I pretty much have the same set up in my 3rd gen camaro.. Forged flat top pistons, 15 thou shim gasket, vortec heads screw in studs, ls springs and comp retainers with valve job 1.6 ratio rockers 3'42 gears 700r4 trans and it runs fantastic, pulls hard and makes a nice street driver highway cruiser with the 600 holley vac secondary.. If light foot work on highway if I had to guess I am getting 20+mpg. Its just a nice running motor fantastic driving car.
I’m getting ready to do this in a 72 chevelle try make it a good drivable car has a 0010 block bored 30 over old beefed up 882 smoggier on it at the moment
On my 3rd build for this motor first sold it didn't know what I had I bought 2 big blocks but did nothing to them just thru one in it was fun but problems was young now I built 2 top end vortec builds that's been running strong for a year 1st one still running strong after 7 8 years that I sold the big block still running good by
Good luck buddy I just did basically the same thing to my 91 camaro and the trans has already been built twice and I said fuck it and I'm putting in a 350 turbo because no matter who builds those 700R4 trans they won't last with anything above 400hp
Man that’s awesome! Makes me excited for my L31 build for my 3rd gen Pontiac lol. I think a good carb and some head work for a bigger cam is all I have left. So far on my future build “list” is: Aluminum intake, HEI distribution, long tube headers, forged flat top pistons, head work for whatever cam I choose, and a bigger stall for the 700r4 after it gets built. I have an Edelbrock 1406 right now I’ll start out with but I might switch out later on down the road for something a bit heftier
Richard, i watch every video you post and love them, share them, watch a lot of them twice or even thrice. PLEASE specify the headers as to tube length, diameter, collector diameter and length...many of your fans need to know
The L31 heads are underestimated and have great mixture motion and brake specific fuel consumption. As long as you don't eke out to much iron, they are a real advance on any other SBC grouped exhaust head. A factory Double Hump match mate.
and that's a salient point you made--people focus on how much CFM a cylinder head port can move, but if the air/fuel mixture isn't homogeneous or the combustion chamber's shape gets in the way of flame front movement across the cylinder (assuming no pop-up/domed piston) then that head isn't going to make the power it should.
I recall a car magazine Danger Mouse build some years ago and they claimed 415 hp and @400+ft/lbs torque with Vortec heads and XE262h flat tappet cam in a 355 sbc. Richard Holdener's dyno seems to be more honest than the DM6 from a magazine article from years ago.
Super Chevy. I read, and was building circle track engines for limited street stock classes back then. Used to build 377 destroked 400s with a 2bbl and could get around 360hp at the tires.
I have a L31 Forged Crank, PM rods, 9.5:1 with a Edelbrock Performer Rpm Top End 64cc heads CNC Ported/Polished heads and intake, 650 cfm AVS 2 Carb, Bullet Cams 226/234 530/530@.50 110+4 LSA, 1.5 Edelbrock Red Roller Rockers, Summit Racing LS7 Lifters, 1 7/8 Hooker Competition Headers it made 441Hp and 444 Tq with a 2200 FTI Stall and a 700r4 heavily built Trans with 3.42 Richmond 10 bolt in a 72 Nova excellent daily driver by far the best street build I have ever done...
I used to build 2bbl street stock engines. The cam I used was basically a Lunati Voodoo 294 and could get around 360 wheel Hp. We did tighten up the LSA around 106 I believe. Vortec heads were a game changer then.
Around home (central PA) when the vortec heads came out it made alot of others obsolete. Our super sportsman with big vortecs makes low 600s on alcohol with a custom cam.
@@joegabner7419 Chevy Performance lists the Bowtie Vortec heads as having 2.00" valves, the same size as their "Fast Burn" heads have. Screw in studs, with thicker bases than "stock" Vortec heads, which have pressed in studs...
Well, Rich... you have you Vortec L31 heads now, along with improved springs and a hydro-roller 350. Guess you can do that Vortec/TPI-350 build you've talked about now! Just one small suggestion: I've heard swapping the Ram-Jet 350 cam into the stock Vortec 350 w/factory long-runner intake & "spider"-injection helps wake it up, and make a real stump-puller out of it... so you might want to consider that.
I don't have a Vortec hyd roller block, or a TPI intake for Vortec heads, wouldn't use the spider injection, and would use a different cam than the Ram-Jet 350-where does that leave us?
I always wanted to put a TPI intake on my vortec truck. I don’t have that truck anymore and have an 8.1 truck now, but I always wondered how that combo would have done.
I had a setup in my k10, it was a vortec 350 motor with the edelbrock intake and carb with ls3 springs and comp cams retainers with an lt4 hotcam…. Had a little too much fun in that thing.
We really enjoy your explanations, again we in south Florida would love to see a build to really max out Torque from idle to 4800RPM's SMB chevy. for Marine uses.
@@richardholdener1727 Yes We totally understand that, however there must be a set up for lower RPM Torque again Thanks. I'm not sure if you've done any marine heavy boat set ups. But TORQUE at low RPM's is what gets them out on a plane.
I have a 96 vortec and I changed to carbureted and I put the hyd flat tappet k12-600-4 comp cam and since it's time to put it away for the winter I'm taking the engine apart and studding the heads plus I broke a rocker so now I'm Changing to 1.6 rollers rockers
Shoot. I would have started out with the xe274. I had a Monte Carlo with a old low compression shortblock and added 906 vortec heads with big springs and the xe274. 3.42 gears and a 3000 stall that I couldn't make proper use of cause I ran pepboys 295-50 radials. But even creeping out of the hole at the track is still ran 12.70s
Between the head and the block you shaved off a lot of metal, did this affect intake manifold fitment? And did you have to use custom length push rods????
