Switching to Vortec Heads? Watch before you buy

[@majoraslayer64]

Thanks for posting this video, it saved me from accidentally picking up 305 heads for my 350.

[@MrJose123704]

Good thing Chevy makes these brand new

[@Texassince1836]

They do, BUT if you can pick up a good set of used castings cheap you can have em rebuilt, milled for higher compression, and put your choice of springs on for less than a new set

[@jamalcole1985]

@@Texassince1836 great idea. How much you think that will cost?

[@Texassince1836]

@@jamalcole1985 machine shop costs vary. My local machine shop runs $180 to clean, pressure check, mill, and do a valve Job on a pair. Add in ~$150 for springs and you're still under the cost of 1 new Vortec head. If you can pick up a used set cheap it works. If someone wants $400 for a used set of Vortecs that will eat up all the savings

[@prevost8686]

@@Texassince1836 At least 80% of used Vortec heads will be scrap due to cracks.

[@Texassince1836]

@@prevost8686 you're a little high on your estimate, Ive seen less than 1 in 4 being cracked

[@thevortec983]

Thanks for this video, I'm just about to get a reman set of vortecs from the parts store to put on my carbed 1987 350.

[@cuttersperformance]

Awesome man! Be sure to check out my vortec porting videos coming up

[@BDauto86]

Good video. I have a really nice set of 906 heads, came off a 99 tahoe I have. I didn't learn untill later they can work so well on small blocks. I'm gonna clean them up well and double check for cracks. Thanks for sharing

[@cuttersperformance]

You won't be disappointed! They work quite well Race on!

[@shadowopsairman1583]

Need a different intake

[@blownaway4371]

If strapped for cash, you can boil them in purple power or simple green, and when you pull them out, you have to look them over closely and quick because the cracks will hold water, and show themselves until the water evaporates. B U T !. the best way is to magnifluxed them. Remember, to be "magged" the ferrous metal needs to be as CLEAN as possible.

[@billholder9665]

Bought these and Gt40 / GT40P heads by the dozen dirt cheap during Cash 4 Clunkers down here in the Fractured States of Anarchy. Finally sold off my last set of Ps a year ago. my 67 Chevelle runs a set of 906s. I have one more set on the shelf that I plan to port like yours and build a nice little roller stroker.

[@davidcallahan5157]

Yep better get them cheep most in the wrecking yards are cracked! But when you get good one they do work well!

[@timothykeith1367]

Most are cracked in ways which aren't easy to detect when they are pulled. Some can be repaired but finding a shop that can repair them isn't easy. I've never heard of a Vortec head actually leaking.

[@shadowopsairman1583]

706 vs 862 on 4.8/5.3. Wiki it. If you get 5.0 heads just port them. Also get thick deck units

[@briang4470]

I know it's not ideal and not recommended for a customer car but I have seen and personally used vortec heads that had the vertical crack in between the center 2 cylinders with zero issues, as long as there are no cracks in the chambers it should be fine, if your on a budget and cant afford expensive heads and it's for your self I would give a set with the vertical crack a shot that crack is only in the cooling side and doesnt affect any of the chambers or into the oil. I only say this because 99.99% of ones in a junkyard will have atleast the 1 vertical crack in between the center 2 cylinders.

[@ritchschut1997]

One common mistake I see people making ALL the time. Just because you have a center bolt valve cover does NOT mean that you have a vortec head! While the OP eluded to it, always figure out what gross valve lift your intended cam and rocker arm combo will yield. Stock vortec heads generally will only allow for about .430" of so of gross valve lift.

[@darrellsomers5427]

Correct they have what they call a saw tooth pattern on the front of the head 3 bumps but there a thin wall casting do not over heat this head or they will crack

[@brockstarg2296]

You can get offset keepers that will allow you to run .050 more lift. You have to upgrade to ls1 or ls6 valve springs.

[@ralfie8801]

When you upgrade springs and retainers for use with a bigger cam, you also need to have the valve guides trimmed for clearance when the valves are open..

[@cuttersperformance]

Unless your are using beehive springs. You can get up to .580 lift with the proper springs, seals, reatiners and offset keepers without cutting down guides at all

[@ralfie8801]

PISS-CUTTER Performance OK, it's been a while since I messed with one, I put the GM Hot Cam Kit in one years ago and I'm pretty sure I had to have that done with that kit. Thanks!

[@cuttersperformance]

@@ralfie8801 its common practice to cut the guides but its not necessary if using proper spring kit

[@Texassince1836]

The factory retainers have alot of extra metal on the bottom. Comp cams have retainers that clear 0.525 lift easy with no cutting to the head.

[@MrBubbahunt9]

@@Texassince1836 having all that extra meat allows for machining .100 off the bottom of the retainer, then there good for .525 or so lift...just another inexpensive way to do it...

