aluminum heads
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2021
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aluminum heads
Well ok now! I called AFR asking about aluminum heads for my 1973 L-82 4spd with a 3:55 rear, 2101 performer intake, and stock cam. Looking for better performance. They said none of their heads are made in the USA. Are any aluminum head made in the US? Want to replace stock cast iron heads. Thought loaded 180’s - 195’s with 64cc chambers would help. Also, will replace stock exhaust manifold with Doug’s ceramic headers. Suggestions?
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2016
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From: Wauconda IL
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2021
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From: Minnesota
Great recommendations in this thread for a peppier L82. Especially post #21. And yes, Trick Flow heads are made in America too.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2021
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From: Fleming Island, FL
There was a TV series a few years ago called the "Boneyard" on the Discovery channel. They showed the scrapping of a Boeing 747 and the scrap aluminum went to the Edelbrock foundry.
Drifting
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 1,920
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From: Angier nc
I haven't done a small block Chevy in years but if I were to do another (and I may as I have some parts just in case) 350 or smaller I would be looking at 175-180cc heads for a mild 350 such as yours. Trick flow is great quality IMO and Edelbrock isn't as good from what my machinist tells me. Brodix or Dart fine by me. On a budget there are some china heads I may consider,like the ones Skip White sells on eBay.
Any of them would be checked over by my machinist friend before I would run them. Valve guides,valve job,springs,locks and retainers.
I bought a new set of Trick Flow big block Mopar heads last year and they needed nothing.
Any of them would be checked over by my machinist friend before I would run them. Valve guides,valve job,springs,locks and retainers.
I bought a new set of Trick Flow big block Mopar heads last year and they needed nothing.
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Pro
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From: Aubrey TX
Im running E-Street heads on my 73 L82. They work great. I also changed to the longer comp cams roller tip rockers (I also recurve the distributor). The swap made a huge difference in performance but I also took a huge NCRS points hit last fall so I might be removing them, not sure yet.
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2025
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Pro-Filer heads are USA
FWIW 1.6:1 rocker arms are not longer.
If fact, it's the short arm that's changed. The short side of 1.6:1 is little shorter than 1.5:1 short side.
The long arm's length shouldn't change at all & should remain constant.
That's why heads' pushrod holes often require a little elongating; to prevent PR from binding in it.
FWIW 1.6:1 rocker arms are not longer.
If fact, it's the short arm that's changed. The short side of 1.6:1 is little shorter than 1.5:1 short side.
The long arm's length shouldn't change at all & should remain constant.
That's why heads' pushrod holes often require a little elongating; to prevent PR from binding in it.
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I've been running Edlebrock heads for years now. I understand that they are not the very peak performance heads. But they are still heaps better than stock. And the price was right. And many miles later. No issues whatsoever. I think that counts for something.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 7,455
Likes: 977
From: RI, Now Franklin/Nashville TN
I rebuilt/upgraded imy 78 L-82 4 speed with 3.70 gears in 2014 with AFR Eliminator 180 64 CC heads (which are fantastic for power and reliability, and quality) and was not surprised, initially, with your post that AFR heads are no longer made in the USA BUT when all the others chimed in about the USA made aluminum heads I decided to do a search about AFR. Below is what came back:
"AFR (Air Flow Research) Eliminator SBC (Small Block Chevy) cylinder heads are manufactured in the United States.
Specifically, the company operates a 30,000-square-foot facility in Valencia, California (just north of Los Angeles). According to AFR, they maintain full control over the process by performing the design, casting refinement, and 5-axis CNC porting at this Southern California location.
While the raw aluminum castings may be sourced from specialized domestic foundries, the critical machining, assembly, and quality control that define the "Eliminator" series take place at their Valencia headquarters.".
I would double check the source of your original info since something seems amiss. If you are looking for a reliable source for the AFR production information, check out Tony Mamo on the C6 Z06 forum since he was the chief designer at AFR before leaving a few years ago to start his own LS cylinder head company. Extremely personal and easy to contact. I have spoke with him live on the phone about my 2010 C6 Z06 LS7 aluminum 427 engine. He still lives in CA and I am sure can give you the real skinny on AFR.
