7.4L Vortec Heads. Rebuild or replace

[run96k3500]

So I going to have my engine rebuilt doing a .30 or .60 over with a mild cam. Now should I rebuild the stock head with better equipment and some machine work? Does anyone recommend aftermarket heads for the Vortec 454?

[1998454]

Depends on how much power your after. the right cam, good exhaust and a tune will get you decent power gains with stock heads. About as far as i'd go with stock heads is better valves and springs (not bigger valves due to shrouding), and a port match. That is just my opinion after reading several stories of $500+ port jobs on these heads for near zero gains. If I were to replace mine I would go with edelbrock 454-O 100cc heads, or AFR if my wallet could stand it.

[454cid]

Could you define better valves?

[454cid]

OP, I wouldn't bore the engine anymore than need be.

[1998454]

Manley severe duty. Better materials. just my opinion but maybe unnecessary though.
Could you define better valves?

[454cid]

Manley severe duty. Better materials. just my opinion but maybe unnecessary though.

Ok I wasn't sure if you were talking materials or maybe the profile of the transition from stem to backside of the face or something similar, or both.

[99urbansuburban]

go with better valves, do some port matching, have the bowls worked on that is where you get to beter flow, since these are considered dry heads. meaning no fuel flows thru them, injected. smoothing out he runner would hurt either. that is what I woud do. flowing heads make a huge difference if the cam is needind the flow. My $0.02

[run96k3500]

Should I get hardens push rods and hew rockers?

[1998454]

I would get whatever pushrods the cam company recommends. Adjustable rockers is a good idea if running a non oem cam.
Should I get hardens push rods and hew rockers?

[run96k3500]

I really don't know much about that. Do you recommend any parts that I should suggest to them.

[irishluder]

I am planning a rebuild also, my finding via other forums is:

-The stock L29 heads are good for truck applications, low torque/HP that is useable for towing and street driving.
-If you are wanting a higher RPM motor for racing, you need to go with the Edelbrock heads or Brodix heads...this is per a chevelle forum.
-Like stated above, a port match and cleaning up the rough areas will save you machining cost...these heads dont improve much.
-Get a cam that suits your needs and upgrade the springs if need be

Pics of your build please!