$165 Amazon SBC Head vs Budget AFR Enforcer! (Flow Bench!)

[@rogerowens5669]

Dude I want to thank you for taking the torch on the older generation block the information you're putting out is spot-on, people are going to realize how valuable this knowledge is, thanks again your friend RDO

[@cuttersperformance]

Wow thanks Roger I really appreciate the positive feedback! Cheers Brother

[@docsmallblock6584]

Yes, so many people are all about them flow numbers, but that's just a small part of the story. Port velocity is even more critical when it comes right down to it!

[@AB-80X]

It's a combination of both.

[@jeffrykopis5468]

Like Smokey always said, "You don't race flow benches". He also said, "Only you can prevent forest fires".

[@johnsheetz6639]

Phone numbers are often make more power on the dyno but when it changes gears the port velocity gives way down with it bigger port

[@doctorwhodj]

More cc will take over at high rpm,,, port velocity becomes "less important"

[@msk3905]

this is 90s thinking all that matters is getting cfm into the chamber, which larger heads can. I've been running 195cc heads on 5.0L sbf and have yet to see a smaller high velocity head (like ported E7 head) outperform me in the 2,000-4,000 rpm range

[@markrich3271]

Multiple companies use these heads skip white , assualt racing , rcp ect. There's a big thread about them on the third gen forum buget assualt racing head. They actually look just like dart platinum heads too. My set has either the vortec or early version intake bolts . I had choice of angle or straight plug and with or with out steam holes when purchased. They cost allot more than 186$ in 2016. Solid head though. I port matched a 1266 gasket to my single plane efi intake. My heads are raised runner ports. I bought mine bare too. I lapped all my valves . I own a machine shop. In the tread I mention I put a set on a surface plate and belive they were flat with in .0004 ten thousandths . I've had my set on my gen 1 sbc 383 with a s488 turbo since 2016. No issues.

[@Ron_Masterjohn]

So then whose heads did you buy? What seller?

[@mikecondoluci53]

THOSE CHEAP HEADS FLOW PRETTY GOOD OUTA THE BOX, A LITTLE CLEAN UP AND A GOOD VALVE JOB,PORT MATCH AND THERE GOOD TO GO

[@charleslowe522]

If I had a use for them I would order a set in a minute. Interesting thing though, the heads found on the 4.3L v6 Vortec motor found in Chevy light duty trucks flow quite a bit out of the box and with a clean up will flow over 300 CFM easy and that's more that the aftermarktet heads found for a Grand National or the Buick Stage 2 heads. The heads from GM parts direct, are cheap. Only $168 for a pair, that is crazy and they are made with very high quality and engineering. The trade off, well you have to do a lot of custom work to swap the 4.3l v6 vortec into a Grand National for instances.

[@earlbrown]

​@@charleslowe522 4.3 heads are Chevy heads. Grand Nationals use a 109 cast BOP 3.8 block. They heads, intake, etc won't interchange. Two completely different animals.

[@rogerowens5669]

Especially when you can use a Cutlass body or Buick any G body

[@ManIsKind369]

@@charleslowe522 thanks for sharing! I can’t find the heads you mentioned for $168 for the pair. Could you share a link? I would love to get a replacement set for that price. For my GMC Safari =D

[@limabravo6065]

I picked up a set of “Deepmotor” aka Chicom copies for $380 190cc int. runners & 64cc chambers and I did have to clean them up a bit (they’ll run fine I’m just ocd) but I picked up more power than $400 should have gotten me. I’d rather buy from an American company but I’m not wealthy so these domestic producers like AFR or Edelbrock etc... need to come out with actual budget heads if they want to retain customers that can’t afford their heads even when they’re used let alone new

[@Chevyshow]

I’m glad to see some up to date videos about vortec stuff in a time where the world has gone LS swap crazy. Just dropped a set off vortec head on my Malibu and I’m currently searching for a good full roller vortec engine for my camaro

[@rkinni]

I hear you everything is LS these days. I have a marine vortec in my truck. I have an LS to swap in, but gonna leave it sbc. I picked up a hardly used Weiand 144 with the vortec base in a deal with a friend. I am going to put it on and slip in a blower cam. It's already a roller cam engine so should make for a nice setup. Also running it on E85 to keep charge temps down. These little blowers love E85 from what I am finding.

