I was thinking about getting some heads to go along with my cam, but they cost a whole lot. Would it be worth it? How much power could I pick up?

 

Bigger heads usually need a bigger cam to take advantage of their increased airflow, a small cam and big heads is a pretty pointless combo

 

I thought a 220 duration was a decent size cam for a 5.3

 

Well at least a can save $1-$2K now, I knew I should have gone with a bigger cam. BTW, how are those shorties working for you Yelo? I would go with LTs, but I've heard of too many problems with them and they don't have low end power right?

 

Depending on who preps the heads, you can pickup between -20 to +30rwhp with mild (210º-220º duration) cams. Larger cams ususally show a larger increase, but not in every case. Some aftermarket heads may give a larger increase due to higher flow rates and smaller runner volumes not to mention more ideal chamber designs.

Good luck.

Richard

 

Richard is right in everything he said...I tend to think more budget oriented lately and a set of heads would be the last thing on my list if I was building a motor (our stock heads outflow alot of aftermarket performance sbc heads) but if you've got the money a set of heads is a great addition and one of those "foundation" parts that you can grow into.

The shorties are treating me well...they're not LT's but they flow well enough to notice a difference.