FYI I bought a GEN 1 Chevy short block w/flat tops and threw on a set of vortec heads, edelbrock performer eps vortec intake, and a 725 holley. I just got my engine back from the dyno yesterday and it's making 372 hp at 5100 rpm and 422# tq at 4100. The amazing thing is that the torque curve is almost flat from 414# @ 3600 to 400# @ 4900! I wish I knew what it was at 2200 rpm.
The vortec heads have a smaller combustion chamber which means higher compression. This is a problem if you're trying to keep yours around the "optimal" street motor 9.5/1. I have about 10/1 compression which means I have to run 91 octane and also run a distributor with an adjustable ignition timing curve to avoid the ping. I don't mind the premium fuel cuz I'd rather not run ethanol fuel anyways and we have non ethanol 91 here in MN.
Anyways, the stock vortec block and heads are the best combo for an under 400hp (engine in my book). They had 9.4/1 compression(mild dish), one piece seals, and best of all, a roller cam. My dyno guy builds and sells them all day long with moderate cam and new intake and they are running over 390hp. I think he gets just under $4000 for them, too, when you could put one together, with a little help, for less than half of that.
If you know anyone who can help you put an engine together, that has all the micrometers and such, DO IT! It's alot of fun and you will be glad you did.
Have fun
The vortec heads have a smaller combustion chamber which means higher compression. This is a problem if you're trying to keep yours around the "optimal" street motor 9.5/1. I have about 10/1 compression which means I have to run 91 octane and also run a distributor with an adjustable ignition timing curve to avoid the ping. I don't mind the premium fuel cuz I'd rather not run ethanol fuel anyways and we have non ethanol 91 here in MN.
Anyways, the stock vortec block and heads are the best combo for an under 400hp (engine in my book). They had 9.4/1 compression(mild dish), one piece seals, and best of all, a roller cam. My dyno guy builds and sells them all day long with moderate cam and new intake and they are running over 390hp. I think he gets just under $4000 for them, too, when you could put one together, with a little help, for less than half of that.
If you know anyone who can help you put an engine together, that has all the micrometers and such, DO IT! It's alot of fun and you will be glad you did.
Have fun