[@frostyz2851]

A few days ago I bought a set of JEGS brand vortecs new on sale. Was only $700 for brand new fully assembled heads and are specd the same as GM vortecs except these come with screw in studs. For $700 brand new that was pretty hard to beat. A good port job and better springs and I think they can be a great set of heads for my stroker I'm building

[@cuttersperformance]

Ive been planning on getting a set to do a review on them. Alot of guys have been asking about them

[@frostyz2851]

It was either those or Summit vortecs. Summit ones seemed a little odd especially around the intake runners and no where did it mention where they were made. JEGS only had 2 reviews on their heads but they appeared to look closer to the actual GM casting and USA made confirmed

[@joshuaatkins5197]

​@@frostyz2851I went with the summit ones. Worked just fine for me. Though I didn't care for the summit engraving on the front of the heads. It was easier to buy these than to find good shape stock replacements.

[@peggyparrow2059]

Mike the vortecs you are talking about are casting number 062, the single hump heads are casting number 906 .

[@gainerman]

Straight edge across the tops of the valve tips ,tulip intake can mean a valve seat that has issues. Wet sand the surface ,you will find the cracks . Ones at the bolt holes between the center cylinders,can be sleeved ,kits are 29 bucks. I like the dually heads with the inconel exhaust seats ,they live ,on wakesurf boats slammed with ballast.

[@DeliriumElectric]

great info thanks. A vortec block, but with aftermarket heads seems like the way to go.

[@cuttersperformance]

If you can find a good seat of vortec heads they work great but the aftermarket ones are better for sure

[@DeliriumElectric]

@@cuttersperformance Just wondering could a cracked set be repaired, or would they be a bin job? Used ones are a bit of a gamble, but can be picked up for a bargain.

[@konnerkramer329]

@@DeliriumElectric it depends on where the crack is and how bad it is. The vortecs commonly crack by the center water jacket between the exhaust valves. But it is possible and not uncommon to crack on the exhaust seat themselves. If this us the case depending on how small the crack is the seat can be cut out and a new seat pressed in

[@DeliriumElectric]

@@konnerkramer329 thanks

[@peggyparrow2059]

Answer to mike, some vortecs have a cross bar with a single hump in the middle, looks similar to 300 hp. Heads but just 1 hump.

[@frigglebiscuit7484]

my 906s off a heavy 3/4 ton have cracks from the bolt hole into the hourglass style water jacket. im gonna run em anyway. the engine wasnt milky in the oil, and it never missed, and theres no signs of coolant burning. if it acts up, k&w block seal it is.

[@DynoPete]

There is a adapter available so you can use the old style perimeter bolt valve covers.

[@michaeldose2041]

Then you can get those nice leaky gaskets to go with it.

[@DynoPete]

@@michaeldose2041 You use Permatex Right Stuff for the adapter to head. and rubber gasket for valve cover.

[@michaeldose2041]

@@DynoPete Okay just not sure why someone has a fetish for the four bolt valve covers. The vortec manifold and valve covers were a major improvement to the old inherently leaky sbc set up. Sounds like some backward thinking there to me.

[@michaeldose2041]

@@1white732 and some old school leaks, just can't let go of that crap.

[@danielbuckner2167]

@@michaeldose2041 says somebody working with 20+ year old parts!🙄

[@williamklibinski3475]

Lol I was ready to find a cracked one I bought off of market place on 3 sets of heads. Bought the crack check spray you showed in another video and got lucky that none of them were cracked. However one set needs valve guides really bad unless they were built with different size values. All the heads were 062.

[@cuttersperformance]

Usually, the only time usually the guides get really loose is if they were cut down previously for high lift, and thats why I try to avoid cutting them of possible especially engines that will see lots of mileage

[@journeyquest1]

I keep reading people say, just buy a cheap set of Vortec heads. But what they dont tell you is you need a special intake, valve covers and rockers. No thanks. Sounds costly when i already have intakes and valve covers for old school heads.

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah thats exactly what i tell guys. Vortec heads are great but not worth it of you already have everything else for regular sbc heads. At that point it would be cheaper and less work to just get a better set of aftermarket heads

[@shaneshane1379]

I just bought a set of AFR 190cc vortec heads for my pick up trucks new engine. Yes, I'm really going overboard with this one.

[@cuttersperformance]

Good choice!

[@elprogramadeluisfigueroa1085]

You should also talk about the 059/520 Vortec heads which are from 305 engines. Such engines produced about 230HP factory and those heads are a fantastic upgrade for 305 engines.

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah I've been trying to get a decently price set of 305 vortec heads, I've actually never flowed a set. I want to compare them against the 906/062s

[@christianmotley262]

They don't have the general "kidney bean" layout like the 5.7 from what I've seen, still I'm curious about their possibilities.

[@cuttersperformance]

@@christianmotley262 that's true! Check out my flow video I have on them now

[@Tomcat71]

It's a waste of time installing 305 vortex heads even on A305 because even The TPI 305 we're making 235 horsepower without vortake heads

[@LuisAFigueroa]

@@Tomcat71 I'm keeping my Camaro's TBI system, with an Edelbrock AirGap Vortec Intake Manifold and a set of 059 Vortec Heads. As his new data shows, the 305 Vortec heads are way better than any other factory GM heads for SBC engines.

[@michaelhorsford403]

You can get a new set really reasonable ...

[@MarekBernert]

Also have to watch the fact that they dont have a by pass hole from the water pump. Have to run an external by pass from intake, to pump. If you run a thermostat, without a by pass, it will overheat. Very important .

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah I have a video about that

[@dynodon100]

Make sure you use narrow body rocker arms also.

