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A little help with performance mods

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Old Mar 14, 2012 | 11:56 PM
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Default A little help with performance mods

Thanks for taking the time to read this!

I have a '79 C3 with what I believe is an L05.
Motor and trans are not original to the car. Through my research of the casting numbers and engine code I'm pretty sure its an L05. Also I cannot find where the partial vin is stamped on this block. I wonder if its too damaged to read of if I am simply looking in the wrong place.

Block Casting #14093638
Head Casting #14102193
Engine Code - V0713HSA
Edelbrock Performer Intake
Edelbrock 600cfm Carb (not sure of the # I dont have it with me)

I am not 100% certain of the engine code. i know the first 5 characters are correct, but i'm uncertain of the "HSA" suffix. It *might* be TPA

I know the heads are 'Swirl Port' and are limited in their performance uses (high torque @ low RPM if i'm not mistaken) and the valve covers are center bolt.

The first thing I'm looking for is a nice pair of vortec heads.
  1. Do I need to replace the springs in the vortec heads?
  2. If so do I need NEW springs or can I use the ones out of the 193 heads?
  3. Am I correct that the "biggest" lift cam I can use is .46 without modifying the heads?
  4. Can I use an aftermarket flat tappet cam or do I NEED to upgrade to a roller setup?
  5. Is there anything I havent mentioned that is involved in swapping over to the vortec's?

I know I have a lot of questions, so I really appreciate any help you guys can offer!

Also if anyone has any other "low-budget" suggestion feel free!

Thanks
-Anthony
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Old Mar 15, 2012 | 11:44 AM
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this is from the GM Performance Parts Catalogue and may answer some of your questions. You can download the catalog from a number of sites.
A. 12558060
Cast-iron Vortec Cylinder Head Assembly
• Completely assembled with 1.940"/1.500" valves
• Uses bare head 12529093
• 64cc combustion chamber
• Straight spark plugs
• No heat risers
• Requires Vortec-specific intake manifold
• Camshafts with more than 0.475" lift require machining valve guide
bosses and checking valve seal to valve spring retainer clearance
• Can be machined for 2.020"/1.600" valves
• Rocker arm studs can be pinned or drilled and tapped to 3/8"
• Valve spring seat diameter is 1.280"
• Casting number 10239906 or 12558062
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Old Mar 15, 2012 | 05:32 PM
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Thanks for the response and the info. I can see it answers my lift question but I am still not clear on the others.
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Old Mar 16, 2012 | 02:01 PM
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Been doing some more reading and I WILL be replacing the springs. If I got a 272H10 from comp cams would that work well with the vortec heads after the swap? I'm trying to keep up drivability and gas milage while getting a nice performance boost
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Old Mar 16, 2012 | 08:42 PM
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Anyone?
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