350 roller cam engine, what yrs???

[cag]

new to this small block stuff, what yrs had a roller cam, and what is the deal with the vortec heads?

thanks!!

[Accelo]

GM first began installing roller cams in some Chevrolet small-block, V8-equipped cars in 1987. But OE roller-cam installations in trucks didn't occur until 1995.
Vortec heads caused a huge jump in airflow and swirl, bumping the HP significantly. Vortec heads also require a matching intake manifold to work correctly.

If I were sourcing an engine, the later, the better. You will get a better-sealed engine with a one-piece rear main seal and center-hung valve covers that don't leak. You will also get higher-flowing heads and a roller cam. Old is for restorations, in my humble opinion.

[Tom]

Originally Posted by Accelo

center-hung valve covers that don't leak.

Nope, and yet they are always covered in oil and dirt.....

[Willshook]

A few additional comments.

Most late model GEN I roller cam blocks don't have the hole for a mechanical fuel pump pushrod, requiring either an electric pump or a machine shop with the correct jig to drill, ream, and hone it.

Vortec heads are great, but stock they are lift-limited to about .460 or so. This is easily addressed with some machine work and/or valve spring replacement and honestly there's not a ton of flow with more lift. Aftermarket versions that aren't lift-limited are readily available.

Keep in mind the intake is different.

You probably know all this, but better to find out before you start bolting stuff together...

[Dead Parrot]

SBCs are wonderful for being fairly compatible parts wise over the entire lifespan. Vortec heads will happily fit on a block of the 60's assuming bore sizes match. HEI dizzy in a engine that came original with points. Late model serpentine belts setup on early model engines. Or vice-versa if desired.

You need to double check details like Willshook mentioned about the fuel pump pushrod but generally the parts play well together.

[truckster]

Originally Posted by Dead Parrot

SBCs are wonderful for being fairly compatible parts wise over the entire lifespan. Vortec heads will happily fit on a block of the 60's assuming bore sizes match. HEI dizzy in a engine that came original with points. Late model serpentine belts setup on early model engines. Or vice-versa if desired.

You need to double check details like Willshook mentioned about the fuel pump pushrod but generally the parts play well together.

True, but none of that gives you a roller cam. I highly recommend the L31 block (casting number ends with 880). You get the roller cam and one-piece rear main seal. If you get one out of a used truck look for one with a block-off plate for the fuel pump - that signals that it's bored for a mechanical fuel pump rod. However, the cam may not have a fuel pump lobe. I got mine from a 98 1 ton and put a HT383 cam in it when I rebuilt it. That cam does have the fuel pump lobe.

[cag]

Thanks for the help! i will look for the L31, swap the cam and intake and see what it does!