Great video. I don't know why we're so addicted to 350 motor builds, but we are. Richard do you have a test video where you don't change anything on the motor but do manifolds, shorty headers, mid length and longtubes on something like this?
Really loving the vortec testing Richard thanks a bunch! Have you ever ran the tune port with vortec heads under it? Think SDPC makes the lower to make it all work. Seems like it could make a good stock appearance sleeper build up.
I’ve been checking the SDPC website for months and the Vortec TPI lower has been showing Out of Stock. I have a feeling they made one production run and when they were gone, they were gone.
@Richard Holdener HEY I have a low mileage 190 hp sbc 350 in my 73 elcamino I'm buying the L31s this week but can you give me a list of springs , cam, rockers upgrade I should use to the 400hp maybe 500hp range.
I’m taking out my 5.7 from a 98 Suburban for a rebuild. Love all this information. Question though? Pushing it up to 300+ HP will that screw up my Smog Control? Sucks I live in California. I really wanna screw with peoples heads at stop lights though
We took a motor out a 98 Z71 and milled the bosses, put an XR288HR cam in it with 987-16 springs and screw in studs and it ran 11.90s on motor in my weekend driver 1987 Z28 with a th350 and a 4200 converter with th350
The problem with the Vortec heads, is that they are very thin castings, and they crack very easily. When Richard said they cut .030" off them, I almost cringed! I'm sure they are fine as long as they dont overheat. That's what makes them crack wide open right between the two center cylinders.
The Bowtie Vortec heads are the way to go. Thicker base, 2.00" intake valves, for better breathing, without losing a lot of bottom end torque, like you would if you went to a 2.02" intake valve head. Screw in atuds, to boot. Not "cheap," but they won't break the bank, either. lol
Interesting that the lots bigger cam made no difference in power below 3250rpm and neither did raising the compression but the hood long tube headers made a big difference.
All jokes aside I love your Chanel brother you always teach me something but today I scrolled through a video a dude that looked like you or so I thought 🤣 got me thinking so I had to search it up and bam get a grip garage pops up 🤣 the weed is getting to me 😭💀🤣
what cam would you suggest for a l31 block thats been bored.060 over decked and has cast iron vortec heads with bee hive springs skip white rotatory assembly forged dish pistons,carbed havnt decided,its going in a 4x4 jeep with a 700r4,It will have 35" tires on it and rearend is 4.10 ford.I have two blocks other one is stock cleaned hasnt went to machine shop yet,good block,thanks for your vids ive been learning alot
Love the power adder 4bbl horsepower sound!! How much hp is a Richard sound effect ?? 25hp ?? Lol. Cool 😎 video. Those sbc are buildable but n/a has its limits.
I have a vortec with an LT1 rotating assembly, gm LT4 hotcam, LS6 springs, 1.6 rockers ,holley rpm air gap intake, short tube headers and a mighty Demon 650. What's your thoughts on going single turbo and e85 blow thru carb to this setup. Bottom end is rock stock . I will gap the rings. 906 heads are just a quick valve job .
One of the largest suppliers of cams is having issues with flat tappet lifter pitting. Even using recommended oils and break in procedures. Choose wisely
@@kdsboosted4954 my last build for this truck I did a very cheap build on a bone stock 190hp Goodwrench 350.. it worked for a lot of years but I found this running 1996 suburban that I'm upgrading to. It's going into a 1967 C20
Dont know what junkyard your finding these motors ...ive been searching for months....need a 350 or even 454 for my 87 gmc k10.....cant find a damm thing here in az
I'd like to see the difference as well. In theory, when under 280 advertised duration a flat tappet cam is more aggressive than a roller. Personally if I ever go roller it has to be a solid.
How About A Set Of 062 Vortec Heads With Screw In Studs, Bee Hive Valve Springs And An Edelbrock RPM Air Gap Intake On An LT1 350 360, A 327 350, A 327 365 And A DZ 302...I Think It Would Be A Very Interesting Comparison...And Then Switch The Cams Around, Put The DZ (duntov) Cam In The LT 1, Then Go Comp 268 Cam In All Of The Motors Comparing That Cam To All 3 Of The Stock Cams In The Hi Perf Small Blocks...Interesting Series Of Tests Then Just For Yuks Put A 294S In All Of Them...
If anyone is interested I have a set of these heads, an Edelbrock dual plane that fits them, couple different carbs and cams all from an old project (you could pick what you want). Shipping might be a bit steep but the seller is motivated (ie, I could use the space and cash 😁).
@@oxyjohn3051 wrote that a while ago but... yah actually I havent done a damn thing with em-theyre still in the closet downstairs somewhere. you actually interested?
@@oxyjohn3051 Cool. give me a day or so (probably less but just in case i get busy) lemme pull em out-make sure i can find everything and that they still look good etc. At that point I can give you my number and we can try to work something out. Hopefully shipping isnt a deal killer (Im philly area)
When you put Vortec heads (presumably designed with a roller cam/lifters) on an older SBC with a roller cam, do you use the pushrods designed for the Vortec heads or the pushrods designed for the flat tappet?
Didn't catch this first time around. You zero decked the short block, and then used a .015" steel shim head gasket? .015" quench total if I heard you right? Or do they make a thicker steel shim that I'm unaware of? Not nitpicking you buddy, just genuinely curious as I have a 350 I plan to do a comparable build with.
I’m wondering if the pistons being stock dished makes it where the steel shim works perfectly ………… I’m guessing (not a pro engine guy! Hobbiest) the dish allows the quench to be on target, with the .015 shim?