[@zrsnopro97]

A lot of people LS swap just because everyone else is they don’t really have a reason

[@Nowayjose-z2r]

You are close to right on. Many people complain about china this and that, problem is MOST of things in this world are made in a handful of factories. Most "built in USA" heads are actually cast in China and assembled here. the flip side is China doesn't care so you give them a price point and they try and make it and by try is make a part that matches the price point. With that said, who thinks all these head companies, including Blueprint, ATK, AFR (on some budget lines) all have a foundry employing hundreds of workers, safety, HR, OCHA, etc. to make head castings for anything under 1K a piece? Not enough volume in sales for all the different combinations and risk involved. There are diamonds in the ruff along with, I don't know, using a product for its intended purpose. You can't really expect to get 800HP out of a SBC with $300 heads but you should be able to expect an easy 300 - 350hp with the right set up. I say this because almost weekly someone opens their mouth while I not so politely tell them they are an idiot. Can not count the lets slam a .600 lift in a stock lower end with out of the box speedmaster heads (usually for a flat tappet cam set up NOT a roller), drop a jegs brand dual plane and some 850 double pumper some guy rebuilt last year and get made at the parts because it runs worse then stock.

[@mpeugeot]

Damn, back in the day, we couldn't have even imagined getting a head as good as those DNA heads for anywhere near those prices. Holy hell the world has changed - haven't priced aftermarket aluminum heads since the mid-90's for SBC.

[@warhorse58gt]

Super simple nowadays. China just takes a good design, and illegally copies it. Then you find them for dirt cheap on Amazon, or ebay. They save themselves from r&d by just stealing the design.

[@LeeByrdPro]

@@warhorse58gt Since they make most of them for us, we either invest in America, or continue to lose out to China. I'm not condoning theft, but it would be harder to steal if China wasn't casting a large percentage of our parts to begin with.

[@DrewLSsix]

@@warhorse58gt that does happen.. a lot. But its just as common for American companies to take their designs to China and have them made there. The glut of affordable stroker kits over the last few decades are 100% due to companies importing Chinese cranks.

[@sirtnfol8476]

No lie.

[@AFR383]

Yeah I will never save a buck to buy foreign stuff if I know they were copied from American companies

[@terminalfx]

Of course I come across this video a few days 'after' paying to have some vortec 906's mag'd before a rebuild.

[@ni_wink84]

I love my AFRs granted they are the comp ported version, but they are so well made and they perform so well, I had dart pro 1 Cnc before changed to AFR and we gained 85hp with the same port size 220-220cc both fully CNCed, the AFR just did its job so much better, I recommend them to anyone I can, yes the price is steep, but the enforcer is the new budget on the block, I trust AFR 100%

[@kevincollins1306]

I've been eyeing a set of those DNA heads for awhile now and after seeing this video I think I'm going to get a set they'll be perfect for my new engine I'm collecting parts for.

[@cuttersperformance]

They flow well, but not sure about longevity

[@Haffschlappe]

Dont use Chinese crap buy brodix

[@donscott6431]

Check the thickness of the upper wall, inside the intake side, on the short side of the valve radius. We made a lot more horsepower with a higher top wall there. It’s even more pronounced with 351 Cleveland heads for fords, BUT, ( on Cleveland heads) because of the volume inside the runner, it’s best to put vanes inside the runners. This is done by drilling a hole in the bottom of the intake runner and running a threaded shaft, which is attached to the “vane” ( a piece of thin curved metal, much like what’s in torque converters), and after tightening, silicone. You have a flow bench, put your finger in front of the intake runner (or a popsicle stick) to see the difference. Ultimately you’re wanting to direct flow to the short-side radius, heighten the top of the runner, to streamline flow into the combustion chamber and create a better “mix” ( volumetric efficiency) in the chamber.

[@christianmotley262]

Have thought about doing that for years, you're the first I've heard of using vanes. Are you talking about a carbureted setup and if so, what does the fuel do to the silicone? On the old Buick heads we have been taught to leave the short side radius alone, BTW.

[@joeshumo9457]

I love the older engines with the newer heads. Basically anything from the D port 113 corvette heads on up. The old camel backs and 882 heads were Heavy gas guzzlers that only flowed well after some serious work. That said I have a four bolt truck block 355 with unshrouded 202 190 valves , Ported 882 heads at 9.5:1 screw in studs and guide plates and bronze guides. That’s only because I did them myself twenty years ago and they are still like new and run really well. Vortec and 113s are better truck heads though. I also have a 327 with camelbacks just for nostalgia. I have one Chevelle, one Xj6c jaguar, and one truck but I seem to have collected and built at least a dozen engines for some reason.

[@Reisor_HoundHunting]

Love these videos. I used the vortec heads because of you and I'm glad I did it really woke up an old 350 from the early 80s

[@cuttersperformance]

Hell yeah! Glad to hear that man!

[@michaelcouey1383]

2023 update: these heads are currently running $243 as of 12/27/2023. Pricing history shows they fluctuate (like most Amazon stocked items) between $203 and $260. So if you're thinking about playing with these, keep an eye out for the lower end of the scale.

