So we got the 455 out of my olds. It's off to the machine shop tomorrow. I have a chance to purchase a set of built C heads. Question is, should I buy them? Below is the ad for the heads. Let me know what you think. Thanks for any help. Suppose to go purchase these today....... 02/12/12

"Oldsmobile C casting heads built by Joe Mondelo, were on running motor, ready to bolt on with roller rockers, stainless valves, competion cam roller rockers, push rod guides."

 

If the price is right. I believe there were different build levels on Mondello heads. Comments I've read are that the ones done a few years back when Joe was there may be better than what's coming out the door today. But like anything, look them over and see what's been done before pulling out the checkbook. John

 

Just think how much you will pay to rebuild your current heads. Very expensive. So if the price is right, and they check out as heads in good shape, they are worth grabbing. I wouldn't be too worried about the heads performance wise unless you are going to race your car. i am sure a decent set of rebuilt heads would do just fine for day to day driving.

My $.02

 

The heads were on a running 1970 SX which the guy is changing to aluminum heads..... Reason he's selling the "C" Heads is $$$ He is firm on $1000 which I think is all the money. Still cheaper than buying Edelbrock Aluminum or having my Ga Heads redone. What do you think? Thanks again

 

You should be able to have your heads re done for less than$1,000.00. I paid $650.00 for mine 1 year ago.

 

I just bought a set of big valve c heads $200,the machinist charged me $1100 for guides,new valves,seats,some port work,had them inspected and milled to ensure flatness. Another $380 for some Harland sharp rockers and I still need spring and keepers,sh$t is not cheap!

 

It really boils down to what you want. IF you want the extra performance stuff then they are worth the extra chunk of change.
But if a typical good set of rebuilt heads will do, then rebuilding yours is the way to go.

You really should check out what it will cost for rebuilding your heads. New stainless valves can be expensive.

 

I'd say 'go for it' for a few reasons:
You don't know, until inspected, what your heads are gonna need, or how much.
$1000 is a pretty good deal, considering all that's done, plus the roller rockers!
You still have the 'original' heads, to sell or keep for backup!

 

If they're ready to bolt on, make sure the spring setup will work with your cam.
Installed spring height etc.

 

Well I didn't buy the heads. Turns out, the aluminum heads the guy was going to replace the C heads with, one of them is warped. He called me an hour before I was suppose to leave to pick up the C's and told me he was going to keep the C heads. Total waste of time driving out to look at them yesterday but maybe it was for the best, I'll never know. So, I've decided to have a valve job done on my existing heads & my nephew/mechanic/builder says he can rebuild them & make them better than they are & it will be just enough for what I want. I'm not trying to build a rocket ship (pun intended lol), get it? Rocket? LOL...... I'm just trying to make lots of horse power & lots of Thump Noise. I'll try to keep this thread updated if anyone wants to follow along.

Plan B......... It's always good to have a Plan B, even a Plan C when it comes to rebuilding a machine.

 

I've looked all over & can't find any C Heads in my area so for now, we've decided to rebuild the Ga Heads & do some grinding to create better flow which the C heads are known for. We'll see how this all goes. To be continued................

 

If you really want C's then create a parts wanted thread including what part of the country/world your in. I've got lots of extra heads and believe several other members here do as well.

But if you've got the ability to port the Ga heads you can make them flow really well too. John

 

Yeah, my nephew is building the motor & he knows what he's doing so I'm sure the Ga's will be just as good as C's if not better if that's possible. New question if you don't mind guys.............

Which Clutch Set Up?

I've had two suggestions: Center Force (Centerforce #DF148552) vs. Ram (Ram Clutches #798-98764)

Or if you have a suggestion.......... I will not be Drag Racing this car. It's main use is to go to car cruises & shows. No spinning tires on this one. Well, maybe just once LOL. Thanks for any help.