Vortec Heads
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 47
Likes: 0
From: Royse City Texas
Vortec Heads
If you change to the vortec heads I understand you have to change the Intake and valve covers but do you have to change rocker arms,pushrods, or headers?
If you have Flat top pistons what is the max lift cam you can safley use with the Vortec heads.
Always looking for a budget upgrade!
David
If you have Flat top pistons what is the max lift cam you can safley use with the Vortec heads.
Always looking for a budget upgrade!
David
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 3,030
Likes: 17
From: White Pine / Dandridge TN
Re: Vortec Heads (countryvette)
I installed Vortec heads about 2 years ago. They use a self aligning rockers and center bolt valve covers. They will accept most headers for SBchevy. I use Dynomax ceramic coated headers. And yes you will need a vortec specific intake. Stock vortec heads have weak factory springs. My heads were upgraded with stronger springs although I don't know my total lift.
Regards,
Jim
[Modified by Jim73, 4:46 PM 11/7/2001]
Regards,
Jim
[Modified by Jim73, 4:46 PM 11/7/2001]
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 9,662
Likes: 7
From: Semper ubi, sub ubi
Cruise-In VI Veteran
Cruise-In VII Veteran
Re: Vortec Heads (countryvette)
Intake, rocker covers and rockers yes, Vortec requires self aligning rockers or you have to use guideplates. The Vortecs are limited to .470 total lift cams, but not for piston clearence. The Vortec valve guides are bigger than normal and if the cam lift is too high, the spring retainer can smash into the the valve stem seal.
Vortec Springs are also fairly weak, but in order to use different springs it is necessary to have the valve guide bosses machined down so that stronger springs and a higher lift cam can be used.
Headers shouldn't be any trouble.
Vortec Springs are also fairly weak, but in order to use different springs it is necessary to have the valve guide bosses machined down so that stronger springs and a higher lift cam can be used.
Headers shouldn't be any trouble.