[@waynebollentin989]

There's other factor like cc of the head when making a choice. Velocity is very important also. That said I'll take the AFR heads all day sure vs a cheap head like this. If it's a mild build and not really beating on it I guess they're ok and have a place. My little sbc with AFR 220cc makes 637hp on pump 93 with a hydraulic roller on a mild tune. Although anyone looking for the baddest 23 degree sbc head BES ALL PRO RR245 are where it's at. From .700 thur 1.000 lift they flow about 370/292. They only start at 6,700 though lol. Nice video by the way.

[@fathergratwick]

The AFR enforcers are a version of same chinese castings you can buy from china though afr does replace the valve guides and regrinds the seats before reselling

[@wingingittracy8508]

The AFR enforcer is a great bang for the buck head , I believe Skip White sells this same casting as an NKB head . I am putting a set of these on a mild 383 . if I were to complain about anything it would be the deck thickness . AT .450 it's seem a little thin , Not that I have any experience warping aluminum heads.

[@mermaiddreams83]

Awesome!! Perfect timing was just about to order some upgraded springs for my vortec heads!! So I'm super excited for this giveaway!! Can't wait!! Thanks for all you do!! Luv your channel!!!

[@cuttersperformance]

Hell yeah! I've hit 4k this morning so look out for my next video for a chance to win the kit! Excited for one lucky vortec lover Cheers!

[@jerrymendoza4384]

Sweeeeeeeeet

[@joeysandoval3260]

@@cuttersperformance how much is the ls 6 spring kit

[@chrisreynolds6520]

Look like the same castings as my Assault heads that Lloyd Elliot ported for me. ~500 hp 383 with a mild 218/228 cam.

[@itseithergonnaworkoritaint7852]

Another great video! Now if you look at the average flow numbers of both heads they're within 3.3 CFM. It was 196.728 average CFM for the DNA head and 200.028 CFM for the AFR head.(from what I could read on my phone, they might be slightly different if someone can see them better?) You can't overlook or underestimate the low lift numbers because the other head has better high lift numbers. Unless you're running a very high lift cam, you probably won't even hit the highest lift numbers once but the low lift numbers will always hit twice once on the way up and once on the way back down. If someone were to use a cam with .500" lift using the average flow numbers then the DNA heads would average 176.5 CFM and the AFR heads are 176.4 CFM. So if a larger cam or porting aren't in the budget, the DNA heads would be the ticket because both sets of heads would probably make right around the same HP with a. 500" lift or lower cam. How would someone enter the giveaway, by just being a subscriber? (Which I have been for a couple months when I seen one of your videos for the first time)

[@cuttersperformance]

Nice work man! Look out for the next video for the giveaway details!

[@philipmazzuca2269]

Port Nut- where are they getting “Foamy” I’ve done 3 sets of these type heads (LPC HEADS) I have not encountered this.

[@shitbox7413]

I bought a set of the $190 bare “200 cc” eBay heads, they look more like the AFR enforcer than the DNA head does, even have the Vortec manifold bolt holes, they’re absolutely identical to the AFR head...

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah I've seen those to! Also exactly like the BluePrint Racing heads aswell

[@shitbox7413]

@@cuttersperformance Yep they’re all the same head, I’d like to know the real story behind them. I think you’re right, I think they’re rejects from the big name companies like Dart and AFR...

[@fathergratwick]

these are what I bought as well... got mine from AT racing and I believe they are the very same castings as AFR buys from china for the enforcers.

[@nyertsenginetransmission3861]

Awesome detailed video! I'm surprised how well them cheaper heads flow! Have been looking at buying a set thanks

[@crankyrancor2847]

Congratulations on reaching 4k man , keep the great vids coming 👍🏻👍🏻

[@cuttersperformance]

Thanks bother!

[@Gearhead.327]

Another awesome video! I feel that it was especially made for budget minded people like myself. Thanks.

[@indyrock8148]

For me I would go the bare DNA heads and a valves/spring/retainer pack from competition products. Then an afternoon with 60 grit cartridge rolls in the ports. Actually I would probably get carried away and port them a little.

[@tonyd7342]

Here's a tip... Just clean up the exhausts, shape the lower side and the area flowing out with a match port, especially at the bottom. I'm not into 5 angle valve jobs, because 3 angles with blended top and bottom angles flow better. You may also want to increase the throat to 75 to 80% if you have a lift near .600. On the intake side. Match port the runners in an inch or so, blending into the existing ports flow. Clean the rest of the runner up. 3 angle valve job blended and you are good to go. If you have some lift, hog the bowls to the flash then clean the flash area around the guide, then round your guide. It's a weekend project if you don't do this for a living. I'm a machinest and it takes me an a day. If you can spare a few CC's unshroud the valves in the chamber and at the plugthreads. It will cost you 2 to 3 CC's but worth It On the flow results I've seen. If your not going vortex, remove the upper lip at the top of the intake gasket. The intake side are based on vortecs. I can speculate on the exhausts. Heres something that they don't tell you. They take 16 + .100 valves.