As for my build of the OEM L-82 using the AFR 180 heads, along with 10.2-10.3 compression, Howards Roller cam (.525 Lift, Duration 219/225, LSA 110, operating range 1,500-5,600 RPM), L-82 mildly ported Aluminum intake, Holley 4175 Qjet replacement 650 CFM carb) 1 7/8 inch LTH headers with C4 Borla Type S mufflers, the motor is, lets say, extremely powerful, especially as built for the street, with BIG mid range torque 2,500-4,500 RPM with strong power to 6,000 RPM. I was quite impressed with the new L-82 355, coming from the OEM L-82 220 Net HP and compared to my more modern Z06 with 505 Net HP in a 3,100 lbs C6 "track" car on the street.
"AFR (Air Flow Research) Eliminator SBC (Small Block Chevy) cylinder heads are manufactured in the United States.
Specifically, the company operates a 30,000-square-foot facility in Valencia, California (just north of Los Angeles). According to AFR, they maintain full control over the process by performing the design, casting refinement, and 5-axis CNC porting at this Southern California location.
While the raw aluminum castings may be sourced from specialized domestic foundries, the critical machining, assembly, and quality control that define the "Eliminator" series take place at their Valencia headquarters.".
I would double check the source of your original info since something seems amiss. If you are looking for a reliable source for the AFR production information, check out Tony Mamo on the C6 Z06 forum since he was the chief designer at AFR before leaving a few years ago to start his own LS cylinder head company. Extremely personal and easy to contact. I have spoke with him live on the phone about my 2010 C6 Z06 LS7 aluminum 427 engine. He still lives in CA and I am sure can give you the real skinny on AFR.
As for my build of the OEM L-82 using the AFR 180 heads, along with 10.2-10.3 compression, Howards Roller cam (.525 Lift, Duration 219/225, LSA 110, operating range 1,500-5,600 RPM), L-82 mildly ported Aluminum intake, Holley 4175 Qjet replacement 650 CFM carb) 1 7/8 inch LTH headers with C4 Borla Type S mufflers, the motor is, lets say, extremely powerful, especially as built for the street, with BIG mid range torque 2,500-4,500 RPM with strong power to 6,000 RPM. I was quite impressed with the new L-82 355, coming from the OEM L-82 220 Net HP and compared to my more modern Z06 with 505 Net HP in a 3,100 lbs C6 "track" car on the street.
Last edited by jb78L-82; Mar 12, 2026 at 11:54 AM.
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 11,953
Likes: 4,510
From: Virginia
241 and 243 heads from the original Gen III LS engines (LS1 and LS6) were made in USA. Later 799 heads, and it seems all Gen IV heads (LS3, etc), are made by Castech in Mexico. If you were willing to drop $2K on a pair of heads, consider upgrading everything else, too.
I'm surprised by the answer you got from AFR. I thought only their "Enforcer" line of heads were imported, and only the castings at that. Their heads are assembled in the USA, as @jb78L-82 pointed out.
Anyway, here's another thread on Trick Flow heads. You may find more useful info if you look for old posts by @Jebbysan
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...hump-head.html
I'm surprised by the answer you got from AFR. I thought only their "Enforcer" line of heads were imported, and only the castings at that. Their heads are assembled in the USA, as @jb78L-82 pointed out.
Anyway, here's another thread on Trick Flow heads. You may find more useful info if you look for old posts by @Jebbysan
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...hump-head.html
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2021
Posts: 31
Likes: 7
heads
I rebuilt/upgraded imy 78 L-82 4 speed with 3.70 gears in 2014 with AFR Eliminator 180 64 CC heads (which are fantastic for power and reliability, and quality) and was not surprised, initially, with your post that AFR heads are no longer made in the USA BUT when all the others chimed in about the USA made aluminum heads I decided to do a search about AFR. Below is what came back:
"AFR (Air Flow Research) Eliminator SBC (Small Block Chevy) cylinder heads are manufactured in the United States.
