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12-12-2024, 12:46 PM | #1 |
Registered User
Join Date: Aug 2022
Location: winneconne, wisco
Posts: 53
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350 roller cam engine, what yrs???
new to this small block stuff, what yrs had a roller cam, and what is the deal with the vortec heads?
thanks!! |
12-12-2024, 01:23 PM | #2 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2015
Location: washington
Posts: 2,295
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Re: 350 roller cam engine, what yrs???
GM first began installing roller cams in some Chevrolet small-block, V8-equipped cars in 1987. But OE roller-cam installations in trucks didn't occur until 1995.
Vortec heads caused a huge jump in airflow and swirl, bumping the HP significantly. Vortec heads also require a matching intake manifold to work correctly. If I were sourcing an engine, the later, the better. You will get a better-sealed engine with a one-piece rear main seal and center-hung valve covers that don't leak. You will also get higher-flowing heads and a roller cam. Old is for restorations, in my humble opinion. |
12-12-2024, 05:05 PM | #3 |
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Join Date: Dec 1999
Location: Mesa AZ
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Re: 350 roller cam engine, what yrs???
Nope, and yet they are always covered in oil and dirt.....
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12-12-2024, 05:26 PM | #4 |
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Location: Chehalis, WA
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Re: 350 roller cam engine, what yrs???
A few additional comments.
Most late model GEN I roller cam blocks don't have the hole for a mechanical fuel pump pushrod, requiring either an electric pump or a machine shop with the correct jig to drill, ream, and hone it. Vortec heads are great, but stock they are lift-limited to about .460 or so. This is easily addressed with some machine work and/or valve spring replacement and honestly there's not a ton of flow with more lift. Aftermarket versions that aren't lift-limited are readily available. Keep in mind the intake is different. You probably know all this, but better to find out before you start bolting stuff together... |
12-13-2024, 03:45 PM | #5 |
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Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Oklahoma City, OK
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Re: 350 roller cam engine, what yrs???
SBCs are wonderful for being fairly compatible parts wise over the entire lifespan. Vortec heads will happily fit on a block of the 60's assuming bore sizes match. HEI dizzy in a engine that came original with points. Late model serpentine belts setup on early model engines. Or vice-versa if desired.
You need to double check details like Willshook mentioned about the fuel pump pushrod but generally the parts play well together. |
12-15-2024, 10:17 PM | #6 | |
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Re: 350 roller cam engine, what yrs???
Quote:
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12-16-2024, 08:41 AM | #7 |
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Join Date: Aug 2022
Location: winneconne, wisco
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Re: 350 roller cam engine, what yrs???
Thanks for the help! i will look for the L31, swap the cam and intake and see what it does!
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