The Chevrolet small-block 350 is a legendary engine, known for its reliability, affordability, and impressive modification potential. One of the most significant upgrades for boosting performance is swapping out the cast iron cylinder heads for aluminum alternatives. This guide delves into the world of 350 small block aluminum heads, exploring their benefits, different types available, and factors to consider when choosing the right set for your project.
Why Choose Aluminum Heads for a 350 Small Block?
Aluminum heads offer several key advantages over their cast iron counterparts:
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Reduced Weight: Aluminum is significantly lighter than cast iron, reducing overall engine weight and improving responsiveness. This translates to better acceleration and handling, especially beneficial in performance applications.
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Increased Cooling Efficiency: Aluminum's superior heat dissipation properties allow for more efficient cooling, preventing overheating and enabling higher compression ratios without detonation concerns. This is crucial for high-performance builds.
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Improved Flow Characteristics: Many aftermarket aluminum heads feature optimized port designs for improved airflow, leading to increased power and torque throughout the RPM range. This is where significant gains in horsepower can be realized.
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Enhanced Strength (in some cases): While some aluminum heads might be perceived as less durable, modern casting techniques and design improvements often result in heads that are as strong or stronger than their cast iron predecessors. This misconception needs clarification as advancements have negated the old stereotype.
What are the Different Types of 350 Small Block Aluminum Heads?
The market offers a broad range of aluminum heads for the 350 small block, catering to various budgets and performance goals. These generally fall into a few categories:
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Street/Strip Heads: These heads are designed for a balance between street manners and performance. They offer good flow characteristics at a reasonable price point, making them ideal for daily drivers and weekend racers.
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Race Heads: These heads are built for maximum performance. They typically feature larger valves, more aggressive porting, and other modifications optimized for high RPM applications. They often demand more specialized tuning and components.
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Budget-Friendly Heads: Several manufacturers offer more affordable aluminum heads, perfect for those on a tighter budget. While they might not offer the extreme performance of high-end options, they still represent a significant upgrade over cast iron heads.
What are the common brands of 350 small block aluminum heads?
Numerous reputable manufacturers produce aluminum heads for the 350 small block. Some popular brands include Edelbrock, Dart, AFR (Air Flow Research), and Brodix. Each brand offers various models with differing features and price points. Researching individual models from these manufacturers will reveal specific details like chamber volume, valve sizes, and flow numbers.
What are the typical flow numbers for 350 small block aluminum heads?
Flow numbers represent the volume of air the heads can move through the ports at a specific lift. Higher flow numbers generally translate to more power. Flow numbers vary significantly depending on the head design and manufacturer, ranging from moderate figures suitable for street applications to extremely high numbers for all-out racing engines. You'll find these specifications in the manufacturer's product literature.
How much horsepower can I gain by using aluminum heads on my 350 small block?
The horsepower gains from installing aluminum heads depend on several factors, including the specific heads used, the overall engine build, and the supporting components. Generally, you can expect a significant horsepower increase – anywhere from 30 to 100 horsepower or more – compared to stock cast iron heads. However, maximizing potential gains requires careful consideration of other engine components and proper tuning.
What are the costs associated with upgrading to aluminum heads?
The cost of aluminum heads varies greatly depending on the brand, model, and features. You can find budget-friendly options, but high-performance heads can be significantly more expensive. Additionally, factor in the cost of installation, machining (if necessary), and potentially other engine components required to maximize the benefits of the upgrade. It's essential to budget accordingly.
Conclusion
Upgrading your 350 small block with aluminum heads is a rewarding modification for serious performance enthusiasts. By carefully considering your needs and budget, researching available options, and selecting heads that match your performance goals, you can significantly increase your engine's power and efficiency. Remember, proper installation and tuning are crucial to realizing the full potential of your upgraded engine.
