SBC 350 Build Help

[LTZ C20]

Hey guys. I'm building a mild performance sb350 for my truck. Here's the deal, I have World Products Sportsman 2 heads, 64cc chamber. I'm searching for a Comp Cam, got a pretty good idea on one, most likely an Extreme Energy mild performance with noticeable idle, 1300-5100 rpm with a long duration and hydraulic flat tappet lifters. I'm also using chrome molly push rods and Summit stamped steel roller tip rockers. I'm using an Edelbrock Performer intake with an Edelbrock Performer carb. My first question that is these heads call for most 23 degree pistons. I was going to use my normal block, crank, con rods, and pistons. What does the "23 degree piston" mean? I don't understand what the degrees relate to for the pistons. Also, will I need to change my pistons to use these heads or will the normal Chevy steel pistons work? Thanks guys!

[bd]

23° refers to the angle of the intake and exhaust valves in the cylinder head with respect to the deck surface, or the center axis of the cylinder.  The valve pockets in the crown of a piston are relief cut at a specific angle to make the appropriate room for the valves while they're open so they won't collide with the piston.  The vast majority of Chevy heads (e.g., factory heads) are 23° heads.  23° heads match 23° pistons.  Another popular option is an 18° valve angle, which is most commonly used in racing applications.

Standard SB aluminum pistons will work as long as you don't go wild on the valve lift/duration.

You might consider aluminum full roller rockers as a worthy option to the stamped steel rockers.

[LTZ C20]

Wow. That helps a lot. I learn something every day. I won't be doing anything to crazy with my lift and duration like you said. I have to pass smog here in Cali. I'll look into aluminum rockers. Thanks!