[@cuttersperformance]

Good point! With the center bolt valve covers there can be clearance issues

[@dynodon100]

@@cuttersperformance I have been racing and building from 1968 , yes I am old.

[@cuttersperformance]

@@dynodon100 not old....experienced 👌 🏁

[@marinotarulli6568]

Maybe this will help Voodoo 10110701LK or 702, 703, or COMP Cams Xtreme 4x4 Camshafts 12-235-2- Everything is stock, for now, the rear end gear 3.73 limited-slip.More HP from Cam.

[@cuttersperformance]

I think that voodoo cam is for a bb chevy But I think your on track for a good mild cam with the 12-235-2

[@sc358.]

I have a Voodoo. Put it in the first engine I ever built 15 1/2 years ago that still runs today. Cool thing is you can call them up and have them put it on a different LCA than the 110 they normally come on. 350s usually like 108, 383s 106 (general rule of thumb, real aggressive cams, angle milled or real high cr changes it but for the street those work well).

[@mikeholguin84]

Biggest way to tell you have a vortec is the sawtooth that's on the side of the head. Look for that sawtooth, then pull the valve covers. You can easily look at the back of the block to see if it's a 5.7 or 5.0L engine. But that sawtooth is what you always wanna look for when youre digging through the yards

[@gmcman355crazy]

906 vortecs dont have the saw tooth they have a single hump

[@mikeholguin84]

@@gmcman355crazy you might wanna double check that. I have a set of both 906 and 062's sitting right in front of me both with sawtooths on them. If anything youre probably referring to the 1st generation vortecs (which have totally different casting numbers starting with 3) or some kind of marine head.

[@davidcollis4758]

Not only Vortec heads have center bolt valve covers. I have an '87 and '95 Chevy P/U and they are not Vortec and they have center bolt valve covers. I would go with aftermarket heads if I were to replace them. Thanks for the video.

[@cuttersperformance]

This is correct! What gives away the vortec heads are the 8 vertical intake bolts as mentioned in the video Don't be fooled by the pre 96 TBI heads, they are not good for performance that's for sure!

[@davidcollis4758]

@@cuttersperformance Trust me I know. My trucks are just for hauling stuff and occasionally driving to and from work. The performance of the '95 is not bad. The '87 not so much. 1987 was the first year and 1995 was the last year for TBI. I'm 60 now and am not worried about racing. I have a 1968 Olds Cutlass for spirited driving. Take care Buddy.

[@frizz7.727]

the exhaust ports are raised from the center line of the bolt holes also

[@Vanchero1955]

I plan on going junkyarding for a pair of Vortec Heads for my old school smal block my question is do i use the push rods from the Vortec engine or do i use what i got thanks for any info i just subscribed!

[@cuttersperformance]

A little tip for searching the junk yard. Bring a gasket scrapper and brake clean so you can look for cracks in the head surface prior to buying the heads. If you go to my channel you will see a video talking about vortec cracks. The pushrod used will be your old ones (or similar length) the vortec push rods will be too short

[@Vanchero1955]

@@cuttersperformance Cool thank you so much for the reply!

[@Vanchero1955]

@@cuttersperformance What head gaskets do you like running? Do you have a part number?

[@neilmerrifield9633]

Very informative! I will be doing a 350 Vortec swap in a 05 Silverado, currently with a 4.3. The Vortec 350 has some miles on it, so now I know what to look for. Also watched your other vids on screw in studs, offset retainers, and bee hive springs. Old school SBC guy, this is my first Vortec. Thanks, really enjoyed these videos.

[@cuttersperformance]

Thanks brother! Feel free to ask if you have any questions and be sure to Subscribe to the channel for more vortec videos

[@robertries7774]

Why would you put an old Vortec in a 05 when you can get. 5.3LS and make a lot more power per dollar?

[@neilmerrifield9633]

@@robertries7774 Not building a race truck, and don't like computers. Truck has a NV 3500, I'll be running a carb and GM HEI distributor. Can do away with ECM, evap canister, O2sensors, cats, ABS, all that BS.

[@johnbehneman1546]

Great video and education

[@keithdawe4866]

Great information..thank you for taking the time to make the video

[@Cunnilingusaurus]

Do I need a particular length push rod or will the ones in my Gen 1 350 now work?

[@illuminancecrt8930]

If they DO have a crack, are they junk, or can a machine shop fix that? Thank you for another great video.

[@kennethrand1032]

The L30 Vortec head still flows around 220 CFM I flow tested a pair before doing a 305 build but I wouldn't use them on a 350 compression would be too high

[@cuttersperformance]

That is correct! Did a video comparing them kzbin.info/www/bejne/p6qcYZWFeLmjoK8

[@kennethrand1032]

@@cuttersperformance yeah I put L30 heads on my LB9 in my 86 trans am with a cam and stealth ram I made over 290HP

[@cuttersperformance]

Wheel hp?

[@kennethrand1032]

@@cuttersperformance yeah but everything was new a T-56 manual transmission and 3.70 gears in a 9-bolt

[@cuttersperformance]

@@kennethrand1032 damn thats pretty good for a 305 man

[@jeffyoung2089]

Thanks!

