I'm finally in the position to buy some decent heads, but it's been so long getting the cash together since I asked for tech info that I've forgotten a lot of the answers (head development/technology is advancing, but my head is regressing ). Originally I settled on a set of AFR180s, but the cost was soon out of my price range (plus AFR were working on the new Eliminators), so I made a second choice of TFS23* heads. Now I'm about ready to buy I've found that the AFR heads are only about $100 more than TFS heads. So, I'm again considering a set of AFR180s. BUT, here's the tech question (& this forum needs it!), at what point would 195's make more sense?
Current motor is running stock pistons, Performer 2101 intake, 1.52:1 rockers, 2 1/2" duals on Dynomax 1 5/8" headers & a Crane cam with .440"/454" & 210/216 @ 0.05", 114lca (computer friendly). 2.87:1 rear end (3.55:1 possibly lined up to throw in there in the near future), a 200-4r trans & a 2200rpm stall converter. Stock wheels & 255/60 15 tyres.
The original plan was to go for the AFR180's as they flow (apparently) the same as many competitors 195 heads, but with a higher port velocity so that low end torque is kept at a decent level. The cam I'm running is nothing special, but if I was to jump for the 180's would I be restricting myself for any future upgrades to cam? NB. I'm very unlikely to fit a roller cam with large durations/lifts/overlaps as fuel economy is fairly important (at $9 (NINE!!!)/gallon it has to be!). I can't see me ever wanting to go any higher than 0.52 lift & if ever that became an option then a 4 bolt crate motor would be on the cards. Oh yes, probably going for the 65cc chambers. So, the only potential modification in the future would be to fit a better cam. But how do I know at what "level" of cam an AFR195 head would be a better choice than a 180?
This engine won't be used (much) on the strip & it's prime purpose is street use.
TIA

 

I believe AFR claims there new 180 eliminator can flow as much air
as there older 195, You have a performer intake very
modest low rpm cam you are using can't see a 195 eliminator.
If your going to build a big small block that turns some revs in
the future I could see the 195 eliminator. Everthing you have done
1 5/8 headers, performer intake, mild cam points to a low rpm
torque engine, why throw big runner heads on it, I'm asumming
you have a 350, even if you go to a higher rpm cam the 180
runner eliminator will flow plenty of air for what your doing.

 

Thanks LM, that was what I was thinking. Just want to check that I'm not restricting any future mild upgrades (staying with a 350, probably just a better street cam).