[@jr78racer]

🤯 very nice flow numbers for such a cheap head. I'd imagine a simple cleanup would have them beating the afrs everywhere. thanks for sharing the numbers. 👊🤘😎

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah I was abit surprised too! But alot of mixed reviews on longevity

[@jr78racer]

@@cuttersperformance longevity for guides and seats or cracking issues?

[@cuttersperformance]

@@jr78racer i don't think the casting will crack But I think the guides may wear out fast but who knows I had a guy email me telling me he has a ton of miles on a set of the ebay heads

[@jr78racer]

@@cuttersperformance for the price, I'd just put better guides in them and send it

[@cuttersperformance]

@@jr78racer i like your style man 😎 👌

[@courtneymoses9050]

Awesome! Just what I need for my Vortec heads!! 🤘👍

[@jeremys924]

I had a feeling these DNA heads were quality control biproducts from another dealer. I would love to have a set of those spring kits for my 85 third gen build.

[@cuttersperformance]

They do look better than I thought, not sure about longevity but I guess we wil find out

[@jeremys924]

@@cuttersperformance i was concerned about the steel springs digging into the aluminum head overtime, if thats even a thing.

[@cuttersperformance]

@@jeremys924 yeah there should be a hardened shim or spring seat under the spring to prevent that

[@rogerowens5669]

Dude once again excellent video

[@avidcat11]

Good information video! I noticed the Cayuga starting line in your intro, fellow Canuck! Our 383 build up on wife's 70 Nova will sport a set of enforcer heads. Just got our Howards retro roller and max effort lifters delivered today, getting ready for assembly. Hoping for 400+ hp @10.5:1 compression.

[@cuttersperformance]

Good eye! And yes sir 🇨🇦 . A 10.5:1 383, enforcer heads, even with a mild roller cam you should have no issues at all hitting 400 hp. Howards have some reallly good shelf grinds, what cam did you pick?

[@avidcat11]

@@cuttersperformance Hey, I got the 110265-12S. I went for a little more lobe separation @ 112° as we are considering fuel injection. It's my first roller (that I've built) and looking forward to taking advantage of quick high lift, without the duration bleed-off. Hope it all works well together!

[@troymecey]

I'm interested in knowing more about the DNA heads. Only info I have found so far says the valves are .100 longer. Could use the spring kit on the 96 Vortec 350 I'm wanting to build for my truck. Thanks

[@chevyfan82]

Interesting that the dna head out flowed the arf on exhaust and rather close on intake for the money seems like a win. Congrats on 4k+ subscribers with all the good content you're going to grow subscribers fast. Looking forward to the giveaway I have some 906's that need a upgrade 😉

[@cuttersperformance]

Thanks brother! Keep a eye out got the giveaway video coming up

[@chevyfan82]

@@cuttersperformance will do, and thank you again for very useful and informative information 👍

[@monkeysbusiness]

Your valve spring kit will go good on my Vortec heads that are in the shop getting those larger exhaust valves 👍. Another great video

[@cuttersperformance]

Look out for the next video for the giveaway!

[@johnnyturbo8460]

You had me at STICKERS! Great video, just subscribed

[@cuttersperformance]

Sticker HP!

[@johnnyturbo8460]

@@cuttersperformance lol True 😁👍

[@jonathanlawson4667]

I put dart heads on my build and I absolutely love them

[@matthewcromwell1969]

I am getting ready to order the Dart Iron eagle heads. What heads did you get and how much improvement did you see over a stock head?

[@jonathanlawson4667]

@@matthewcromwell1969 I used the dart SS heads similar to iron eagle heads mine are 185cc intake flow with 65cc combustion chambers and gives me around 50+ hp over stock heads probably a little more then 50 my motor dyno is 400hp at the crank and my cam is mild with a 502 intake lift and a 498 exhaust lift

[@matthewcromwell1969]

@@jonathanlawson4667 that sounds awesome. I have a stock 350 in my 1972 GMC all original with 38,000 miles. I put a small lunati cam, 454 lift 276/286 advertised duration 221/231 at .050 112 lobe separation. It is only rated at 175 hp stock. I am also putting headers, aluminum intake and holey 4 barrel on with the heads. The truck heads suck, they come with 1.72 intake and 1.50 exhaust valves. No power at all. I am looking to get a bunch more horsepower from the heads. I have heard a lot of good stuff about them.

[@jonathanlawson4667]

@@matthewcromwell1969 yeah that cam isn't going to do you any good at all unless you change the heads so they can flow enough for the new cam but dart has many different affordable options

[@matthewcromwell1969]

@@jonathanlawson4667 yeah I am changing the heads and intake and carburetor and putting headers on it.