[@ramie-uz9xi]

Spent the $2000 on a set of Brodix IK . $2200 for the top end kit . They flow better , aluminum , you know they aren’t cracked . Seems like a no brainer to me .

[@bobvomhof5699]

Yah 2000 instead of 200 for a little bit more flow, total no brainer 😂

[@ramie-uz9xi]

@@bobvomhof5699 guess I didn’t get my point across . I don’t think you could even put a set of heads on for $200 if someone gave you the heads . Oil change and filter , head gaskets , valve cover gaskets , intake gasket . Gasket sealer . ?? Antifreeze.? Probably missed something else . Those LS heads are pretty notorious for cracking . I know I wouldn’t think of putting a set on another engine without having them surfaced and checked out . What you gonna do if they are cracked . Go spend another $200 hoping to get another set then another 2-3 hundred on gaskets ? Unless a fella was the kind to just slap anything together ? I’d venture to say that a man wouldn’t do a head swap in the yard with junk yard heads at $200 for any less than $700-$800 including the machine work ,providing they did it right. And still …. You got an old set of iron heads . As for me .. even compared to $200 a wing and a prayer ? I’ll drop an extra $1-2,000 for peace of mind . We all have our priorities I guess . Little better flow , little less weight , little better cooling , little more peace of mind .. #BRODIX 😎

[@88classic]

Have a question ? Do you think this set up would be good? Forged flat top piston s with Vortec Top End Package for Small Block Chevy SKU # 555-514175 Xtreme Energy 268H Hydraulic Flat Tappet Camshaft Complete Kit Lift: .477"/.480" Duration: 268°/280° RPM Range: 1800-5800 SKU # 249-K12-26 .. from jegs I'm a rookie / new kid in school 🤓 lol ,I don't know much about engines im just trying to get around 3⁰⁰-3⁵⁰ hp..

[@cuttersperformance]

You can easily hit 300 hp with that. A very basic vortec build with a very mild cam will make 300hp+ / 400ftlbs with only 9.3:1 compression. I have a video coming about one I installed this week

[@Mr.BigweldNBTX]

Great video, lots of valuable info !

[@cuttersperformance]

Thanks for the positive feedback!

[@Mr.BigweldNBTX]

@@cuttersperformance Do you sell the ones you remanufacture? email me if you do [e-mail]

[@davidsummers2616]

Can you Swop the other Way. Take the vortec Heads off 1997 350 Vortec Engine And use Standerd 1991 350 Head so you can use 97 engine in a 91 TBI system

[@justsomeguy88]

Spark plug recommendations? So many people say different things on the right plugs for these heads.

[@cuttersperformance]

Excellent question! This is something that I will be making a upcoming video about to clear up some confusion I use NGK-TR55 gapped at .040 (most of the time) I've had good luck with these on many builds

[@justsomeguy88]

@@cuttersperformance solid. Appreciate it. I'll keep an eye out for the video 👀

[@cuttersperformance]

Video is up if you haven't seen it yet Cheers!

[@justsomeguy88]

@@cuttersperformance I did and already have a set of TR55GPs on the way to try out! Thanks!

[@jamesjamison9880]

Champion plugs are usually the best for vortech heads, perferably from a push lawn mower.

[@liftedburblife]

I find them 4 out of 3 cracked 062 they split also crack between 4-6 passenger side usually and it only takes a stuck closed thermostat to destroy the head because the metal is so trash

[@Snailmailtrucker]

4 out of 3 huh ...those must be real thin castings !

[@Texassince1836]

Stuck closed thermostats will destroy any motor.

[@randyturner6111]

Late to the party here, but I’m putting a set from Jegs on my old TBI 350. What I’m wondering about is pushrod length. Will the pushrods from the TBI motor work? It’s not the roller setup it’s the regular hydraulic. I’m just interested in better flow than what I have. Don’t care about going bigger on lift right now.

[@cuttersperformance]

They should be pretty close to stock length but youll want to check once the heads are bolted on

[@63Imp283]

What Vortec head would be the best for my 283? Love your content!

[@cuttersperformance]

If it was me I would go with a 305 Vortec head. The smaller valves are well suited to the smaller bore, and the smaller combustion chamber of the 305 is better for keeping the compression up on a 283. A 10:1 283 with vortec heads and a decent cam would be a great combo 👌 👍 I have some 305 vortec head flow videos coming up! Cheers!

[@63Imp283]

@@cuttersperformance 520 and 059 after reading some great comments, thanks

[@mercury710]

Hi- i liked your great video . Could you please help me with some questions: i have A-stock original 1992 - 350 ( 5.7 lt ) tbi engine ( chevy blazer full size ) , i want to add some power by doing that upgrade of vortec heads- which kind of after market intake manifold shall i buy in order to connect back my stock TBI to the new heads . What else you recommend to change in order to get more horsepower ( I thought of those two changes - intake manifold and vortec heads ) How many extra horsepower i may get from that upgrade - do i need the 7.4 lt TBI unit or just switch to the 7.4 ( 454 ) bigger injectors or to stay with my stock 5.7 tbi . Do i need to replace the fuel pump to the 96 - 99 units ? How many new horse power i may get in my engine ( it is original rated as is at 215 hp ) - is that changes with the tbi injection systems can gain + 30 horsepower ( to reach to 245 h-p ) ? Your full answer will be very appreciate . Rgds Guy ( from israel )

