Hey guys I have been looking through threads for a while but wanted some more specific help. I have a 1970 cutlass came with the 350 rocket 2 barrel I am currently rebuilding motor and transmission new coil springs and shocks steering swapping stock radiator for a aluminum 4 core with electric fans. My main want is to make the motor bullet proof and squeeze some extra power out of it but overall I want reliable. Finding parts has been less than easy I am considering going with edelbrock heads and thought about going with roller cam but all the lifters I found are pretty pricey i know this isnt gonna be cheap but I'd like to be in motor and trans rebuild about 5k to 5500. Can y'all give some advice as to whether the heads are worth it, if the roller setup is worth it and if so where to get something good for a good price and also cam I dont want anything crazy that'll cause drivability or reliability issues. Thank you in advance for any help.

 

Be aware that the combustion chambers on those aluminum Edelbrock heads are larger volume for big block engines, which would make it harder for you to get adequate compression ratio on your small block. Also, you won't be able to bolt a mechanical fuel pump onto the engine with those heads, so you would need to use an electric pump. The factory 1970 #6 heads are very good, one of the best SBO iron heads, so consider using them.

Also be aware of which pistons are used in the rebuild. You will need fairly small dishes or even flat tops, depending upon the heads, in order to get the compression ratio right. Stay far away from the 24cc dish cast pistons as they not only have huge dishes, but are short on compression height.

CutlassEFI here on the site is a good source for parts for engine building, and there are lots of folks with a bunch of experience, so post here and ask a lot of questions.

 

Thanks for the imput. I read that the #6 heads were supposed to be good but I haven't pulled the engine yet since I'm on call this week and tinkering with the suspension. When I pull the motor if I have the 6 heads should I leave them stock besides new valves and all that jazz? Again not looking for a race car but I want to have some some get up and go when I give it the beans.

 

06turbosilverado

Not sure where you are at but I have a complete set of #6 heads available. Cheap but expensive to ship

 

southeast Louisiana here still not sure which route I'm going to take though. Lots of decisions to make