[@clintlawson2455]

Your very good on heads i got a 96 vortec 350 im wanting to build i watch all your videos i work 70hrs a week for 8 yrs working 2nd and 3rd shift help a brother out im 52 and never see my youngins youngist is 13 loves working on all my old stuff i have a 302 sbc with 291 heads aint got time to rebuild it or money 👌

[@johnwehunt4305]

The DNA head looks to be better for turbocharger use with the higher exhaust flow.

[@cuttersperformance]

My thoughts exactly and I will be running a 355 with these heads first NA then turbo on the dyno in a few weeks

[@tommycook9620]

I just got a set of patriot freedom head's aluminum for $300 ,202 ,160 was thinking about getting them looked at and port work like to make a 500hp small block

[@Myriadconcepts-q9u]

For the Camaro and Nova 68-81 The Hooker race car headers (weld on collectors) for the application gets around the angle plug heads no problem even with the 1 7/8” primary’s..

[@goratgo1970]

Nice vid. appreciate the info. wanted to get Aluminum anyways. Will await followup video on their condition after use...

[@bigcountry9210]

Rough intake runner is a good thing on a street motor

[@shredfest30]

Great info Pat.! morning coffee and flow numbers haha!

[@meatybtz]

They both likely come from the same factory and from the same casting mold. The AFR heads are just "higher QC" and often finish machined in the USA. When you have things made in China and order say, 30000 units, the factory will make 700000, about 300000 will pass minimum QC, the rest are "seconds" and sold for less on the market.

[@pheroelky6600]

True I work their . Spot on 😆 we get them from China and we finished them in the USA. And some parts are quality . Depending on the new workers they rotate . I like this work but to bad we can't keep good workers . So most people order heads and some take many months or years to get your parts. They keep losing employees and not enough productions

[@cwick72]

Dude I’m glad yt put this in my feed. About to drop a 350 in my truck and been deciding on heads, prob just go this route.

[@michaelstoker6710]

That actually happens a lot the foundries/ factory that cast and make the big name stuff actually have the rights of he product and can and do sale it to other companies.as far as the afr heads your getting there ports work and parts and the same raw casting.

[@simplycorvettesc3corvettes659]

I found that to be pretty darn interesting myself. AFR basically does what WE would do ourselves. Excellent vid!

[@besearchingforwisdom6267]

Interesting for sure and I'm a little smarter now. 👊👍

[@headlesnorseman701]

there is a 90% chance those heads are made in the same place lol

[@CORNDODGER]

CHYNA

[@johnsheetz6639]

I work in the food industry some will be labeled Great value and some high-dollar uppity brand from places like Roth's or Publix with a fancy label. To be honest the ones with the highest standards are Kirkland brand from Costco.

[@xpslinger8171]

🎯

[@Nowayjose-z2r]

Truth.

[@Nowayjose-z2r]

@@CORNDODGER duh. Where else? China doesn't mean bad quality, they will attempt to meet any price point. That said people act like, say Sony, has nothing but top quality... lol

[@narmale]

190cc? man i remember those days... been a long time ago tho... ya'll need to try the twisted wedge 255's for smoll block

[@shitbox7413]

I’ve seen 420+ cubic inch small blocks with a CNC ported 195 AFR that work damn well. 👍🏻

[@cathyciccarelli3649]

Love the info! I've learned a lot from your videos!

[@cuttersperformance]

Thank I appreciate the feedback!

[@BADHABIT571]

Help a Cheap Skate out ! ! ! I have a '55 2 door Post and a Disco Corvette that needs some motivation . . . a Beehive setup would help get either project closer to Drivable . . .

[@cuttersperformance]

Look out for the next video!

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

I remember back in the day when only the rich guys could afford to have aluminum heads on their engines. If these heads weren't decent so many manufacturers wouldn't be casting theirs overseas now also. They'd let them be junk and keep theirs 100% US made for everyone to buy after the cheap ones fail. But that's not what happened. Thanks for the video.

[@gmpugh7606]

Another awesome video Pat... how awesome is this, I am already on another build, it will be sweet to be able to win the kit that I am going to be purchasing from a way.. if anyone is thinking about ordering one of the spring kits, well think no further, just get them! This is a great kit!!!

[@cuttersperformance]

On to another build already haha thata boy! Thanks for the feedback and glad you like the spring kit!

[@tomsettles6873]

This really shows how much profit the head companies see in a $2,000 pair of heads. Minus some R&D dollars, probably $1250 per pair.

[@cuttersperformance]

Theres no doubt that the machine work and components are better in the brand name heads, but oftentimes, even they have flaws. But yes, there must be some serious profit margins

[@6.liter-beater]

Been waiting for this video, finally got the notification and was in the middle of a work meeting 😂 attention went right out the window. I'm running your vortec spring setup on a set of home ported vortecs hopefully going to have the engine together and dynoed in the next few weeks! Great vids 👍

[@cuttersperformance]

Hahaha amazing! But sorry for the distraction 😄

[@6.liter-beater]

Your fallowers have jumped over 2k since I watched the video!! And the heads have now jumped 100$ 😂 I think they are on to you!