Hi Richard, great vid What’s the common wisdom on cam selection if this was to be a 2bbl motor with no lift rule, has to be flat tappet but can be solid
Gm 602 I need more pull out of it on a 3/8 asphalt track turning 6200 pulls hard off but runs out of the pull 1/2 way. Needs to be 9.2:1 comp flat tappett cam is only rule I’m not in a 602 class I just have a 602. What do u suggest to get this 602 to pull longer and harder cam and spring swap ??
Stock valve train can only take .480 lift….because the seals. You have to run offset keepers to gain more lift when using higher lift springs. Unless you cut the seats down. He didn’t mention any of that being done
Is there a specific part number for the spring retainers and and locks? I took my vortec heads to the machine shop and they wouldn’t do the LS valve spring swap because they said the retainers and locks wouldn’t work with the LS springs.
Hey Richard, building a motor for my boat. Stock boat manifolds. 5.7 chevy roller. The problem I'm coming across is everyone's saying they need all torque. And Don't spin over 4800 rpm. Is there a cam that pull just as good low rpm but more on top end also? Like the sloppy cam for LS? 260hp factory just isn't doing it for me anymore. Haha
I bought my old school, 350 with 305 heads, mystery cam, about 13-15 in vacuum. Git some good 96 vortec heads 906 free... what should I be worried about
Did you use offset keepers of have the guide bosses milled down for more clearance? I've read that anything above a .420 lift on a stock Vortec head you risk the retainer hitting the valve seal.
@@richardholdener1727 I'm comparing it to the edlebrock 2116. I'm building my L31 for a 3/4 ton 4x4 truck with a 4 speed manual transmission. So I'm definitely more interested in that 3000 to 4500 rpm torque. High rpm power isn't something I'm looking for
I’ve followed you for a while bc i love all the information and it’s been helpful on my project build which is getting a 5.3 and turbo and cam and everything. But i just inherited a gmc van with the 5.7 vortec in it and i just want it to be a little more responsive and powerful for towing the car. So i was excited to find this video.
lunati makes a great torque cam for these motors and youll be very happy. long tube headers mid length headers or even shorty headers will pick up some power too. add a well placed h pipe and better muffler and it will run better
I have a 2002 gmc Savana 3500 5.7 vortec. I would just be happy with more power, efficiency mpg, reliability, and ease of maintenance. The less computers and scanner the better. But nothing for me I don't think?
So could you run vortec heads on a TPI Setup, wondering if this is a good option for my 85 Flat Tappet C4 that’s all cast with factory forged pistons. I wanna keep fuel injection and TPI as I love the look of it, as well as the characteristic of the superb low end torque.
Ahoy Richard I've got a 04 regular cab silverado 1500 with the original 4.8 with over 25000 miles still strong I put a 4-1/2 inch lift kit & now I need power plus want a sloppy nice sound with it. Any suggestions on not a whole lot of ad -on's that's under $ 500 😁
@@richardholdener1727. Wow really brought the compression up! Those pistons are not only dished but they have the beveled crown as well.. There's virtually no quench even at zero deck. I wonder if a flat top (even a flat top with beveled crown) would make more power at the same compression as the previously mentioned pistons would? 🤔
@@richardholdener1727 Eyeballs. My brothers from the middle of the country prefer Chevies and are a loyal crowd. Advertisers will see how popular these Chevy small-block videos are.
If I understood correctly, you have roughly .030" quench with the shim gasket? Im worried about quench too tight on mine, is why I asked. Building an L31 long block very similar. True decked a few thousandths, not zero decked, align honed 4.00 x 3.48, forged/bushed 5.7 rods, Scat 9-10526R steel crank, H631CP 5cc flat tops, Melling 22280 Roller(220/224,495/502,110Lsa/106 factory center). 787's with beehives and long slot 1.5 rockers. I'm .016" in the hole and with .015" Fel-Pro 1094's, that's a tight .032" quench. 85 Jeep CJ7, 2900lb, 3.08's, 4spd trans=opportunities for unintentional 6k+ mistakes but will have an RPM limiter of some sort before 1st start up, even if its a simple digital 4pin hei module. 1) Do you think .029-031" quench is too tight for me? 2) Pros and cons of advancing centerline to 104°? 3) Thank you for taking the time to help us mere mortals! 😊 I have applied a tremendous amount of knowledge to my project from you, your pals @ Engine Masters and all your video content. Thank you Mr. Holden for helping the little guys accomplish a dream.
@@richardholdener1727 yes sir. Thank you. So .031 quech is fine with proper piston to head clearance? What would be too tight for valve clearance? Thanks again for taking the time to respond being how busy you are. I appreciate your time in this matter.
@@richardholdener1727 would I have any likely piston to head issues using a .015 shim gasket on my stock style .040 over dished pistons engine (70’s to 80’s stock block) , even if the block was zero decked? I have not yet pulled the heads that are on it, to measure, so only asking in advance of what might be inside my engine. I only know that the pistons are .040 after endoscopy get thru a plug hole, so far………… thank you in advance for any and all info you offer!!! Love all your videos and have learned a ton from you, sir!!!!
I have a 400sbc I’m wanting to use. I was thinking of vortec heads, performer rpm intake, and it’s stock crank. Why kinda cam would be best? Going to be a street/ strip car
Mr Holdener! If I want to use Nitrous on my Street Truck, should I get my small Block 350 built with Ring Gap? Also should do Aluminum Heads or cast iron Heads to achieve about 400 Horses or so? With Air Conditioning.
What power you thinking my vet 5.7 roller block is pushing we did away with the aluminum head went with 305 tbi heads with roller rockers a edelbrock rpm air gap with a 650 carb this is in my demo derby car with 1 1/2 headers with 3" collectors and e vack cam is the stock cam still
Will just doing a 1.6 valve upgrade increase power on a vortec head. And how would a 383 perform with a vortec head with .0540 intake lift/.0560 exhaust
Hot Rod magazine’s 383 made 463 hp 502 lb-ft on almost stock vortec head @.555 lift. “March 2002” I think it would be a great video to match or up Hot Rods build.
