Vortec heads

[Gyawo]

I am starting to build a 350 to replace the 305 in my '86 blazer. Looking to use some vortec heads if I can get some. Already figured out what intake I am going with, just wondering what I have to use for lifters/rockers? I know I can't use the stock lifters for my 305(I have a box of brand new ones), so what needs to go in there?

[STOCKISH]

The lifters should be the same as the 350 lifters. You can use the stock pushrods and stock Vortec self aligning rocker arms too.

[ont_guy_38]

I'm also pretty sure the lifters are the same

[Pro Performance]

Lifters and push rods are the same. The only difference in the valve train is the self-aligning rocker arms on the vortec heads. You will have to use self-aligning unless you change them over to screw in studs with guide plates. Then you can use traditional rockers arms.

[BigBlocksRule]

305 lifters are identical to 350's, use 'em!

[Warrens69GMC]

What year of 350 did you get for the block?

[Gyawo]

I think it is '86. I need to find the casting numbers. I pinched it from my Snap-On dealer, need to ask him on friday when he swings by. Glad to hear I can use all the goodies he gave me. I would prefer using the self aligning, although a guy should learn how to adjust his own valves. Anybody have any feedback on Eldebrock's performer eps intake for the vortec heads? Part number 2716.

[BigBlocksRule]

Self-aligning rockers simply means you don't have to use guideplates, the valves will still need adjusted during assembly. It's easy, once you know what you're doing.

[Sniper X]

If I am not mistaken, you also need a Vortech (aftermarket for carb) intake manifold because I THINK the angle of the intake to head is different from a conventional small block chev to Vortech chev head.

[BigBlocksRule]

Intake to head is the same, bolt pattern is completely different. Old intakes pull themselves directly toward the head's manifold surface, Vortecs pull themselves straight down toward the block. Intake runners on Vortec heads are also raised .100 from stock, gives a straighter shot at the back of the intake valve, that's one of their "tricks". Don't even try to redrill a conventional or TBI intake to fit Vortec heads, you're killing a good bit of the head's potential.

[thesickc10]

also a .480 max cam lift for the vortech heads so plan your cam accordingly

[Mr. 250r]

That's the max lift on a stock head i saw a thread where i guy got his to .575 but to stay safe he said .550, pretty sure those are the numbers he put up and had a nice thread on it got all the measurements and pic and what not. I can try looking for it

I also forgot to mention that maybe it was he didn't want to machine it i think was his point he just used a different retainer i think the beehive springs and something else.... been awhile since i saw it

[RUSHNBOBO]

A stock head w/stock springs will coil bind at .470-.480 lift ...either they need to be machined or use aftermarket springs and retainers.....

Use Crane Cam’s 10309-1 drop-in valve spring and retainer kit which is good for .550” lift with no machining.” about $160 bucks

[Gyawo]

This will be a bit of a budget build, just for a winter beater. The cam will be the last thing I buy after I figure out my heads. If I get some vortec heads then I will be getting edlebrock's performer EPS intake PT# 2716. Still need to get the block align honed and mic'd to find out if I need over size pistons, it may have been bored .030 already.

Going to pop over to the junkyard on saturday and see what I can turn up, going to shoot for either some 441 cast iron heads, or if there are a set of good looking vortecs.