Specifically, the company operates a 30,000-square-foot facility in Valencia, California (just north of Los Angeles). According to AFR, they maintain full control over the process by performing the design, casting refinement, and 5-axis CNC porting at this Southern California location.
While the raw aluminum castings may be sourced from specialized domestic foundries, the critical machining, assembly, and quality control that define the "Eliminator" series take place at their Valencia headquarters.".
I would double check the source of your original info since something seems amiss. If you are looking for a reliable source for the AFR production information, check out Tony Mamo on the C6 Z06 forum since he was the chief designer at AFR before leaving a few years ago to start his own LS cylinder head company. Extremely personal and easy to contact. I have spoke with him live on the phone about my 2010 C6 Z06 LS7 aluminum 427 engine. He still lives in CA and I am sure can give you the real skinny on AFR.
As for my build of the OEM L-82 using the AFR 180 heads, along with 10.2-10.3 compression, Howards Roller cam (.525 Lift, Duration 219/225, LSA 110, operating range 1,500-5,600 RPM), L-82 mildly ported Aluminum intake, Holley 4175 Qjet replacement 650 CFM carb) 1 7/8 inch LTH headers with C4 Borla Type S mufflers, the motor is, lets say, extremely powerful, especially as built for the street, with BIG mid range torque 2,500-4,500 RPM with strong power to 6,000 RPM. I was quite impressed with the new L-82 355, coming from the OEM L-82 220 Net HP and compared to my more modern Z06 with 505 Net HP in a 3,100 lbs C6 "track" car on the street.
"AFR (Air Flow Research) Eliminator SBC (Small Block Chevy) cylinder heads are manufactured in the United States.
Specifically, the company operates a 30,000-square-foot facility in Valencia, California (just north of Los Angeles). According to AFR, they maintain full control over the process by performing the design, casting refinement, and 5-axis CNC porting at this Southern California location.
While the raw aluminum castings may be sourced from specialized domestic foundries, the critical machining, assembly, and quality control that define the "Eliminator" series take place at their Valencia headquarters.".
I would double check the source of your original info since something seems amiss. If you are looking for a reliable source for the AFR production information, check out Tony Mamo on the C6 Z06 forum since he was the chief designer at AFR before leaving a few years ago to start his own LS cylinder head company. Extremely personal and easy to contact. I have spoke with him live on the phone about my 2010 C6 Z06 LS7 aluminum 427 engine. He still lives in CA and I am sure can give you the real skinny on AFR.
As for my build of the OEM L-82 using the AFR 180 heads, along with 10.2-10.3 compression, Howards Roller cam (.525 Lift, Duration 219/225, LSA 110, operating range 1,500-5,600 RPM), L-82 mildly ported Aluminum intake, Holley 4175 Qjet replacement 650 CFM carb) 1 7/8 inch LTH headers with C4 Borla Type S mufflers, the motor is, lets say, extremely powerful, especially as built for the street, with BIG mid range torque 2,500-4,500 RPM with strong power to 6,000 RPM. I was quite impressed with the new L-82 355, coming from the OEM L-82 220 Net HP and compared to my more modern Z06 with 505 Net HP in a 3,100 lbs C6 "track" car on the street.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2021
Posts: 31
Likes: 7
I too was surprised by the answer (many have said they are the best?) about AFR heads not made in the US. I called AFR on their # 877 - 892 - 8844 and spoke to whom ever answered their #. I prefer to buy USA made products when possible. My 1973 L-82 3:55 rear 4spd, engine was rebuilt at 100,000 and now has 33,000 on rebuild. Has 2101 performer intake, 1406 carb 600cfm, electronic ignition, stock 1973 L-82 heads, new heavy duty timing chain and Dewitt radiator. Have purchased Doug’s ceramic headers was want to get the best fitment (heads to headers). In addition, looking to improve performance. thanks for your feedback - best wishes, and good health to you and your family!!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 7,455
Likes: 977
From: RI, Now Franklin/Nashville TN
I too was surprised by the answer (many have said they are the best?) about AFR heads not made in the US. I called AFR on their # 877 - 892 - 8844 and spoke to whom ever answered their #. I prefer to buy USA made products when possible. My 1973 L-82 3:55 rear 4spd, engine was rebuilt at 100,000 and now has 33,000 on rebuild. Has 2101 performer intake, 1406 carb 600cfm, electronic ignition, stock 1973 L-82 heads, new heavy duty timing chain and Dewitt radiator. Have purchased Doug’s ceramic headers was want to get the best fitment (heads to headers). In addition, looking to improve performance. thanks for your feedback - best wishes, and good health to you and your family!!
