Best Small Block Chevy Cylinder Heads (2024 Updated)

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If you're looking for the best small block Chevy cylinder heads, there are a few key points you should keep in mind to ensure you make the right choice. First and foremost, you'll want to consider the specific needs of your engine and what you're looking to achieve. Different cylinder heads will offer different benefits, so it's important to know what you're looking for.

Next, you'll want to consider the material the cylinder heads are made from. Aluminum is a popular choice for its lightweight and heat dissipation properties, but there are also cast iron options available. You'll also want to think about the valve size and shape, as well as the combustion chamber size.

Another important factor to consider is the airflow capability of the cylinder heads. This can be influenced by factors such as the valve size and angle, as well as the port shape and size. Finally, you'll want to think about the cost and availability of the cylinder heads you're considering, as well as any additional features or benefits they offer.

Overall, finding the best small block Chevy cylinder heads requires careful consideration of a variety of factors. By taking the time to research your options and understand your engine's needs, you can make an informed decision that will help you get the most out of your vehicle.

10 Best Small Block Chevy Cylinder Heads

1. Speedmaster Pce281.2004 Small Block Chevy 350 Aluminum Cylinder Heads 64cc/190cc

The Speedmaster PCE281.2004 Small Block Chevy 350 Aluminum Cylinder Heads are an impressive addition to any engine enthusiast's collection. Designed specifically for Small Block Chevy 350 engines with Hydraulic Flat Tappet camshafts, these cylinder heads offer a range of features that make them stand out from the rest.

One of the most notable features of these cylinder heads is the 64cc combustion chamber. This ensures a high compression ratio, which is essential for producing maximum horsepower and torque. Additionally, the 190cc intake runners allow for increased airflow, further enhancing the engine's performance.

The cylinder heads are made from high-quality aluminum, making them lightweight and durable. The aluminum construction also helps to dissipate heat more efficiently, preventing overheating and potential engine damage. The heads are designed to be straight, which helps to improve airflow and combustion efficiency.

Another impressive feature of these cylinder heads is that they come fully assembled, making installation a breeze. The heads are precision machined to ensure a perfect fit, and the valves are carefully installed to ensure optimal performance. This means that engine enthusiasts can spend more time enjoying their engines and less time worrying about installation and assembly.

Overall, the Speedmaster PCE281.2004 Small Block Chevy 350 Aluminum Cylinder Heads are a must-have for any engine enthusiast looking to boost their engine's performance. With their high compression ratio, increased airflow, and lightweight construction, these cylinder heads are sure to deliver impressive results. Plus, their easy installation and precision machining make them a convenient choice for any engine builder.

2. Brodix Cylinder Heads 1021001 Ik200 S/p Assembled Cylinder Head For Small Block Chevy – Pair

The Brodix Cylinder Heads 1021001 IK200 S/P Assembled Cylinder Head for Small Block Chevy is a high-performance upgrade for your small block Chevy engine. This pair of cylinder heads features a 200cc intake runner and a 64cc combustion chamber, providing improved airflow and increased power for your engine.

The Brodix Cylinder Heads 1021001 IK200 S/P Assembled Cylinder Head is designed to provide a significant performance boost to your small block Chevy engine. With its 200cc intake runner and 64cc combustion chamber, these cylinder heads offer improved airflow and increased power, making them an excellent choice for high-performance applications.

One of the key features of the Brodix Cylinder Heads 1021001 IK200 S/P Assembled Cylinder Head is its 200cc intake runner. This large intake runner provides a significant increase in airflow, allowing your engine to breathe easier and produce more power. Additionally, the 64cc combustion chamber helps to improve combustion efficiency, resulting in even more power and performance gains.

The Brodix Cylinder Heads 1021001 IK200 S/P Assembled Cylinder Head is also designed with durability in mind. These cylinder heads are made from high-quality materials and are assembled with precision to ensure long-lasting performance. Whether you're building a high-performance street machine or a race car, these cylinder heads are built to withstand the demands of high-performance driving.

In terms of package dimensions, the Brodix Cylinder Heads 1021001 IK200 S/P Assembled Cylinder Head measures 27.73 inches in length, 8.76 inches in height, and 12.24 inches in width. These dimensions make it a perfect fit for a wide range of small block Chevy engines, and the package includes a pair of cylinder heads to ensure a perfect match.

Overall, the Brodix Cylinder Heads 1021001 IK200 S/P Assembled Cylinder Head is an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their small block Chevy engine. With its large intake runner, efficient combustion chamber, and durable construction, these cylinder heads offer significant performance gains and long-lasting durability.

3. Speedmaster Pce281.2031 Big Block Chevy Aluminum Cylinder Heads 119cc

The Speedmaster PCE281.2031 Big Block Chevy Aluminum Cylinder Heads 119cc are a high-performance engine component designed for use with a Big Block Chevy 454 with Hydraulic Flat Tappet. These cylinder heads are assembled and feature a 119 cc combustion chamber and 320 cc intake runners, making them ideal for engines that require maximum airflow and power.