[@cuttersperformance]

So first off vortec will be a huge improvement over the stock swirl port heads that you have now. But if you really need to upgrade the camshaft to utilize the vortecs. They have adapters plate that bolt onto a carb spread bore intake to adapt to TBI. That leads me to the next thing....the stock 5.7 tbi fuel injection is good for maybe 275hp and not sure about the 454 version. But either way if not tuned correctly (ECM flashed) it will run poorly and make any mod you made basically useless If you looking for a decent power upgrade it may be worth also considering aftermarket fuel injection. I went holley sniper with a air gap intake on my daily truck and it was a huge improvement 👌

[@mercury710]

@@cuttersperformance - so maybe i shall go on the replacing the complete old weak engine to a 96 and later 5.7 GM original vortec ..and than install a new intake manifold conected to the holly sniper , thanks alot my friend 🙏🏽

[@jeffcathline5431]

I'm looking for a project to put it in probably a car or 2 wheel drive pickup.

[@NextEraCustoms]

do you think i can install this kit just re drill the intake bolt pattern ? FiTech 38301 Ultra Ram SBC EFI. i have 1998 vortec 5.7l and really wanted the fuel injection kit EFI kit with LS intake style not carb style?

[@Motor-City-Mike]

Completely forgot about having to cut the top of the guides for non - stock, higher lift cams.

[@chinstrap5233]

So far I've gotten 3 906 and 2 062 heads and 4 out of 5 have the small cracks between the center bolt hole and water jacket windows. So bummed.

[@briang4470]

I would run them if it's for yourself, I have personally used atleast 6 different sets of heads on multiple engines that had the center crack that runs vertically in the center with zero issues. Yes for a customer build it's not recommended but 99% of the vortec heads out there are that way and if there are no other cracks that go into the chamber you will be 100% fine. The vertical cracks in the center are only on the coolant side and do not protrude into the chamber, if the heads are flat, wire wheel the chambers clean and pull all the valves and check for cracks in the chambers and seats and if there are no other cracks you will be good to go.

[@chinstrap5233]

@@briang4470 thanks for the reply Brian. I was gonna angry put them on and say fuck it. Now I'll have some beers and relax while doing it. They're all for my builds. Seen another 080 long block for sale cheap and was like why would I, but I'll probably go pick it up now also.

[@briang4470]

@@chinstrap5233 yeah man dont be discouraged by the little crack, it is only on the cooling side and will not enter any of the cylinders or the oil. 99% of perfectly fine running vortec motors will have that crack when you pull the heads, I have seen it so many times that it doesnt even bother me anymore, just pull all the valves and check the exhaust seats and ports really good because that is probally the 2nd most common spots for cracks but 9times out of 10 if they are cracked you will see it and usually the port will be rusty but if it has dry carbon and the seats are crack free, just stick em on there and let it roll.

[@kevinfultz1908]

You can take a plumbers torch to them and heat em up. That makes them expand and let's you know if they're cracked or not. Just fyi 😉

[@8luggarage]

How much horsepower would i gain roughly by taking the vortec heads off my 350 and getting aluminum aftermarket heads? Just a rough estimate

[@cuttersperformance]

With a stock cam maybe abit. The difference would be more if it had a larger cam. It is easily 20 to 50hp depending on the setup

[@8luggarage]

@@cuttersperformance yeah I am also putting a hotter cam in. Don't know what cam yet. But definitely a cam. I'd like to be in the 450 hp range. 500 would be great. But I'd be happy with 450

[@michaelnelson9140]

Hello. So these heads bolt right up to a, say, 72 350 sb? Reason I ask, is that I have one completely rebuilt, but lacking heads. And I know where there is a pair of 5.7 vortex heads from a 97. So I will need an intake and exhaust set up. Rocker arms, how about pushrods?

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah they can bolt onto a older block Intake, self aligning rocker arms needed Stock pushrod length should work fine but you will need to check the pattern once they are bolted on Check out some of my other vortec videos and they should answer some more of your questions Cheers!

[@thehighlife1320]

The combustion chambers and intake ports for the L30 heads; are similar to the L03 305 heads. Not worth even porting them.

[@kevinlawrence9629]

Don't they have a adapter plate for the different ways that they bolt up, because one bolts up on a angle and one vertical

[@ypop417]

Did any of the Vortec heads come with angel plugs?

[@spinnerjays5389]

Vortec 906 heads have straight plugs

[@horizonfluidpower]

Is there an aftermarket head that’s equivalent to these heads, swing how is hit or miss with the junkyard sets? Thanks for the video

[@cuttersperformance]

Eq, jegs and summit and a few others all have their own versions of vortecs Often with screw in studs installed already 👍

[@bobhoffman5581]

Chevy Performance sells a steel Bowtie Vortec; the deck of the head is thicker, screw in rocker studs, and have a 2.00 inch intake valve, like the "fast burn" Chevy heads. Better flow, and in a street application, you won't lose as much bottom end torque as you would with a 2.02 valve head. Any "stock" Vortec heads will have the thinner deck, and are susceptible to the issues pointed out in the video. 1.94 intake valve heads are sufficient, I believe, but with the right cam, you would make better (more) power, especially in mid range, with the BowTies--air flow equals horsepower, doesn't it? lol

[@boxerfan2]

When putting vortec heads on older blocks do you use the vortec push rods? or is the push rods the same size as older engines?