Here is a second source that pretty much confirms that AFR heads are made in the USA!
Direct from AFR's website:"Founded in 1970 by Ken Sperling, Air Flow Research pioneered the process of CNC porting cylinders heads which is now common practice in today's automotive industry. Over the last 45 years we have been defining technological leadership and flow dynamics in the pursuit of increased performance. This commitment has enabled Air Flow Research to find themselves on the fastest race cars and the most powerful street machines in the country.
Utilizing modern manufacturing techniques and the latest in machinery, such as a Browne & Sharpe Coordinate Measuring Machine, fifteen Haas’ 5-AXIS CNC machines, two Mazaks, four Newen Epoc valve machines, Two Mori Seiki 42 pallet systems, and three VF4 Haas machines. AFR stays true to this commitment by manufacturing each piece in our Valencia, California facility just 30 minutes north of Los Angeles."
There is no way a company like AFR would have this information ^^^^^^ on their website if it was not true...That would be called fraud.
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 11,953
Likes: 4,510
From: Virginia
AFR Eliminator heads are the best!
Here is a second source that pretty much confirms that AFR heads are made in the USA!
Direct from AFR's website:"Founded in 1970 by Ken Sperling, Air Flow Research pioneered the process of CNC porting cylinders heads which is now common practice in today's automotive industry. Over the last 45 years we have been defining technological leadership and flow dynamics in the pursuit of increased performance. This commitment has enabled Air Flow Research to find themselves on the fastest race cars and the most powerful street machines in the country.
Utilizing modern manufacturing techniques and the latest in machinery, such as a Browne & Sharpe Coordinate Measuring Machine, fifteen Haas’ 5-AXIS CNC machines, two Mazaks, four Newen Epoc valve machines, Two Mori Seiki 42 pallet systems, and three VF4 Haas machines. AFR stays true to this commitment by manufacturing each piece in our Valencia, California facility just 30 minutes north of Los Angeles."
There is no way a company like AFR would have this information ^^^^^^ on their website if it was not true...That would be called fraud.
Here is a second source that pretty much confirms that AFR heads are made in the USA!
Direct from AFR's website:"Founded in 1970 by Ken Sperling, Air Flow Research pioneered the process of CNC porting cylinders heads which is now common practice in today's automotive industry. Over the last 45 years we have been defining technological leadership and flow dynamics in the pursuit of increased performance. This commitment has enabled Air Flow Research to find themselves on the fastest race cars and the most powerful street machines in the country.
Utilizing modern manufacturing techniques and the latest in machinery, such as a Browne & Sharpe Coordinate Measuring Machine, fifteen Haas’ 5-AXIS CNC machines, two Mazaks, four Newen Epoc valve machines, Two Mori Seiki 42 pallet systems, and three VF4 Haas machines. AFR stays true to this commitment by manufacturing each piece in our Valencia, California facility just 30 minutes north of Los Angeles."
There is no way a company like AFR would have this information ^^^^^^ on their website if it was not true...That would be called fraud.