So im doing an engine swap in a 84 c10. Got an l83 cross fire 350 that im putting vortec heads and a edelbrock 650 carbd on, any idea what hp i might have with that? I know the cam thats in it is a .269/.276 lift and a 202/206 duration. I had planned on getting a bigger cam but that cam is already at the valves limit (.420).
@@richardholdener1727 good to know, I was trying to shoot for 400, if you got a good cam recommendation I'd love to hear it. I was looking at a procomp high energy or thumpr full kit with springs for in the future
hey Richard I have a question I just did a cam and head swap afr vortec heads summit 8803 cam on a L31 with sniper and timing control.the car starts and run and idol's fine but as soon as I press on the gas it starts popping out the tailpipes any advice would be great
Richard , got a question about a stock 5.7 vortec out of a 1996 2500 , building this motor for drag racing , intend to put a duel plane intake and holly sniper 1250 , twin gt 35 ebay turbos and a decent cam , so first question is what is the best cam for the stock heads ? Second question is , what would your opinion be on potential hp output ?
it would be best to have the Vortec heads machined to accept a better spring package-then you can cam it with some lift (that combo cam make 400+ hp na then just add boost (those turbos will support over 1000 hp)
For a dude that loves his 96 Chevy 1500 with the L31.. this video is life :))
How's it running?
I pretty much have the same set up in my 3rd gen camaro.. Forged flat top pistons, 15 thou shim gasket, vortec heads screw in studs, ls springs and comp retainers with valve job 1.6 ratio rockers 3'42 gears 700r4 trans and it runs fantastic, pulls hard and makes a nice street driver highway cruiser with the 600 holley vac secondary.. If light foot work on highway if I had to guess I am getting 20+mpg. Its just a nice running motor fantastic driving car.
I’m getting ready to do this in a 72 chevelle try make it a good drivable car has a 0010 block bored 30 over old beefed up 882 smoggier on it at the moment
What Vehicles did the L31 Vortec Engine come in?
@@johncalhoun8011 trucks Tahoe's Escalade box trucks lot really Van's 96-00
On my 3rd build for this motor first sold it didn't know what I had I bought 2 big blocks but did nothing to them just thru one in it was fun but problems was young now I built 2 top end vortec builds that's been running strong for a year 1st one still running strong after 7 8 years that I sold the big block still running good by
Good luck buddy I just did basically the same thing to my 91 camaro and the trans has already been built twice and I said fuck it and I'm putting in a 350 turbo because no matter who builds those 700R4 trans they won't last with anything above 400hp
I ran a 40 over chevy with vortex 194 heads in my dirt car. I turned 7200 rpm on a regular basis. Never any problems
Spring pocket work?
Did that build almost 23 years ago. Worked well for many years.
If running a hydraulic flat tappet I highly recommend the Isky 292 mega cam! Will rip right up to 7,000rpm's and make awesome power everywhere!
Exactly
@@infamousnova I forgot to say in my original comment, but they sound cool too!!!
Man that’s awesome! Makes me excited for my L31 build for my 3rd gen Pontiac lol. I think a good carb and some head work for a bigger cam is all I have left. So far on my future build “list” is: Aluminum intake, HEI distribution, long tube headers, forged flat top pistons, head work for whatever cam I choose, and a bigger stall for the 700r4 after it gets built. I have an Edelbrock 1406 right now I’ll start out with but I might switch out later on down the road for something a bit heftier
Richard, i watch every video you post and love them, share them, watch a lot of them twice or even thrice. PLEASE specify the headers as to tube length, diameter, collector diameter and length...many of your fans need to know
Sad there was never a response to this comment.
That engine sounds so great on the dyno at 4:08
I was thinking a man could make another 15 if he tuned that dude up. Talk about sounding "off the pipe!' 😄
🤣🤣🤣🤣
I was looking to see if anyone else noticed 😂
The L31 heads are underestimated and have great mixture motion and brake specific fuel consumption. As long as you don't eke out to much iron, they are a real advance on any other SBC grouped exhaust head. A factory Double Hump match mate.
and that's a salient point you made--people focus on how much CFM a cylinder head port can move, but if the air/fuel mixture isn't homogeneous or the combustion chamber's shape gets in the way of flame front movement across the cylinder (assuming no pop-up/domed piston) then that head isn't going to make the power it should.
I recall a car magazine Danger Mouse build some years ago and they claimed 415 hp and @400+ft/lbs torque with Vortec heads and XE262h flat tappet cam in a 355 sbc. Richard Holdener's dyno seems to be more honest than the DM6 from a magazine article from years ago.
Super Chevy. I read, and was building circle track engines for limited street stock classes back then. Used to build 377 destroked 400s with a 2bbl and could get around 360hp at the tires.
I loved the Danger Mouse series
The xe268 numbers were before the bumped compression. I would bet with the xe268 its at about 400 hp with the extra compression
😅
I have a L31 Forged Crank, PM rods, 9.5:1 with a Edelbrock Performer Rpm Top End 64cc heads CNC Ported/Polished heads and intake, 650 cfm AVS 2 Carb, Bullet Cams 226/234 530/530@.50 110+4 LSA, 1.5 Edelbrock Red Roller Rockers, Summit Racing LS7 Lifters, 1 7/8 Hooker Competition Headers it made 441Hp and 444 Tq with a 2200 FTI Stall and a 700r4 heavily built Trans with 3.42 Richmond 10 bolt in a 72 Nova excellent daily driver by far the best street build I have ever done...
GREAT VIDEO RICHARD!!! TOTALLY AWESOME BUILD!!! THANKS FOR SHARING!!! I LEARNED SO MUCH.
