I have a 455 for my 1970 Olds 442. I have seen so many different opinions on whether or not to put in original or hardened in.
It's not fully rebuilt yet so if I have it done now is the time but I am not convinced it is needed. I am an all original guy
and I don't mind putting in some lead even though some say thats not needed either. I know the type of motor matters
so what is your advice on putting them in or not? I think it would also decrease HP (not sure how much but a hunch) if I am thinking right but
who has some advice?

 

As you stated some do and some don't, doubt it will take away HP. I don't have hardened seats and don't use a lead additive.

 

If the engine isn’t going to be run hard, or at higher engine speeds for hours on end, you will probably be fine. If the engine was going in a motor home, tow vehicle, or something with steep gears and was going to be a interstate cruiser, then I may be worried. Having said that, I’d spend some time with a calculator and do some math. It’s not hard to spend as much money properly rebuilding factory heads as it would to upgrade to aftermarket heads that will perform better than stock. Not to mention, they will already have the needed parts for today’s crappy fuel

 

Hi Matt,

Are you saying it might make sense to scrap the original headers and get aftermarket ones? Let me know if
I had that right. Seems like a bad idea though as the original F headers on the W-30 are what everyone wants.

Thanks!

 

heads, not headers.

 

Oh, lol sorry.....yes. I thought that was odd but should have reread.