[@cuttersperformance]

@@6.liter-beater haha sh#t! Sorry man I've had alot of comments saying, those heads aren't $165 now! Haha

[@jerrymendoza4384]

Woo-hoo...been waiting for this

[@shitbox7413]

Amazing how well the exhaust port flows in the Chinese head...

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah very surprised by that aswell

[@spartynation355]

Your valve spring kit would work great with my new 1.6 exhaust valves and new seats. Thanks for the info great vids 👍👍

[@chuckfoye4563]

Looks like the short turn could use some work on the AFR, not liking how it levels off at 500.

[@chevyone5512]

i ported and polished a set of procomp 205 -202-160 heads and ill tell you i dont know what they flow but my 358 runs real strong im talkin high 10s strong in a 78 malibu i had a 1190 camaro and this car is much quicker.my opinion you port any 202 head or bigger you will produce some power

[@jonathangodfrey2210]

Would love to see the enforcers on actual dyno on a 383 or so to see real horsepower numbers. Nobody seems to have done one yet.

[@cuttersperformance]

We currently i am using a DNA aluminum head (voted by the viewers) on a 355 SBC. Its basically exactly the same casting as the afr head

[@jefferylayfield5788]

I like those el cheaper heads for that price I'd make a trip to harbor freight and get there porting kit and clean those runners up very interesting!

[@simplycorvettesc3corvettes659]

Exact same thing that occurred to me as well! American valves & springs & some port polishing & they're be good to go.

[@tonyd7342]

Where are you going to find the American valves at anyways. Manley and that company begining with f? Elgin makes a makes a nice street and race option. I use both ss styles with out a problem. I'd stay clear of the rest honestly, because they are the same valve with 1000 generic names. I've seen plenty of valves such as pro... That were off angle and needed a valve job new. You could use GM Valves, Eaton has made most of thier valves for years. They have several factories and guess where they are? Avoided anything from Indonesia like pro...

[@jdoe9518]

Throat diameter, seat profile, port volume and short turn as cast will determine your flow figures and difference between the two types of heads

[@aliciaANDanthonySandoval]

I would love some beehive springs😜👍

[@crabbypapa3862]

Not being concerned with flow numbers. What was the cost of Complete, valves, springs, retainers, etc, including any machine work? Thanks.

[@cuttersperformance]

With the cost of the DNA heads going up is no so much of a deal anymore. Check out skip white NKB heads or the AFR enforcers

[@jeffjarquin5600]

Sweet, would love the spring kit! I'm building/porting a set of iron Lt1 heads at the moment.

[@Texasmule]

Looking to replace my 224cc heads from 68 impala with some heads near the same cc's

[@kennethalbert4653]

300 + CFM from a 195cc port....I'd love to see that !

[@cuttersperformance]

I believe the AFR CNC 195 racing heads are around there Pretty cool! 👍 but expensive

[@AB-80X]

Eric Weingartner has proven the flow. He measured 299.2 @ .600" on his bench which is pretty conservative. It was not a marketing number on a Superflow 600 bench. I've done a few SBC's with the fully CNC finished AFR 195 and there's nothing in that size out there that makes the same power unless you port it - and then it's not a 195 anymore...

[@MrRandy3504]

I only run afr heads but looks like some major port work and use afr valves at $20 each and theyll be very similar

[@4thdimensiontravels855]

I could use them springs myself. Great video man. You will capture a BIG audience aiming for the hot rodders on a very limited budget. Soon to be 100k no doubt.

[@cuttersperformance]

Wow thanks for that man, thats what I'm going for. Trying to show guys ways they can do things themselves, budget builds are fun and great for learning Cheers!

[@ezelk1337]

Great video as always. I am getting ready to redo my vortec heads in a couple of months. Your beehive springs would be a fantastic addition. Keep up the good work. Thanks

[@jerrymendoza4384]

Hey, 2 part question... Bought a blueprint crate motor w vortec heads BP35512CTI1. Heads r different casting 906 (P) side & 062 (D) side, any downside? Cam specs show .495 / .502 lift 221-226 duration 110° LSA, heads appear to have no machine work to accept rhis set up. Any idea on how this is accomplished without valve train issues? Thanks.

[@cuttersperformance]

No differece in 906 and 062 as long as the 906 doesn't have the press in exhaust seats. That lift cam be accomplished with the right springs and retainers. I can get .580 with my beehive kit with no machining

[@jerrymendoza4384]

Awesome. Glad to know.

[@Haffschlappe]

Could you please check the New 32Valve conversion heads for Chevy small Blocks?