I used to build 2bbl street stock engines. The cam I used was basically a Lunati Voodoo 294 and could get around 360 wheel Hp. We did tighten up the LSA around 106 I believe. Vortec heads were a game changer then.
Around home (central PA) when the vortec heads came out it made alot of others obsolete. Our super sportsman with big vortecs makes low 600s on alcohol with a custom cam.
@@joegabner7419 Damn. Thats impressive.
@@joegabner7419 The Bowtie 2.00" intake valve Vortecs? Sounds like those are what you're using...
@@bobhoffman5581 they are 2.02 intake valve. The intake port in the heads are 218ccs from factory
@@joegabner7419 Chevy Performance lists the Bowtie Vortec heads as having 2.00" valves, the same size as their "Fast Burn" heads have. Screw in studs, with thicker bases than "stock" Vortec heads, which have pressed in studs...
love the 350 builds especially with 650 carbs. I would be curious to know what jetting you used?
Well, Rich... you have you Vortec L31 heads now, along with improved springs and a hydro-roller 350. Guess you can do that Vortec/TPI-350 build you've talked about now! Just one small suggestion: I've heard swapping the Ram-Jet 350 cam into the stock Vortec 350 w/factory long-runner intake & "spider"-injection helps wake it up, and make a real stump-puller out of it... so you might want to consider that.
I don't have a Vortec hyd roller block, or a TPI intake for Vortec heads, wouldn't use the spider injection, and would use a different cam than the Ram-Jet 350-where does that leave us?
I always wanted to put a TPI intake on my vortec truck. I don’t have that truck anymore and have an 8.1 truck now, but I always wondered how that combo would have done.
I had a setup in my k10, it was a vortec 350 motor with the edelbrock intake and carb with ls3 springs and comp cams retainers with an lt4 hotcam…. Had a little too much fun in that thing.
Yep, good cam
We really enjoy your explanations, again we in south Florida would love to see a build to really max out Torque from idle to 4800RPM's SMB chevy. for Marine uses.
idle and WOT don't really go together
@@richardholdener1727 Yes We totally understand that, however there must be a set up for lower RPM Torque again Thanks. I'm not sure if you've done any marine heavy boat set ups. But TORQUE at low RPM's is what gets them out on a plane.
I have a 96 vortec and I changed to carbureted and I put the hyd flat tappet k12-600-4 comp cam and since it's time to put it away for the winter I'm taking the engine apart and studding the heads plus I broke a rocker so now I'm Changing to 1.6 rollers rockers
Shoot. I would have started out with the xe274. I had a Monte Carlo with a old low compression shortblock and added 906 vortec heads with big springs and the xe274. 3.42 gears and a 3000 stall that I couldn't make proper use of cause I ran pepboys 295-50 radials. But even creeping out of the hole at the track is still ran 12.70s
Finally superchats won't let.me comment any more.think you for this
?
Between the head and the block you shaved off a lot of metal, did this affect intake manifold fitment? And did you have to use custom length push rods????
it was a total of .060 with gasket, deck and heads, we shortened the pushrods .050
Great video. I don't know why we're so addicted to 350 motor builds, but we are. Richard do you have a test video where you don't change anything on the motor but do manifolds, shorty headers, mid length and longtubes on something like this?
long tubes always make more than stock or shorty
@@richardholdener1727 Oh for sure. But how much would I be giving up if packaging doesn't allow for longtubes.
@@Nanaki1422 Not much at all.
I will always have a soft spot for the good old SBC.
Really loving the vortec testing Richard thanks a bunch! Have you ever ran the tune port with vortec heads under it? Think SDPC makes the lower to make it all work. Seems like it could make a good stock appearance sleeper build up.
no sir
I’ve been checking the SDPC website for months and the Vortec TPI lower has been showing Out of Stock. I have a feeling they made one production run and when they were gone, they were gone.
@Richard Holdener HEY I have a low mileage 190 hp sbc 350 in my 73 elcamino I'm buying the L31s this week but can you give me a list of springs , cam, rockers upgrade I should use to the 400hp maybe 500hp range.
I built this engine back in 2016 using that sdpc intake. Makes 493lb ft and 375hp with a 212 @ .050 112lsa. Pulls 20 in.hg.
I’m taking out my 5.7 from a 98 Suburban for a rebuild. Love all this information.
Question though?
Pushing it up to 300+ HP will that screw up my Smog Control?
Sucks I live in California.
I really wanna screw with peoples heads at stop lights though
We took a motor out a 98 Z71 and milled the bosses, put an XR288HR cam in it with 987-16 springs and screw in studs and it ran 11.90s on motor in my weekend driver 1987 Z28 with a th350 and a 4200 converter with th350
How much does it weigh? Would like to do 11.4 or better with a similar combo through a 5 speed.
@TheJMan1K 3460. It was full body full interior power windows and locks
My friend said he took his brother's to a truck and said hook it up, paid like $500, and it decimated all... thank you for this info
The problem with the Vortec heads, is that they are very thin castings, and they crack very easily. When Richard said they cut .030" off them, I almost cringed! I'm sure they are fine as long as they dont overheat. That's what makes them crack wide open right between the two center cylinders.
The Bowtie Vortec heads are the way to go. Thicker base, 2.00" intake valves, for better breathing, without losing a lot of bottom end torque, like you would if you went to a 2.02" intake valve head. Screw in atuds, to boot. Not "cheap," but they won't break the bank, either. lol
Interesting that the lots bigger cam made no difference in power below 3250rpm and neither did raising the compression but the hood long tube headers made a big difference.
I have a L31 engine in my 97 OBS how would this set up work if I kept it with the factory EFI system instead of doing a carb set-up? Great video.
works as long as you can tune it
When are you going to do the Big Bang Chevy 350?
