Vortec Heads Temp Flucuation
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 304
Likes: 0
From: Pasadena Maryland
Vortec Heads Temp Flucuation
I want to thank Stephen for his imput. He hit it right on the head. You need a bypass on the water pump, however the fix is very simple. I called a friend who used to own a vette shop and he said all I had to do is drill a 1/8" hole in the thermostat to relieve the pressuse caused by the vortec design. It works just fine and all you have to do is by a new thermostat gasket. By the way with the new Heads, Intake, Headers, Cam, and new Street Avenger Holley the 78 dynoed out at 402 HP at the rear wheels. Not bad for a 78 L82 that came with 220 HP. Thanks to everyone :hurray:
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 304
Likes: 0
From: Pasadena Maryland
Re: Vortec Heads Temp Flucuation (79VetteMike)
Didn't believe the numbers myself. I was expecting around 360HP. Will have to be very careful of the stock lower end but for the record I did the following to my engine. New cam and lifters .460 lift (mid range torque). GM casting # 12558060 Vortec Heads with Edelbrock Non EGR intake p/n ED7116. New Holley 670cfm Street Avenger Carb. Accel Blueprinted distributor with high output coil. Hooker Jet Coated Headers connected to true dual FlowMasters with no converters. Original 4 speed was overhauled a few years ago and is very strong. I do not intend to race or abuse my vette just wanted a little more power. I also have an aftermarket L88 High Rise hood to accomodate the new top end. It is considerably higher. Had to top it off with a K & N Oval filter because the original wouldn't fit anymore. All in All I'm very pleased with the outcome. Will post some pictures when my son gets home from college with our digital camera.
