Edelbrock
A dyno-proven combination is what it's all about. Edelbrock makes things easy with its top end kits that offer performance in one box. Small-block kits include fully assembled rectangular intake port cylinder heads with 2.02/1.60-inch intake/exhaust valves and a 200cc intake runner with a 64cc chamber. A dual-plane Edelbrock Performer RPM Air-Gap manifold is also included. A specific hydraulic roller cam is good from 1,500 to 6,500 rpm and comes with this top end kit. The cam specs out with 242/240-degree intake/exhaust duration at 0.050-inch lift on a 112-degree lobe center. Plus all the necessary hardware is included to bolt this kit on.
What it cost
$2,000
Where to get it
Edelbrock
800.221.1666
edelbrock.com
Doug Herbert
Getting everything needed in one refined kit is crucial. To begin, Doug Herbert Performance top end packages make it easy by providing completely assembled aluminum cylinder heads with 2.02/1.60-inch intake/exhaust valves and matching springs. An Edelbrock Performer RPM intake manifold and Proform aluminum roller rockers (with locks) are also included. What's more is that a double-roller timing chain, chrome valve covers, Comp pushrods, head bolts, and cam and timing cover bolts are also supplied. While the entry-level kit comes standard with a flat-tappet camshaft, a roller cam with lifters is an option.
What it cost
$1,400
Where to get it
Doug Herbert
877.497.2787
dougherbert.com
GM Performance Parts
GM Performance Parts offers a budget-based top end kit that includes a set of iron 170cc Vortec cylinder heads with 1.94/1.50-inch intake/exhaust valves. With a Fast Burn 64cc combustion chamber and high-velocity ports, they outflow the Bow Tie heads right out of the box. A raised intake port, Vortec-style intake manifold is also included along with intake manifold gaskets and a head bolt kit.
What it cost
$964
Where to get it
GM Performance Parts
gmperformanceparts.com
Patriot Performance
For use on a potent 383ci short-block, the Patriot Performance top end kit includes 190cc intake port cylinder heads with traditional 2.20/1.60-inch intake/exhaust valves with 64cc chambers. The Patriot kit also comes with a hydraulic-roller camshaft (230/230 intake/exhaust duration at 0.050), roller lifters,and an Air-Gap gasket-matched manifold. Each system comes with a double-roller timing chain, Scorpion aluminum roller rockers, 12-point head bolts, including the intake and head gaskets.
What it cost
$1,900
Where to get it
Patriot Performance
888.462.8276
patriot-performance.com
Procomp Motorsports
Not only is Procomp known for its top-of-the-line electronics, but they now offer small-block top end packages. Each kit is tailored to the customer's existing short-block. Procomp includes assembled cylinder heads built to your desired specification and an intake manifold (available polished) with a performance camshaft, premium aluminum rockers, lifters, pushrods, a timing chain, and fabricated valve covers (available polished).
What it cost
$1,100 & up
Where to get it
Procomp Motorsports
909.605.1123
procompelectronics.com