Did you machine the valve guides, or just change springs and retainers?
All jokes aside I love your Chanel brother you always teach me something but today I scrolled through a video a dude that looked like you or so I thought 🤣 got me thinking so I had to search it up and bam get a grip garage pops up 🤣 the weed is getting to me 😭💀🤣
what cam would you suggest for a l31 block thats been bored.060 over decked and has cast iron vortec heads with bee hive springs skip white rotatory assembly forged dish pistons,carbed havnt decided,its going in a 4x4 jeep with a 700r4,It will have 35" tires on it and rearend is 4.10 ford.I have two blocks other one is stock cleaned hasnt went to machine shop yet,good block,thanks for your vids ive been learning alot
268 or smaller cam would work well
@@richardholdener1727 I actually changed heads bought set of aluminum heads 68cc 2.02/1.60 200 cc and got a howards cam 180245-10,
Love the power adder 4bbl horsepower sound!! How much hp is a Richard sound effect ?? 25hp ?? Lol. Cool 😎 video. Those sbc are buildable but n/a has its limits.
26!
@@richardholdener1727. Ya my bad. Lol. You should know !!
Lt4 hot cam sounds great in the vortec 350
I love when he does circle track engines
I have a vortec with an LT1 rotating assembly, gm LT4 hotcam, LS6 springs, 1.6 rockers ,holley rpm air gap intake, short tube headers and a mighty Demon 650. What's your thoughts on going single turbo and e85 blow thru carb to this setup. Bottom end is rock stock . I will gap the rings. 906 heads are just a quick valve job .
THAT WORKS
B-O-W T-I-E!!! 😁 you da man, Richard!
One of the largest suppliers of cams is having issues with flat tappet lifter pitting. Even using recommended oils and break in procedures. Choose wisely
Doesnt the l31 use the same D dish pistons as the tbi 350 and both have the 64cc chambers
This is a very good timing video, I'm just starting my 1996 vortec 350 build..
This is my favorite junkyard block 96-98
@@kdsboosted4954 my last build for this truck I did a very cheap build on a bone stock 190hp Goodwrench 350.. it worked for a lot of years but I found this running 1996 suburban that I'm upgrading to. It's going into a 1967 C20
@@marchettejw that's killer! I've used these a lot.
Dont know what junkyard your finding these motors ...ive been searching for months....need a 350 or even 454 for my 87 gmc k10.....cant find a damm thing here in az
Have you ever played around with cutting 2.2 rocker trunions and running ls rockers?
I have not
What’s a good cam to replace the L31 motor cam without having to change the springs and rockers out any recommendations
Awesome info! Do you have dyno proven results of going full roller? I’d love to see a before and after of switching to roller cam and lifters.
WITH THE SAME CAM SPECS?
I'd like to see the difference as well. In theory, when under 280 advertised duration a flat tappet cam is more aggressive than a roller. Personally if I ever go roller it has to be a solid.
My guess on the cam is its something similar to the old Crane 302H06...
246/246 .500 .500 106 lsa
How About A Set Of 062 Vortec Heads With Screw In Studs, Bee Hive Valve Springs And An Edelbrock RPM Air Gap Intake On An LT1 350 360, A 327 350, A 327 365 And A DZ 302...I Think It Would Be A Very Interesting Comparison...And Then Switch The Cams Around, Put The DZ (duntov) Cam In The LT 1, Then Go Comp 268 Cam In All Of The Motors Comparing That Cam To All 3 Of The Stock Cams In The Hi Perf Small Blocks...Interesting Series Of Tests Then Just For Yuks Put A 294S In All Of Them...
If anyone is interested I have a set of these heads, an Edelbrock dual plane that fits them, couple different carbs and cams all from an old project (you could pick what you want). Shipping might be a bit steep but the seller is motivated (ie, I could use the space and cash 😁).
You still have the heads?
@@oxyjohn3051 wrote that a while ago but... yah actually I havent done a damn thing with em-theyre still in the closet downstairs somewhere. you actually interested?
@@colestowing8695 if they ain’t cracked and da price right
@@oxyjohn3051 Cool. give me a day or so (probably less but just in case i get busy) lemme pull em out-make sure i can find everything and that they still look good etc. At that point I can give you my number and we can try to work something out. Hopefully shipping isnt a deal killer (Im philly area)
@@oxyjohn3051 hey bud. i dug em out. evrything still looks good. let me know if you want more info-photos or whatever
When you put Vortec heads (presumably designed with a roller cam/lifters) on an older SBC with a roller cam, do you use the pushrods designed for the Vortec heads or the pushrods designed for the flat tappet?
pushrod length for heads and hyd roller cam
@@richardholdener1727 thank you
How about comparing power curves on off the shelf oval track and street strip cams of similar lift and duration in same engine combo?
Didn't catch this first time around. You zero decked the short block, and then used a .015" steel shim head gasket? .015" quench total if I heard you right? Or do they make a thicker steel shim that I'm unaware of? Not nitpicking you buddy, just genuinely curious as I have a 350 I plan to do a comparable build with.
I’m wondering if the pistons being stock dished makes it where the steel shim works perfectly ………… I’m guessing (not a pro engine guy! Hobbiest) the dish allows the quench to be on target, with the .015 shim?
Hey Richard any videos on stock vortec with a lt4 hot cam swap? Thanks
Hi Richard, great vid
What’s the common wisdom on cam selection if this was to be a 2bbl motor with no lift rule, has to be flat tappet but can be solid
it would depend on the displacement, head flow, intake and intended rpm
When you add Vortec heads to a flat tappet cam engine, do you have to worry about the valve springs that come with the Vortec? Possibly too stiff?
stock vortec springs should be fine for a hyd flat tappet cam-just check available lift/ret clearance
Gm
602 I need more pull out of it on a 3/8 asphalt track turning 6200 pulls hard off but runs out of the pull 1/2 way. Needs to be 9.2:1 comp flat tappett cam is only rule
I’m not in a 602 class I just have a 602. What do u suggest to get this 602 to pull longer and harder cam and spring swap ??