[@cuttersperformance]

The push rod length should be near your stock 7.800 on older flat tappet cam even with vortecs. A OE roller cam sbc (or vortec) use a 7.200 pushrod It's always a good idea to check pushrod length once the heads are on

[@boxerfan2]

@@cuttersperformance Ok. Thanks.

[@johncalhoun8011]

Are Aluminum Heads better?

[@214deleon4]

So you can use self aligning rockers with screw in studs? And ls6 springs? Just asking im looking into getting vortec heads and replacing the 193 heads on my 95 5.7

[@ray9734]

Can you have them machined for guide plates instead of self aligning rocker arms?

[@cuttersperformance]

Yes you can!

[@Tomcat71]

Bigger valves in These heads are a waste of time unless you unshroud the valve in the combustion chamber then you really have to know what you're doing when you're doing that because you can fuck up the flow Really easy

[@cuttersperformance]

I like to do a 1.6 exhaust valve and leave the 1.94 valves on vortecs. There are gains going to a larger intake valve but porting is key. The issue is that vortecs have some pretty thin areas in the casting that you can blow through trying to utilize the larger intake valve. But a 1.6 exhauat valve with even just a bowl blend has a great increase in flow. Adding th 1.6 without blending the bowl will increase flow under .400 lift but hurt it by 10 to 20 cfm past that

[@mikeholley4488]

i'm a year late but it's worth a try.summit has vortec heads for 363$ complete. are the summit heads as good as the gm ones?

[@BobRochon]

I rebuilt my old 350 .030 over flat top pistons with vortec heads new edelbrock vortec intake. It’s does works great. But Im having a problem with my distributor leaking oil at the base have replaced the gasket and tightened down it’s nice and tight. But for some reason it leaks after running the engine up into high rpm just wondering if you would have any suggestions ?

[@cuttersperformance]

Few things to check if you have oil leaking around the base of the distributor. First obviously make sure your gasket is ok as im sure you already have done that its probably not that. If the block/heads have been deck there is a chance your distributor is bottomed out not allowing it to squeeze down on the gasket properly. The simple fix for that is to just use two gaskets on the base of the distributor to shim it up and help it seal

[@herbertedgell6578]

What needs modified to put a set on a 400 small block Chevy “steam holes” specifically?

[@cuttersperformance]

You must drill steam holes (use gasket as template) And you must have a coolant bypass. Check out my video on that I also might make a video on doing vortec heads for a 400 and what should be done to prevent cracking and hot spots

[@stickpd7885]

Aren't there aftermarket heads that copy the vortec combustion chamber. without the crack prone thin casting like the factory heads?

[@cuttersperformance]

Alot of aftermarket head manufacturers have copied the vortec design and improved them with thickener decks and larger runners/ports. GM did a great job with the vortec heads, improving from the LT1 head. If only they made the decks thicker haha

[@superduty4556]

If you're going aftermarket, there are better heads than a vortec copy.

[@JohnDoe-gz8dw]

Can fill the heads slightly to thicken the deck?

[@bobhoffman5581]

Chevy Performance Bow Tie Vortec heads---2.00" intake valves, thicker deck, screw in studs. Worth the $...

[@Geoduck.]

Having a problem hope someone can help me. I've installed rebuilt 059 casting Vortec 305 SBC heads on my 1985 C10 generation one 305 flat tappet cam engine. The heads have been decked

[@timothyirons1969]

I have an 88 Blazer with a tbi 350. Are the Vortec heads and Jegs Vortec head to tbi Intake manifold plug and play? Or is there anything else I need to have done? Only mods are headers and dual exhaust.

[@Roboticgladiator]

What's the typical junk yard price for a set of vortec heads?

[@cuttersperformance]

$100 to $400 per set

[@Snailmailtrucker]

About 6 weeks ago I bought a set from a guy who said he worked at a Pick a Part here in Oregon..he advertised a pair of 906 Vortec heads for $100.00. Turns out they were 062 Vortec heads...but I had driven 75 miles to buy them so I bought them even tho they were pretty dirty... I cleaned them up and they looked good...and the day before yesterday I took them to the local Automotive machine shop for Maga Flux and to have them Decked...they had no cracks and look perfect... I got lucky big time ! Heads $100.00 Maga Flux and Decked $180.00....$280.00 for a great set of SBChevy heads !

[@thedobermangang3503]

I GOT A 1990 K5 BLAZER 5.7 GETTING ENGING REBULD I GOT THE BLOCK 30 OVER AND I HAVE THE FACTORY SWIRL PORT HEADS ON THERE CAN I DO SOMETHING TO THEM HEADS TO MAKE THEM FLOW BETTER IM UPGRADING MY FUEL PUMP AND CHANGING MY PRESSURE REGULATOR SPRING IN MY TBI I GOT SOMEONE THAT GOING TO TUNE MY CHIP FOR ME AND IM PUTTING XE262H CAM IN IT AND I UP GRADED MY TORQUE CONVERTER TO 2200TO2400 STALL NOTHING TO BIG AND I GOT HEADERS ALLREADY ON IT AND GOT EDELBROCK INTAKE 3704 AND I HAVE 35X12 TIRES ON IT WITH 4.10 GEARS

[@cuttersperformance]

Awesome man! You would get alot more power buy switching out those swirl port heads. That's if its in the budget

[@okanaganroad3308]

question: Why should I buy Vortec heads if the crack?

