81' 350 With 81' 305 Heads - leave or scrap?

[ECU PIRATE]

Well men........... Since we finally got the old motor pulled, it's time to freshen up the replacement. I have that 81' 350 that I picked up for $300 with 305 large valve heads on it. Since I am on a serious budget as of late, should I keep these or change them out? I have a set of 71' 336x heads off of a chevelle that need valve guides and a pair of heads off of a 69' 350 truck motor that will probably need a complete rebuild. Any advice? Need to get the truck somewhat buttoned up before the fall..........................

[83burban]

If your on a budget build, then you'll be on a budget for gas too I'm assuming.

305 heads will increase compression, requiring a higher octane fuel. My vote would be the Chevelle heads that you have, they will flow correctly for a 350 and wont require the use of high octane fuel unless they have smaller combustion chambers.

If I were you, I would sell my other 2 sets of heads for 75 each pair, and with the 150 put it towards having the Chevelle heads reconditioned - that way you have new heads and haven't spent tons to do them.

[BigBlocksRule]

It'll be cheaper in the long run to pick up a pair of Vortec heads and an intake. Plus, you'll make a lot more power than the old stuff.

[355bullet]

Vortec heads!

[ECU PIRATE]

All good thoughts but, the 350 is only temporary until I can fund my 396 build. I may check with my buddy (he is a Ford guy) and see where he is getting his motor work done and see how much it will cost for some new valve guides in my extra heads. If all else fails, I will just run those 305 heads for awhile. I have not driven this truck since May of last year so, I am itching to get back on the road and light the tires up....................

[BigBlocksRule]

Are you talking about a 4" stroke smallblock 396 or a big block 396? I big block 396 build is a waste, IMHO. Same block dimensions, same heads but much smaller bore makes for poor breathing and much less power as compared to a 427 or 454. And once it's between the frame rails, nobody can tell the difference!

[mooseknuckles]

Originally Posted by BigBlocksRule

Are you talking about a 4" stroke smallblock 396 or a big block 396? I big block 396 build is a waste, IMHO. Same block dimensions, same heads but much smaller bore makes for poor breathing and much less power as compared to a 427 or 454. And once it's between the frame rails, nobody can tell the difference!

I agree scrap the 396 idea, go with a 454 or build the 350. now a 427 smallblock would be awesome!