[@firemanjim324]

Have you seen the fulltwin turbo kit on Amazon, by MMI Motorsports? Days it's a complete kit, EVERYTHING is included...... It's $1500 for 5.7 .... I think I looked up for Vortec 5.7 ..... Do you have a turbo kit you recommend?

[@adeptpeasant6161]

DNA All the Way and port them with maybe a polish on the exhaust side. Thanks for the Heads-up

[@diveingarage]

Great video! Those no-name heads make some power!

[@vidiupload4174]

With the heads as is, I'd guess that the AFRs might respond to a cam with longer exhaust duration, but it's also possible that the I/E flow ratio could already be optimized. AFR is not exactly new to this game.

[@marvingvx1]

The I/E ratio is very dependent on the CR so AFR could not 'optimize' this unless the CR was known for each and every build the heads could be used on.

[@Toomanyprojects1993]

This video was awesome, thanks for the comparison video. I’m gunna get some dna heads and do a port job and send it

[@joeyjojojr.shabadoo915]

Do you think you could hand port those DNA heads and gain 40-50cfm on the intake a 20-25cfm on the exhaust ? They might not be good enough to sell to someone else, but I bet since you have a flow bench at your disposal (and by the sound of it, the means to do a better valve job) you could create a pretty kick ass set of heads for yourself personally with nothing more than your time invested.

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah I've had the Heads on the flow bench this week, don't think 40 to 50 cfm will happen unless i went to a bigger valve and even then. The pinch point for the push rod is thin and for sure the limiting factor for these heads. But even with 2.02/1.6 i should be able to get some gains with some basic porting

[@joeyjojojr.shabadoo915]

@@cuttersperformance As you showed, the exhaust is already impressive and could probably squeeze a tiny bit more with some general cleanup. The intake, if even +10-20 cfm would be killer....especially for the price.

[@cuttersperformance]

Stay tuned for a video on that! Haha gotta get caught up in editing these videos lol

[@fathergratwick]

I hand ported mine... no way of testing flow though. so far I am very happy with them in the car.

[@rickhaile2190]

Please list the costs of each set of heads in the future.Some guys,such as myself,would like to compare them price wise.So they could decide if the extra flow is worth the money on there combo.Thanks!

[@seletialewis9746]

Got a part number for the knock off heads I'm in need of a set! I'd like to replace my 186. 300 hp heads and go aluminum and maybe a hydraulic roller in my ole tow truck

[@MB-ib5ji]

Stock 706 heads 250. Just put springs. Thanks for the info I'm addicted to flow numbers engine Dyno numbers and all that scientific stuff lol...

[@cuttersperformance]

Ls head are amazing, no doubt about that. I got a few different sets here and will do some porting and flow bench results when I get some other projects cleaned up!

[@MB-ib5ji]

@@cuttersperformance I got a 68 cougar with a 1990 5.0 in it going to blow it up and then put in a 5-3 cannot wait to experience the ls power🇺🇸

[@cuttersperformance]

The ole cross breed of Ford and GM haha love it

[@MB-ib5ji]

@@cuttersperformance you guys started it by taking our 9-inch rear ends!!! You stop using those and put your weak ass little12-point GM rear end in there and I'll stick with my 5 L Ford weak-ass motor! Okay then didn't think so lol😜

[@domib3873]

What's your take on the aluminum ATeam performance heads from Amazon??

[@GFPRACING]

Sand papper roll the DNA Motoring Heads , Gasked match them . use a Neck Down Valve . & . it looks like the DNA Motoring Heads would Out perform the Afr heads .

[@Parents_of_Twins]

The exhaust flow out of the AFR's is obviously a lot better and people don't think about how much that affects power production. You can flow like crazy into a cylinder but if you aren't getting that spent mixture out you're killing power. AFR's heads are expensive there is no doubt but how often do you see them getting beat in dyno comparisons? So if you are wanting something that looks badass but isn't go cheap if you want badass save up and get the good stuff.

[@ratherbeboating10]

You ever consider flowing a set of the jegs (profilers)? I'd be curious if there is a difference compared to the real deal. My machinist steered me to the profilers over the AFRs... he said dollar for dollar and for what I was going to do they would be the better value. At the time it was a 600$ difference and I used that difference toward other things I needed. No regrets there lol.

[@cuttersperformance]

Profiler heads are excellent! I run a set on my trans am They often flow higher than advertised also

[@ratherbeboating10]

@@cuttersperformance makes me feel better about the 195s on my vette lol. I know guys have had issues with the raised exhaust port because the bolt holes aren't the normal raised style but my headers fit no issue. I'm just choking it with a crap intake at the moment.

[@simplycorvettesc3corvettes659]

Eww, great suggestion!