Originally Posted by Grok
Air Flow Research (AFR) cylinder heads are primarily designed, CNC-ported/machined, and fully assembled in the USA at their facility in Valencia, California. However, the raw castings (the bare aluminum blanks) come from different sources depending on the specific line/model.AFR offers two main tiers of aluminum cylinder heads (for SBC, BBC, LS, Ford, etc.):
- Premium / High-End Lines (e.g., Eliminator, Renegade, Magnum, Mongoose, most CNC-ported heads like 195, 210, 227, 245 cc SBC; 260+ cc BBC; LS series, etc.):
These use USA-made castings (historically often supplied by foundries like Edelbrock or other domestic partners). They are fully machined and assembled in the USA. These are the "Made in the USA" heads AFR emphasizes for superior quality, consistency, and performance potential (especially when CNC-ported). Older AFR heads (pre-~2018–2020) were almost exclusively this category. - Budget / Enforcer Series (e.g., AFR Enforcer 195 cc SBC, some 185/210 variants, Enforcer 335 BBC, etc.):
These use imported castings, primarily from China (overseas suppliers). The castings are often smoother or different in finish compared to US ones. AFR then machines, ports (or leaves as-cast), and assembles them in the USA using the same high-quality components (e.g., PAC springs, stainless valves, ARP hardware, adjustable guide plates). They carry the same warranty as the premium lines and are positioned as an affordable option without sacrificing too much performance for street/strip use. Some users note the Chinese castings can be very good quality (sometimes smoother externally), but the premium USA-cast ones are preferred for max power builds or those avoiding imports.
- Check the product description on AFR's official site (airflowresearch.com) or authorized dealers—it usually specifies if it's "Enforcer" (imported casting) or the standard CNC line (USA casting).
- Enforcer heads are often labeled as "assembled in USA" but note the casting origin as overseas/China.
- Older videos/forums show visual differences in casting texture/marks to tell USA vs. China castings apart (e.g., smoother Chinese ones in some cases).
- Not all AFR heads are imported—only the budget Enforcer line shifted to China castings to hit lower price points (~$900–$1,200/pair assembled vs. $1,500+ for premium).
- AFR does not appear to use Mexican castings based on reports; it's mainly USA for premium and China for Enforcer.
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2025
Posts: 1,727
Likes: 600
241 and 243 heads from the original Gen III LS engines (LS1 and LS6) were made in USA. Later 799 heads, and it seems all Gen IV heads (LS3, etc), are made by Castech in Mexico. If you were willing to drop $2K on a pair of heads, consider upgrading everything else, too.
I'm surprised by the answer you got from AFR. I thought only their "Enforcer" line of heads were imported, and only the castings at that. Their heads are assembled in the USA, ...............
Anyway, here's another thread on Trick Flow heads. You may find more useful info if you look for old posts by @Jebbysan
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...hump-head.html
I'm surprised by the answer you got from AFR. I thought only their "Enforcer" line of heads were imported, and only the castings at that. Their heads are assembled in the USA, ...............
Anyway, here's another thread on Trick Flow heads. You may find more useful info if you look for old posts by @Jebbysan
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...hump-head.html
Seems overwhelmingly clear, that AFR Enforcer heads are china castings; and other AFRs are not.
Years back, when news surfaced of AFR releasing a new budget or value line, I contacted AFR and asked where Enforcer castings originated and was told China.
It's my understanding their "Eliminator" line continues to be wholly manufactured in USA. Of course that, or other details about any AFR CoO, is probably not truly KNOWN by anyone here who's not a direct employee / officer of AFR. And, like any business facts ascertained today, those can turn on a dime; before the **** crows.
Lotsa knowledgeable folk may still be unawares of BHJ Dynamics decision to cease production of its exquisite auto machine shop fixturing-tooling.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 7,455
Likes: 977
From: RI, Now Franklin/Nashville TN
All day, AFR 180's...they will provide superior power throughout the area under the power curve, screaming to 6,000 RPM. Bigger cam and 6500+ RPM's, AFR 195's or 383+ cubes.