Swapping out your cylinder heads is one of the best ways to boost horsepower on a Vortec 350. GM’s Vortec heads were a huge improvement over previous designs, but aftermarket options can take performance even further. You can get better flow, bigger valves, and improved combustion chamber designs. This article looks at some of the top aftermarket Vortec heads to help you find the right set for your build.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Edelbrock E-Street 5089: Great entry-level head for street performance.
- ProMaxx Performance 9159: Budget-friendly option with good value.
- Speedmaster PCE281.1045: Affordable with good out-of-the-box performance.
- Trick Flow Specialties TFS-30300001: High-performance head for serious builds.
- Summit Racing SUM-152121: Excellent all-around head for various applications.
Top 5 Best Aftermarket Vortec Heads
1. Edelbrock E-Street 5089
The Edelbrock E-Street 5089 heads are a popular choice for those looking to upgrade their Vortec engine without breaking the bank. These heads offer improved flow and performance over stock, making them a solid option for street cars and mild performance builds. They’re designed to be a direct replacement for Vortec heads, simplifying the installation process.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable option for performance upgrade
- ✅ Direct replacement for easy installation
- ✅ Improved flow over stock Vortec heads
Cons:
- ❌ May require additional parts for installation (e.g., self-aligning rocker arms)
- ❌ Not ideal for high-performance racing applications
- ❌ Valve springs may need upgrading for aggressive camshafts
Verdict: A good choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking a noticeable performance improvement in their street cars. They are straightforward to install and offer a good balance of price and performance.
2. ProMaxx Performance 9159
ProMaxx Performance 9159 heads are another budget-friendly option that offer a step up from stock Vortec heads. These heads are designed with improved port designs for better airflow, which translates to increased horsepower and torque. They are a popular choice for those looking to get more performance out of their engines without spending a fortune.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent value for the price
- ✅ Improved port design for better airflow
- ✅ Good option for budget performance builds
Cons:
- ❌ Quality control can be inconsistent
- ❌ May require some porting for optimal performance
- ❌ Valve springs may need upgrading for certain applications
Verdict: A solid option for those on a tight budget who are looking for a noticeable performance boost. Be prepared to inspect the heads thoroughly upon arrival and potentially do some minor porting for best results.
3. Speedmaster PCE281.1045
Speedmaster PCE281.1045 heads are designed to provide a significant performance boost for Vortec engines. With improved airflow and combustion chamber design, they are well-suited for a wide range of applications, from street cars to mild racing setups. They are also designed to be a direct fit replacement, which simplifies the installation process.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point
- ✅ Good out-of-the-box performance
- ✅ Direct fit replacement
Cons:
- ❌ May require additional machining for optimal results
- ❌ Some users report inconsistent quality
- ❌ Valve train components may need upgrading for high-performance applications
Verdict: A decent choice for those looking for an affordable performance upgrade. However, be prepared to inspect the heads carefully and potentially invest in additional machining or components to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
4. Trick Flow Specialties TFS-30300001
Trick Flow Specialties TFS-30300001 heads are high-performance options designed for serious enthusiasts. These heads feature advanced port designs, high-quality materials, and optimized combustion chambers for maximum power output. They are ideal for those building high-horsepower engines for racing or performance street applications.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent flow and performance
- ✅ High-quality materials and construction
- ✅ Optimized for high-horsepower applications
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point compared to other options
- ❌ May require professional installation and tuning
- ❌ Not ideal for stock or mild performance builds
Verdict: These heads are an excellent choice for serious performance enthusiasts who are willing to invest in top-of-the-line components. Expect significant power gains, but also factor in the cost of professional installation and tuning.
5. Summit Racing SUM-152121
Summit Racing SUM-152121 heads offer a great balance of performance and affordability. These heads are designed with improved port designs and combustion chambers for enhanced airflow and power output. They are a versatile option suitable for a wide range of applications, from street cars to mild performance builds. Plus, Summit Racing has a solid reputation for customer service.
Pros:
- ✅ Good balance of performance and price
- ✅ Improved port design for better airflow
- ✅ Versatile option for various applications
Cons:
- ❌ May require additional components for installation
- ❌ Not the highest-performing option on the market
- ❌ Valve springs may need upgrading for aggressive camshafts
Verdict: A solid all-around choice for those looking for a noticeable performance improvement without breaking the bank. They offer a good balance of performance, affordability, and ease of installation, making them a popular choice for a wide range of applications.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right aftermarket Vortec heads can feel overwhelming, but here’s what to consider:
- Budget: Heads range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars per pair. Set a realistic budget before you start looking.
- Performance Goals: Are you building a street cruiser or a drag racer? High-performance heads are overkill for a mild street build.
- Engine Configuration: Consider your camshaft, intake manifold, and exhaust system. Ensure the heads are compatible with your existing components.
- Valve Size: Larger valves generally improve airflow, but they may require modifications to your engine block.
- Combustion Chamber Size: Choose a combustion chamber size that matches your desired compression ratio.
- Material: Aluminum heads are lighter and dissipate heat better than cast iron, but they are also more expensive.
- Installation: Some heads are direct replacements, while others may require additional modifications or components.
- Brand Reputation: Stick with reputable brands known for quality and performance.
Also, think about whether you need complete heads (assembled with valves, springs, etc.) or bare heads (requiring you to source the components). Complete heads are usually easier to install, but bare heads offer more customization.
FAQs
Q: Will aftermarket Vortec heads fit my engine?
A: Most aftermarket Vortec heads are designed as direct replacements for factory Vortec heads found on 1996-2000 Chevy trucks and SUVs with 305 or 350 engines. Verify compatibility with your specific engine before purchasing.
Q: Do I need to upgrade my valve springs when installing aftermarket heads?
A: It depends on your camshaft. If you’re using a more aggressive camshaft with higher lift, you’ll likely need to upgrade your valve springs to prevent valve float and ensure proper valve control.
Q: Are aluminum heads better than cast iron heads?
A: Aluminum heads are lighter and dissipate heat more efficiently, which can improve performance. However, they are also more expensive than cast iron heads. Cast iron heads are more durable and can be a good option for budget-conscious builds.
Q: Can I install aftermarket heads myself?
A: Installing cylinder heads requires mechanical knowledge and experience. If you’re not comfortable working on engines, it’s best to have a professional install them. Improper installation can lead to serious engine damage.
Q: Do I need to tune my engine after installing new heads?
A: Yes, it’s highly recommended to tune your engine after installing new heads. This will ensure that your engine is running optimally and safely with the new components. A proper tune can maximize performance and prevent potential issues.
Conclusion
Upgrading to aftermarket Vortec heads is a great way to unleash more power from your engine. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for your daily driver or high-performance heads for your race car, there’s a set of heads out there to suit your needs. Just remember to consider your budget, performance goals, and engine configuration when making your decision. With the right set of heads, you’ll be enjoying increased horsepower and torque in no time.
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