YES CAM AND SPRINGS
Stock valve train can only take .480 lift….because the seals. You have to run offset keepers to gain more lift when using higher lift springs. Unless you cut the seats down. He didn’t mention any of that being done
Is there a specific part number for the spring retainers and and locks? I took my vortec heads to the machine shop and they wouldn’t do the LS valve spring swap because they said the retainers and locks wouldn’t work with the LS springs.
I'm a simple man. I see vortx tree fiddy, I push like.
Hey Richard, building a motor for my boat. Stock boat manifolds. 5.7 chevy roller.
The problem I'm coming across is everyone's saying they need all torque. And Don't spin over 4800 rpm.
Is there a cam that pull just as good low rpm but more on top end also? Like the sloppy cam for LS? 260hp factory just isn't doing it for me anymore. Haha
A SLOPPY IS NOT A GOOD LS CAM AT 4800 RPM, BUT YOU NEED TO FIND OUT WHAT YOU HAVE IN THERE
the marine 300hp 5.7 roller motors used the gm ramjet cam.
I bought my old school, 350 with 305 heads, mystery cam, about 13-15 in vacuum. Git some good 96 vortec heads 906 free... what should I be worried about
cam lift and the ret to seal clearance on the Vortec heads
That mystery camshaft is gonna be probably like right at .495/.495
Did you use offset keepers of have the guide bosses milled down for more clearance? I've read that anything above a .420 lift on a stock Vortec head you risk the retainer hitting the valve seal.
mill the guides down
I see you have a air gap intake. Do you know the difference roughly between it and a regular dual plane intake on a L31 engine?
depends on what other dual plane you compare it to
@@richardholdener1727 I'm comparing it to the edlebrock 2116. I'm building my L31 for a 3/4 ton 4x4 truck with a 4 speed manual transmission. So I'm definitely more interested in that 3000 to 4500 rpm torque. High rpm power isn't something I'm looking for
I’ve followed you for a while bc i love all the information and it’s been helpful on my project build which is getting a 5.3 and turbo and cam and everything. But i just inherited a gmc van with the 5.7 vortec in it and i just want it to be a little more responsive and powerful for towing the car. So i was excited to find this video.
lunati makes a great torque cam for these motors and youll be very happy. long tube headers mid length headers or even shorty headers will pick up some power too. add a well placed h pipe and better muffler and it will run better
😂
I have a 2002 gmc Savana 3500 5.7 vortec. I would just be happy with more power, efficiency mpg, reliability, and ease of maintenance. The less computers and scanner the better. But nothing for me I don't think?
So could you run vortec heads on a TPI Setup, wondering if this is a good option for my 85 Flat Tappet C4 that’s all cast with factory forged pistons. I wanna keep fuel injection and TPI as I love the look of it, as well as the characteristic of the superb low end torque.
im pretty sure they sell a 4bbl carb to tpi adapter plate for any carb intake.
Ahoy Richard I've got a 04 regular cab silverado 1500 with the original 4.8 with over 25000 miles still strong I put a 4-1/2 inch lift kit & now I need power plus want a sloppy nice sound with it. Any suggestions on not a whole lot of ad -on's that's under $ 500 😁
250,000 miles on motor & tranny my bad
cam, headers, tune
Do you have any idea how much compression you ended up with after shaving the block and heads and using the steel gasket?
I'm thinking mid 10s
@@richardholdener1727. Wow really brought the compression up! Those pistons are not only dished but they have the beveled crown as well.. There's virtually no quench even at zero deck. I wonder if a flat top (even a flat top with beveled crown) would make more power at the same compression as the previously mentioned pistons would? 🤔
What would you recommend for me to help my performance on my 1998 Chevy Silverado C1500 5.7 v8 all i done to it was put a cold air intake in it
cam or headers or tune
Richard is the only person I know of that can continue to make money off of a 4 engines he dynod 10 years ago.
I think you me 400 engines
What hydraulic rocker camshaft would you suggest for a l31?
Gotta include a cheby small-block video every once in a while just to pay the bills.
not sure how the sbc pays the bills
@@richardholdener1727 Eyeballs. My brothers from the middle of the country prefer Chevies and are a loyal crowd. Advertisers will see how popular these Chevy small-block videos are.
I'd like to see what kind of numbers a sbc 400 with vortec heads could put down
Over 500ftlb ...
If I understood correctly, you have roughly .030" quench with the shim gasket? Im worried about quench too tight on mine, is why I asked.
Building an L31 long block very similar. True decked a few thousandths, not zero decked, align honed 4.00 x 3.48, forged/bushed 5.7 rods, Scat 9-10526R steel crank, H631CP 5cc flat tops, Melling 22280 Roller(220/224,495/502,110Lsa/106 factory center). 787's with beehives and long slot 1.5 rockers. I'm .016" in the hole and with .015" Fel-Pro 1094's, that's a tight .032" quench. 85 Jeep CJ7, 2900lb, 3.08's, 4spd trans=opportunities for unintentional 6k+ mistakes but will have an RPM limiter of some sort before 1st start up, even if its a simple digital 4pin hei module.
1) Do you think .029-031" quench is too tight for me?
2) Pros and cons of advancing centerline to 104°?
