I may end up with a '64 Dynamic 88 Convertible within the next few days here and it has the 394 in it. I am no mechanic or Oldsmobile guru yet, but can I put the high compression heads from a Starfire on the regular 394 and have an ultra high compression engine? Whats the difference and what do I need to carry over from a parts '63-64 Ultra High Compression Starfire engine that I may end up with as well? The Starfire engine is frozen right now, but I should be able to get it loose, but if not...I would like to swap heads and intake. Thanks for the help.

 

The Starfire heads are identical to regular 394 heads with the exception of '61 Starfire heads and different casting letters. The only things that differed from regular 394's and Starfires were pistons and I believe camshafts...and the important shiny valve covers and air cleaner..If your swapping heads, try to stick with identical years.. I tried putting '62 394 heads on a '59 394 block and learned THE OIL PASSAGES DO NOT LINE UP

 

Thanks. No problem with that since its a 64-64 Starfire engine and the 88 is a '64. So the heads do not make it higher compression??? No need to swap heads if they are identical. Thanks

 

If the heads are the same why would the heads be marked differently in the serial number?
Pat