[@cuttersperformance]

I did a C4 a few years back 383 stroker, 195 profilers, decent cam, TPIS intake Worked out nicely 👌 Never dynoed it though

[@ratherbeboating10]

@@cuttersperformance Mines a crossfire but stock bottom end... so flat tops, thin head gasket, 195s, ported intake. Compression ratio I guesstimate around 10:1. The pistons are hard to cc in the block. I intended to do an overbore but there was still cross hatching in the bores so I said screw it. It's a 224/230 roller from comp. It moves out pretty hard anywhere below 4400. If you've ever seen a stock crossfire intake port... thats why. And when I grenade this I have an 880 block 383 ready to go lol.

[@inscoredbz]

Those are two different port designs on the same casting. My eBay heads look just like the afr ,only 11/32 valve stems. I think I have seen three different port designs on the same casting. Afr definitely gets the top choice castings.

[@chrispambid8000]

Can't go wrong with AFR heads

[@bluecollarhotrods9781]

It looks like you deal with mostly SBC heads, I am in the process of trying to find springs, etc for my 96-00 BBC Vortec heads. In the middle of a budget built Gen V 454 with a hyd roller and the Vortec heads. Any insight or reccomendations on a spring kit for my application?

[@dalestephens5176]

Despite having larger valves, they flow less than L31 heads. Not a recipe for a successful 454 build.

[@Clutch_Kick187]

Ditch those heads..

[@merccrewlcab2385]

So who has run these for a while? What do you think of them? Do they need any special hardware at all! Great video by the way! Thanks eh!

[@barrystephensjr]

Damn gud????

[@merccrewlcab2385]

@port nut I live in Canada, so everything is basically double the price for me after the exchange rate, massive shipping costs, duty and taxes, so 4000+ for a set of good heads isnt going to fly with me. Besides, I like a challenge without spending too much. And the price of these is cheaper than most guys want for worn out fuelie heads, haha...

[@inscoredbz]

I can't find the video where you built and dynoed the 350 you put these on. What did it end up making?

[@cuttersperformance]

Was just dynoed, video's coming up. NA and boosted

[@jonrice4483]

The sbc hydraulic roller cam I am using has intake/exhaust lift of .510/.525, would the TFS valve springs mentioned in your referenced video be overkill?

[@cuttersperformance]

No, they are pretty normal hydraulic roller spring specs, and if you happen to go to a larger cam, you'll have enough spring for that aswell

[@sethturner1459]

Hey your description said to email you about a kit to get more lift out of a vortec head just wondering how to reach you or for a link possibly. Your videos are awesome man I've learned so much I'd never of thought about

[@jasonconaway69]

How do you think the Enforcer heads would perform against a Vortec head on the same engine?

[@cuttersperformance]

I'm actually working on two similar builds with the same cam to see how they stack up against each other

[@jasonconaway69]

@@cuttersperformance Sweet. Look forward to seeing how that turns out. Thanks for the reply!

[@padensutterby3911]

I would really like to see the DNA laid over the vortec stock heads

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah I can do that man, I will try to remember to add that in the vortec porting flow video coming up

[@tonyd7342]

@@cuttersperformance been there done that. They must be cast from vortex on the intake side. The only difference may be that they use very coarse barr sand to cast these. I think it's the type that goes into 3500 concrete. Lol

[@rono3045]

Thank God I'm a Ford guy.. 50 year old Cleveland heads Will outflow those brand new Chevy junk heads,. OMG 😱

[@cuttersperformance]

Hahaha easy now 🤣

[@jasonritter2492]

King funny nobody wants or care about that ford power at the race track.

[@goratgo1970]

Yebut i'd hafta git a 2nd job to be able to afFORD building one to get same HP - i'll keep the bowtie on...

[@darrinstone49]

Will either the DNA or AFR allow a 2.05 or 2.08 intake valves? Looking for a better flowing fill on a 406-406 sbc.

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah they can be cut to those. Another option are the Skip white NKB heads. They seem to have better quality control than DNA

[@seadogg5416]

Great Video Pat, I have a set of the DNA Heads and I want to run the Vortec style air gap intake I have, what gaskets are best? ??? Thanks

[@jamieschinkai1267]

Thanks for the video brother! Have you ever flowed 193 swirlport heads?

[@cuttersperformance]

I have not been able to get a set for a decent price lately But I do have some 305 vortec heads which are actually similar (they even have the swirl ramp) Porting and flow videos coming up

[@revolvinggarage5425]

@@cuttersperformance I have a pair of 193 heads I’d be willing to trade ya for some of your stuff! I’m doing a head upgrade from them currently and have the engine out. I’m debating vortec (in which case I’d get your spring kit), or a cheap aluminum combo. Want me to contact you with my info?!

[@GLF426]

The flow comparisons are one thing. I'm wondering how heat cycles are going to effect the knock off

[@cuttersperformance]

Yeah exactly! Time will tell

[@edwardmartinez9459]

None of them have exhaust crossover holes. Us guy's on the east coast need heat in the winter just warming up.