lb-ft of torque.
Improved Gasoline Financial system
Whereas it could appear counterintuitive, putting in an aftermarket 350 Chevy head can really enhance gasoline financial system. It’s because the elevated airflow permits the engine to burn gasoline extra effectively. This may result in a discount in gasoline consumption of as much as 5%.
Diminished Emissions
One other good thing about upgrading to an aftermarket 350 Chevy head is lowered emissions. The improved airflow and combustion effectivity can result in a discount in dangerous emissions, akin to hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides.
Varieties 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 few of the hottest kinds of heads embrace:
| Head Kind | 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, lowered airflow |
| Vortec Heads | Improved airflow, elevated horsepower, lowered emissions | Costlier than conventional heads |
Widespread Points with 350 Chevy Heads
Cracked Exhaust Manifolds:
The exhaust manifolds on 350 Chevy heads are vulnerable to cracking, particularly across the No. 6 cylinder. That is because of the excessive warmth and stress positioned on the exhaust manifold flanges. Signs of a cracked exhaust manifold embrace 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 may result in a lack of compression, coolant leaks, and efficiency issues. Signs of warped cylinder heads embrace 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 the usage of an additive. This may result in a lack of compression, decreased energy, and a tough idle. Signs of valve seat recession embrace 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 may result in a lack of energy, decreased gasoline financial system, and a tough idle. Signs of an consumption manifold gasket leak embrace 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 may result in a lack of compression, coolant leaks, and efficiency issues. Signs of stripped head bolt holes embrace 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 significantly vulnerable 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 probably the most warmth from the exhaust manifold. The exhaust manifold on a 350 Chevy engine can be fabricated from forged iron, which is a brittle materials that’s vulnerable to cracking below stress.
The signs of a cracked exhaust manifold across the No. 6 cylinder embrace a loud exhaust leak, lack of energy, and decreased gasoline financial system. For those who suspect that your exhaust manifold is cracked, you may have it inspected by a mechanic. The mechanic will be capable of decide if the exhaust manifold is cracked and can suggest the perfect plan of action.
| Situation | 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 in search of the final word efficiency increase for his or her 350 Chevy engine, aftermarket efficiency heads are the way in which 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 varied configurations, every tailor-made to particular efficiency objectives and engine modifications. Some in style choices embrace:
| Head Kind | Valve Dimension | Port Form | Combustion Chamber |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum Professional Topline | 2.02″/1.60″ | Straight | 64cc |
| Trick Move 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 provide vital energy positive aspects, however they arrive at a better price and require extra modifications to the engine, akin to camshaft and consumption manifold upgrades, to completely unleash their potential. Correct tuning can be essential to make sure optimum efficiency and reliability.
Professional Ideas for Deciding on the Greatest 350 Chevy Head
8. Contemplating Chamber Quantity
Chamber quantity performs a vital function in figuring out the engine’s compression ratio. A better compression ratio will increase energy and effectivity however can result in detonation points if not correctly managed.
Combustion Chamber Design
Chamber design vastly 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 enable for better airflow and enhance engine respiration. The position of the valves throughout 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 Development High quality
Head materials and building high quality instantly influence sturdiness and efficiency. Forged iron heads provide wonderful energy and sturdiness, whereas aluminum heads present weight financial savings and higher warmth dissipation. The standard of casting, machining, and meeting strategies ensures correct fitment, sealing, and general 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 move traits, combination distribution, and air velocity. Match the port form of the top to your particular engine construct and objectives.
Elements to Contemplate:
| Port Form Traits | Results |
|---|---|
| Straight ports | Excessive move 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 assist increased RPM |
- Move capability: The port space determines the utmost quantity of air that may move by way of the top. A bigger port permits for extra airflow and better energy potential.
- Port velocity: The port’s form and size influence the air’s velocity. Larger velocity helps stop gasoline puddling and improves combustion effectivity.
- Combination distribution: The port ought to promote a fair 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 serious 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 in style with efficiency lovers in the present day.
Execs:
- Elevated energy and torque
- Improved gasoline financial system
- Diminished emissions
- Simple to search out and inexpensive
Cons:
- Not probably the most optimum design for high-performance functions
- 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:
| Utility | Energy Improve | Torque Improve |
|---|---|---|
| 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 among the hottest and versatile engines ever made. It has been utilized in all the things from basic muscle automobiles to fashionable efficiency autos. Some of the vital parts of any engine is the cylinder head. The cylinder head is answerable for sealing the combustion chamber and controlling the move 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 few of the greatest 350 Chevy heads embrace:
- Vortec heads: These heads had been developed by GM within the late Nineteen Eighties and early Nineties. They function a swirl-port design that helps to enhance air move 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 road efficiency, drag racing, and oval observe racing.
A few of the worst 350 Chevy heads embrace:
- Pre-Vortec heads: These heads had been used on small block Chevy engines from the Nineteen Fifties to the late Nineteen Eighties. They function a dated design that doesn’t move air or gasoline very nicely. Pre-Vortec heads should not beneficial for efficiency functions.
- Iron heads with small valves: Iron heads are usually heavier than aluminum heads, and they don’t conduct warmth as nicely. Small valves can limit air move and horsepower. Iron heads with small valves should not beneficial for efficiency functions.
- Cracked heads: Cracked heads may cause a wide range of issues, together with coolant leaks, oil leaks, and combustion issues. Cracked heads ought to be repaired or changed as quickly as potential.
Folks Additionally Ask About 350 Chevy Heads: Greatest and Worst
What are the perfect 350 Chevy heads for road efficiency?
The most effective 350 Chevy heads for road efficiency are the Vortec heads. They provide a very good stability of airflow, combustion effectivity, and sturdiness.
What are the perfect 350 Chevy heads for drag racing?
The most effective 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 satisfy the wants of various drag racing functions.
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 functions.
How can I determine 350 Chevy heads?
There are a number of methods to determine 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 determine 350 Chevy heads is to take a look at the ports. The ports on 350 Chevy heads are usually rectangular.
