I am building a 406 SBC for MAX TORQUE. I know that a small cam with good flowing heads = big torque. My question is, what heads?

So far I have been looking at AFR 210 cc heads, but I wonder if there is something that flows just as well for a lesser price.

 

I have pro action heads on my 406, theyhave different runner sizes, i got 230cc runners with 2.08 valves, but i know you can get them smaller. mine were under a grand ready to go, except for drilling the steam holes...

 

Edelbrock makes a Performer RPM head that runs just under a thousand dollars a pair. For about $300 bucks more your could buy their Victor Jr heads. Of course you'll want to figure out what size chambers you'll need. They have a couple of popular chamber sizes that should fit your combination. The Performer RPM part number is 60719 (70cc angle plug). The Victor Jr. part number is 77619 and has the same 70cc chamber and angle plugs.

Good luck,

Richard

 

Thanks for your help guys. I should have mentioned that I plan to run the HOLLEY 4 Barrel TBI system.

Does this give me a little more flexibility in selecting an intake runner size since the motor doesn't have to rely as much on engine vacuum to pull fuel into the cylinders?

Thanks.

 

I'm not familiar with the Holley TBI system. If the injectiors are located at the ttb, then the system is still a wet flow system and runner size will have some influence on port average air speed. If the injectors are located at the head flange then your dealing with a dry system and there is less sensitivity and more flexability in runner size.

Richard

 

If you want low end torque....go smaller intake runners. Such as AFR 180cc or 195cc. Or you can go with a Vortec casting with a little porting and have a ton of low end/mid range torque. With each, you will have to drill for the steam hole if you are using a 400 block. TBI engines have great low end torque already but just don't go to radical. How are you planning on controlling the electronics part of it...GM harness/computer or C950?

 

I plan to use HOLLEY's complete kit. It will include the C950 PRO ECM along w/WB02. Good call on the runners. I was looking at heads with 200cc runners with 2.02/1.60 valves which looked really promising for what I am trying to accomplish. I won't have to worry about drilling the steam holes as they are plugged on the block. The cooling system I have planned for this motor will suffice quite well.

 

Thanks for that info. If this truck was going to stay on the street, then I would use an MPFI system, but since this thing will be off in the woods as well, I prefer the reliability and cost effectiveness of TBI.

 

200cc is a much better choice......I still perfer a 195cc max runner for a MAX low end torque engine esp. on a TBI engine. Your main powerband will be from idle to 5000 rpms with a TBI unit.