build

[mikewb]

i was wondering if i can put old style heads on a vortec motor? also if should use the roller cam thats in it or a lunati 479 lift

[team39763]

I believe they'll bolt on just fine and you'll need the old style intake.  You might need new valvesprings to handle the roller cam though(I'm not sure).  I'm sure one of the more expereinced members can tell you more than I can though.

[HAULIN IT]

Mike, The short answer is yes you can put old style heads on a Vortec. Now for the questions. Why do you want to do this? Do you have only the shortblock? Fill us in & maybe we can give you a little better advice/plan . Lorne

[mikewb]

no i got long block. but my buddy has some 2.02s supposedly ported with screw in studs for sale for 400 and i figure those are better then the factory vortec ones. also would a voodoo 479 lift cam go well?

[HAULIN IT]

Mike, What is the truck your putting this engine in? What are your plans for it? I would carefully concider before removing the Vortec heads. They are the best flowing stock GM heads & likely better than many ported heads, ported heads for a race engine (big intake ports, ect.) with good high lift numbers are not necessarily what is best for a truck engine.You would be taking improvements that GM has made (roller cam & good all-around cylinder heads) & throwing them out. The valve size isn't the whole story. What cc's are the chambers? If they are 76cc + a deep valve job, your going to lose about a point in compression. Myself, I would purchase a hyd. roller cam (the GM pt# 24502586 is a good one for general performance) & some beehive springs & put it in & go. This will make you a good all-around engine. Lorne 

[mikewb]

well . trying to build for the most performance. not worried about mileage and stuff.  soo which heads better? regular vortec head or a 76 cc 2.02/1.60. keeping the factory cam for now.

[Captkaos]

96-99 Vortecs in my opinion.

[joesgarage71]

 Put the $400 into the vortecs, valves, springs and a pocket port them and a good valve job. Buy a air gap intake, summit has a cheap one.         

[mikewb]

what should i use to clean heads

[Captkaos]

Clean them for what?  To put them on the truck?  Are they used heads?

[d stroud]

Your are gonna have to spend well over $400.00 to get any factory head to come even close to flowing as good as the Vortecs.

No brainer...use the Vortecs.