[@thegenrl]

I have 98 vortec motor. Can I put 94 lt1 heads on it and can I use the 98 intake?

[@cuttersperformance]

No LT1 head not work on a traditional or vortec block. The lt1s have a reverse cooling system than a traditional SBC so the coolant ports in the heads are different. Also LT1s dont share the same intake bolt pattern as a vortec

[@thegenrl]

@@cuttersperformance thank you

[@mikebuckley5740]

That crack can be repaired with a brass sleeve and pennant

[@marinotarulli6568]

Nice Video! How about L69 Heads.

[@cuttersperformance]

The 416 heads aka "305 HO heads" are a ok head but they take some porting and a valve job just to flow almost as good as a completely stock vortec head. The vortecs also feature a much better combustion chamber

[@blownaway4371]

@@cuttersperformance I would LOVE to see a comparison of the 416's vs later Vortec 305's vs Speedmaster 59(?) cc heads on flow. Of course, this would be for the smaller gen1's, like 283, 307 etc. Side note. I self ported a pair of 062's on a .060 over 283. Took a picture from the bottom of the bore, and there didn't look like any horrible "shrouding" like most cry about. With a Comp 268 flatty Comp bee-hives, machined guides, china intake, TBI adapter, CHINA HEI, in my 95 chevy ext cab, long bed, NV4500, 2500/3.42 would've EATEN the "stock" 350 that came in it. PIG RICH (burn your eyes) at idle, but got 17-19 mpg hwy!! Pretty darn good for a 6000lb truck!! So, could you PLEASE do a comparison of you have the resources?? Thanks for the videos!

[@danielbuckner2167]

@@blownaway4371 what he said.

[@jimallkillings4440]

If I put the vortec heads on my 95 Chevy 350 would I have to change the intech

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah vortec intake bolt pattern is different than the TBI

[@jimallkillings4440]

@@cuttersperformance ok appreciate it

[@junior915hidalgo4]

What happens if i just put vortec heads that have 12 intake bolts to a old with tbi 350 block cause i just want plug and play due to i read on a old hot rod magazine that they are compatible?

[@cuttersperformance]

Vortec heads dont have 12 bolts. But you can buy a tbi intake that bolts to the vortec heads. Or you can use a carb vortec intake and get a tbi adapter

[@BROTHERSKEEPER777]

THE BEST WAY IS TO GET THEM OFF OF A MOTOR YOU SAW RUNNING. STOCK VALVES ARE JUNK GET SEVERE DUTY STAINLESS

[@joelpierce3940]

Will Vortex heads fit on a 1969 307 block? I am running double hump 461 heads now.

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah with a vortec intake aswell

[@Hot80s]

Thanks for the intake of fresh air. I got some horseshit 882's on my 35o. So I will have to hunt another intake for sure? My early prod Rpm air gap doesn't seal well anyways. My cam is lunati 290/300 465/485. Oh, headers my need to be replaced too? I got old longtubes. Can I I.D. the head by valve size, are the casting numbers the same even if one set was on a 305?

[@cuttersperformance]

You will notice a good difference with switching to vortecs over 882s. Yeah you will need a different intake for sure. Vortec heads with upgraded springs But your headers should work, just gotta make sure you have spark plug wire clearance. You want heads off a 350 vortec. 906 or 062 (last 3 digits) Check out my other vortec videos, should answer some of your questions too

[@prevost8686]

One out of four cracked? My local machinist says about 2 out of 8 are good.

[@whiplashmachine]

He has better luck than my customers then. 2 out of the last 18 heads I have inspected were good. And those two, were not even a pair or from same customer.

[@gettygarrettable]

Great vid

[@bcali2878]

Was looking for Vortecs for my 307, would you still recommend the Vortec heads off a 5.7 or would the 305 work better for the smaller motor?

[@cuttersperformance]

Either one will be an improvement but the 350 head isnt over sized for the 307 and its overall a better design (combustion chamber)

[@chevymuscletruck442]

So is it possible to run a gen 1 tbi intake and throttle body on the vortec heads?

[@cuttersperformance]

Intake bolt pattern is different

[@bobhoffman5581]

Chevy Performance sells an intake that's compatible with both...

[@Imvelo31]

Can I buy a rebuilt set from you. You seem to know what your talking about

[@johnknight2012]

I have a 1986 Trans Am 305 TPI which ones do I need?

[@mikeceli]

You mentioned the valve "Pop Test" but did not explain it. Please do.

[@cuttersperformance]

Go to my channel and check out the video on checking valve guides

[@mikeceli]

@@cuttersperformance I did, THANKS!! do you have any experience w/ "EngineQuest" , "Hybrid" heads? Their Chevy 350 units (CH350 )claim Vortec style chambers with older head style intake bolt pattern. They told me they do not fit, TPI, my application. BUT, their literature claims they replace "983" Chevy heads.