3) Thank you for taking the time to help us mere mortals! 😊 I have applied a tremendous amount of knowledge to my project from you, your pals @ Engine Masters and all your video content. Thank you Mr. Holden for helping the little guys accomplish a dream.
you should be concerned with piton to head clearance and not quench
@@richardholdener1727 yes sir. Thank you. So .031 quech is fine with proper piston to head clearance? What would be too tight for valve clearance? Thanks again for taking the time to respond being how busy you are. I appreciate your time in this matter.
@@richardholdener1727 would I have any likely piston to head issues using a .015 shim gasket on my stock style .040 over dished pistons engine (70’s to 80’s stock block) , even if the block was zero decked? I have not yet pulled the heads that are on it, to measure, so only asking in advance of what might be inside my engine. I only know that the pistons are .040 after endoscopy get thru a plug hole, so far………… thank you in advance for any and all info you offer!!! Love all your videos and have learned a ton from you, sir!!!!
Just what I wanted to see after last night.
Being an oval track engine, why did you not advance the cam?
I have a 400sbc I’m wanting to use. I was thinking of vortec heads, performer rpm intake, and it’s stock crank. Why kinda cam would be best? Going to be a street/ strip car
Comp XE276
Omg that's the same build as my l31 in my 2000 Chevy express van lol
Hi master Richard, can I use this combo en 350 tune port injection engine ?
yes but you need to buy a dedicated tune port vortec lower intake from Scoggin Dickey
Mr Holdener! If I want to use Nitrous on my Street Truck, should I get my small Block 350 built with Ring Gap? Also should do Aluminum Heads or cast iron Heads to achieve about 400 Horses or so? With Air Conditioning.
just get an L31 Vortec small block from the junkyard, add a small cam and springs and nitrous
@@richardholdener1727 You don't reccomend freshening up the bottom end? Head work?
Mr Holdener! What about Head Work?
4:07 I did not expect that 😂
Haha I paused the video, looking around the room like wtf was that...
@@amorgan93 I did the same thing!
top secret engine noises!
I was thinking my dogs made the noise…. Was thoroughly confused for a second.
Richard, what would you suggest for a highly streetable superchager for this setup?
Block: 350 bored 60
Pistons: SRP 139634 Forged Dish -24cc
Carb: Summit 600CFM SUM-M08600VS
intake: EDL-2716
Holley 650 carb
Heads: Vortec 10239906 64cc surfaced 10
Valve Springs: 26915-16
Lifters: 853-16 roller
Pushrods: 7815-16
Cam: Comp 12-422-8
lots of blower avail for a small block-look at TorqStorm or Holley
zero deck and steel shims? Thats tight. About .035 is about as close as i would dare piston to head.
we later swapped back to a conventional head gasket
What power you thinking my vet 5.7 roller block is pushing we did away with the aluminum head went with 305 tbi heads with roller rockers a edelbrock rpm air gap with a 650 carb this is in my demo derby car with 1 1/2 headers with 3" collectors and e vack cam is the stock cam still
STOCK CAM?
Yes
For now
Its a 87
What did the stock heads make on that "190hp" engine? I'm guessing around 250-260
that video is up
Will just doing a 1.6 valve upgrade increase power on a vortec head. And how would a 383 perform with a vortec head with .0540 intake lift/.0560 exhaust
might be better to do the intake too
3800 ported heads ever coming??? Nice video!
ever?
How much power would you guess a L31 350 vortec would make with a good cam upgrade and a set of AFR heads?
400
Thanks for the reply. Maybe it's not worth me swapping out my heads.
@4:08 lol WAAAAAH
try vortec 383 richard wanna See the power gains ? cam lift no more then a .550 lift.thankz
BUT 600 IS MORE BETTER
@@richardholdener1727 yes
Hot Rod magazine’s 383 made 463 hp 502 lb-ft on almost stock vortec head @.555 lift. “March 2002” I think it would be a great video to match or up Hot Rods build.
So im doing an engine swap in a 84 c10. Got an l83 cross fire 350 that im putting vortec heads and a edelbrock 650 carbd on, any idea what hp i might have with that? I know the cam thats in it is a .269/.276 lift and a 202/206 duration. I had planned on getting a bigger cam but that cam is already at the valves limit (.420).
325 hp ish
@@richardholdener1727 good to know, I was trying to shoot for 400, if you got a good cam recommendation I'd love to hear it. I was looking at a procomp high energy or thumpr full kit with springs for in the future
Any tips on using round port headers on a set of vortec head?
isn't every header round port?
Hey Richard. How about doing a sbc 400 for a strong street motor using the Vortec heads.
those are hard to find any more
@@richardholdener1727 I have a fresh 400 in my wagon you could use if I can keep the setup at cost 😁
You didn’t check the cam specs on the cam Dr?
hey Richard I have a question I just did a cam and head swap afr vortec heads summit 8803 cam on a L31 with sniper and timing control.the car starts and run and idol's fine but as soon as I press on the gas it starts popping out the tailpipes any advice would be great
IT NEEDS TO BE TUNED
If you didn't know what cam was given to you. Why didn't you throw a degree wheel on and find out?
If cam specs are identical between a flat tappet and a roller cam, does the roller cam still make more power?
LESS FRICTION
What valve springs do I run in my 062 heads?
Richard , got a question about a stock 5.7 vortec out of a 1996 2500 , building this motor for drag racing , intend to put a duel plane intake and holly sniper 1250 , twin gt 35 ebay turbos and a decent cam , so first question is what is the best cam for the stock heads ? Second question is , what would your opinion be on potential hp output ?
it would be best to have the Vortec heads machined to accept a better spring package-then you can cam it with some lift (that combo cam make 400+ hp na then just add boost (those turbos will support over 1000 hp)
If you're asking this question on here, are you really ready to be engine building or drag racing?
Did you change the valve angle to meet the Nascar spec short track type.
sure