82 350 4 bolt build

[gcochran223]

I'm going to do 305 heads, summit headers, 600cfm summit carb,carb spacer, holly avenger intake , COMP Cams SK12-231-2 kit which says 250/258, Lift .432/.453. I have 3.73 and a th400 with stock torque converter. My gearhead friend is doing the build but I would appreciate some input on this from other people. Just if the parts jive together and if it seems as is if it will work. Truck will be driven probably 10k a year when finished. Towing and play. Thanks ahead.

[Lt.Del]

i am not a head expert, but are you sure you want to use the smaller valves of the 305 heads--many i believe are prone to cracking when heated.

[gcochran223]

It is a set of heads that my buddy had sitting around, that have never been ran.but when it comes to performance  this is all Greek to me.

[gcochran223]

Let me explain what my plans are for the truck itself. It's currently getting tore down for resto the truck when built I plan on using for a cruiser, mud in a field on occasion, towing up to 5k. I'm not looking for a super high performance drag truck, just more than the 185hp now. Granted I run 35s on 3.73 gears but it would be nice to have some power in 4lo.info and opinions appreciated. Thanks

[jaredts]

305 heads on a 350 are not considered a good mod. by most.  Aside from that I'm not in a position to say what's best.  Vortec heads or a good set of aftermarket heads are your best bet.  Is your buddy rebuilding the lower end (new pistons, etc.), or just a backyard re-ring, or what?

[gcochran223]

The lower end is good so that should remain untouched. Top end work pretty much. When the current heads come off ill know more

[1980c10]

I would rebuild the block as well, you're so close (unless it was done recently). It would be a good time to get a set of flat top pistons and find some better heads. This will give you a lot of "bang for the buck". If its a money issue then wait. Looks like a good cam for what you want to do. I also like the vortech heads as well but if you do get them you will need a differant intake.  If you do these things also consider a somewhat larger carb otherwise the 600 will work fine.

As your current plan stands; with the 305 heads and assuming stock dished pistons will be an improvement over the stock truck heads. You'll gain plenty of low end power but will run out on top end power becuase of smaller valves and intake runners. Its not a really bad combination if you already have the stuff. What I see this combination as is a shortcut to increase to increase the compression ratio which will help but the engine will be limited and and so much more potential is sitting there for the taking with a little more effort.

Note that if you already have flat top pistons you may increase the compression ratio too much...

[gcochran223]

I beleive it is a stock 82 350.

[VileZambonie]

If all you are doing is heads and a cam and you are putting those 305 heads on it you may as well just leave it alone and save your $. I agree - do an overhaul if you're going to do it and upgrade the heads and ignition system.