[@cuttersperformance]

They are probably saying that because there are actually 3 different sbc intake bolt pattern. -The old school standard pattern -87+ they changed the angle on the inner bolts (this is what your tpi intake is) -then the 8 bolt vortecs

[@bigc198387]

If I was going to buy new vortec heads or refurbished vortec heads. Which company should I buy them from?

[@cuttersperformance]

Check out EQ heads

[@thedobermangang3503]

VERY GOOD VIDEO

[@Jp-gc6bh]

So if I buy new heads and a manifold for my 95 tbi to convert to vortec I wouldn’t have any issue? Because I don’t plan on going to a junk and looking for used ones

[@cuttersperformance]

If you want to stick with the tbi you have two options Buy a tbi intake thats fits vortec heads or buy a carb intake and use a adapter. Then the ecm will need to be tuned to run properly

[@jeffcathline5431]

I have a 1998 5.7 with spun bearings it came out of my 2500 it has 120,000 miles. Is it worth rebuilding?

[@harveyhotpipes1]

All 2500 and 3500 series trucks should be 4 bolt blocks so as long as a main bearing didn't spin that's the block to build.

[@nathankerr3585]

Oh I have a few questions one being how big of a cam can I run I was told a procomp 280 magnum, I want something that will really thump heavy lobe if there’s something bigger and better is there a complete kit with valves springs and guides/ lifters pushrods and new retainers? I have vortex cams used no cracks that I ported and polished I wanna keep the tbi so I have to change intake. But will I need to increase injectors? Basically I wanna just cam swap heads and intake for now real budget I was going to carb swap everything but not in my budget any help??

[@cuttersperformance]

If you running a stock tbi unit youll have a hard time with a real lumpy cam even with tuning. Might be better to swap to carbs or aftermarket efi before you go to a bigger cam or at the same time

[@nathankerr3585]

@@cuttersperformance I thought so I just being cheap minded lol

[@SoI_Badguy]

Are most of the things in this video applicable to swapping a set of vortec heads onto a TBI 4.3?

[@austindoud273]

I'd say yes same thing basically

[@efrainleon414]

Can you put them on a 305 sbc?

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah

[@200horsepower]

Can I put this heads on 1980 corvette with stock l82 engine? Anyone ? Thanks!

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah but your stock intake won't wok. You'll need a vortec intake (8 bolt)

[@thomas-2804]

Do they just bolt on or what do you have to do to make them fit a 350 sbc

[@stevedriver1476]

brand new ones are cheap in America,, dont buy unknown greasy junk yard heads. steve in Australia

[@cuttersperformance]

Unfortunately nothing is cheap anymore lol

[@frigglebiscuit7484]

they also dont flow worth a shit. mexican vortecs are AWFUL. they dont flow anywhere near as nice as the canadian oem vortecs

[@creekwaternorthcarolina2526]

I have a 95 Chevrolet Tahoe with 5.7 tbi..I want to change the heads with vortec heads..can I do that and do I need to change my intake to carry my new tbi

[@cuttersperformance]

The vortecs have a different bolt pattern for the intake

[@jamesperry4424]

Looking for so.e knowledge on these 062 heads i just pulled from pick n pull. For so.e strange reason these heads literally have a stock "cross" like exhaust port.if you go on my fb you'll see. Has anyone ever seen vortec head like this.Stock casting, hasn't been worked😐

[@cuttersperformance]

If you want send me an email with pics [e-mail]

[@jaundpeloo]

Hi, how much hp its make on stock 350 tbi (stock flat cam and tapper, std pistón) with q-jet Carb? Can i swap vortec head with stock flat cam, tapper and pushrod?

[@cuttersperformance]

yes you can swap vortecs onto a tbi block. youll need a different intake though. Pushrods should be fine I actually have some tbi head porting videos coming up

[@truebornhixrecordsackraz4249]

Can you shave the head a little bit for more power or would that be a bad idea

[@cuttersperformance]

With vortec I only resurface enough to flatten them. The decks are already pretty thin

[@daltonpeterson21]

Have u heard of a vortex head on a 307 before

[@wreckanchor]

Who makes the best performing intake manifold for the Vortec heads?

[@cuttersperformance]

I'm a big fan of the Edelbrock RPM Air gap but the Summit racing brand air gap is very nice if you want to save a buck or two

[@Thundarr995]

Don't use the Summit Racing vortec manifold. It might not fit very good. And its made in China. My friend has one on his 383. Had to grind on it to get the valve covers to bolt all the way down. I'd get the Edelbrock. I've installed several. They usually fit pretty good.

[@cuttersperformance]

@@Thundarr995 o thats really weird I've use probably 3 or 4 of the summits air gaps on budget builds and they have been pretty good. I did try a professional products air gap once and the casting was terrible haha would not install on a customer's engine that's for sure

[@braleyshardwoodcustoms8584]

Victor junior by eldebrock

[@frigglebiscuit7484]

@@Thundarr995 i have the summit dual plane non airgap version for the vortec heads. it was on sale for $145. its super nice, and the ports are all aligned, unlike the other chinese ones.