The cylinder heads feature a rectangular port design that is known for its excellent airflow characteristics, allowing the engine to breathe more easily and produce more power. The heads are made from high-quality aluminum, which is lightweight and strong, providing excellent durability and heat dissipation.

With their large intake runners and combustion chambers, these cylinder heads are perfect for high-performance applications that require maximum horsepower and torque. They are also compatible with a wide range of aftermarket parts, including high-performance camshafts, intake manifolds, and exhaust systems.

In addition to their performance benefits, the Speedmaster PCE281.2031 Big Block Chevy Aluminum Cylinder Heads 119cc are also designed to be easy to install. They come fully assembled and ready to bolt onto your engine, reducing the amount of time and effort required for installation.

Overall, the Speedmaster PCE281.2031 Big Block Chevy Aluminum Cylinder Heads 119cc are an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade the performance of their Big Block Chevy engine. With their high-quality construction, large intake runners, and rectangular port design, these cylinder heads offer unbeatable performance and reliability.

4. Sbc Small Block Chevy 350 400 Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Angle Plug 205cc Intake 64cc Chambe

The SBC Small Block Chevy 350 400 Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Angle Plug 205cc intake 64cc chamber is a high-quality cylinder head designed for small block Chevys. This product boasts an impressive 2.02/1.600 valve setup, with a 205cc intake and a 64cc chamber. The cylinder head is also equipped with a 2 angle valve job and angle plugs, making it ideal for high-performance engines.

One of the key features of this product is its aluminum construction, which makes it significantly lighter than traditional cast iron cylinder heads. This reduction in weight can lead to improved performance and fuel efficiency. Additionally, the aluminum material provides better heat dissipation, which can help prevent engine overheating.

The 2.02/1.600 valve configuration is optimized for high-performance engines, allowing for increased airflow and improved combustion. The 205cc intake and 64cc chamber size make this cylinder head an excellent choice for engines that require high volume and velocity of air and fuel.

The 2 angle valve job and angle plugs provide superior sealing and prevent leaks. This feature is particularly important in high-performance engines, where even small leaks can significantly impact performance. The guides and seats are also pre-installed, making installation easier and faster.

In addition to its technical features, this cylinder head also boasts a sleek and stylish design. The aluminum material gives it a modern look that is sure to impress. The product is also designed to be compatible with a wide range of small block Chevy engines, making it a versatile choice for many different applications.

Overall, the SBC Small Block Chevy 350 400 Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Angle Plug 205cc intake 64cc chamber is a high-quality product that provides excellent performance and durability. Its lightweight aluminum construction, optimized valve configuration, and superior sealing make it an ideal choice for high-performance engines. With its sleek design and compatibility with many small block Chevy engines, it is a versatile and practical option for many different applications.

5. Chevy Sbc Assembled Aluminum Camel Double Hump 461 Cylinder Head

The Chevy SBC Assembled Aluminum Camel Double Hump 461 Cylinder Head is a high-performance cylinder head designed for 4" bore small block engines from 1962-86, including the 302, 327, and 350. This cylinder head features a 180cc intake runner and a 62cc exhaust runner, with 2.02" intake and 1.60" exhaust valves and a 1.560" max spring pocket diameter.

One of the unique features of this cylinder head is that it is forged from premium quality aluminum, which reduces the weight of the car by 40 lbs. compared to traditional iron heads. This not only improves the overall performance of the car but also makes it more fuel-efficient.

The Chevy SBC Assembled Aluminum Camel Double Hump 461 Cylinder Head is also designed with an improved port/chamber shape, which promotes better performance with the 3-angle machined valve job that promotes better flow, especially at low-to-mid lifts. This ensures that the engine runs smoothly and efficiently, even at higher speeds.

In addition, this cylinder head comes fully assembled with no accessory bolt holes, just like the original heads. This makes it easy to install and ensures that it is compatible with a wide range of engines. The cylinder head is also designed to be durable and long-lasting, making it a great investment for car enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Overall, the Chevy SBC Assembled Aluminum Camel Double Hump 461 Cylinder Head is a high-quality product that offers exceptional performance and durability. Whether you're a car enthusiast looking to upgrade your engine or a professional mechanic looking for a reliable product for your clients, this cylinder head is a great choice.

6. Jegs Sbc Vortec Cast Iron Cylinder Head – 1/pkg, 1.94" Intake, 1.5" Exhaust Valve, 170cc Intake Ports, .475" Max Lift. Made In Usa.

The JEGS Small Block Chevy Vortec Cast Iron Cylinder Head is a high-quality aftermarket part that is designed to fit all 1955-present GM small blocks, excluding LT1, LT4, and LS1-style engines. Made in the USA, this cylinder head features a straight spark plug design and comes with one per package.

One of the key features of this cylinder head is its use of Fast Burn combustion chambers and high-velocity intake and exhaust ports. These features allow for improved airflow and increased power output compared to a standard cylinder head.

The JEGS Small Block Chevy Vortec Cast Iron Cylinder Head is designed to perform great right out of the box, but it can also be mildly ported and milled up to 0.040 inch for even better performance. However, it is important to note that installation of this cylinder head requires a Vortec-style intake manifold.

In terms of specifications, this cylinder head features a 1.94-inch intake valve and a 1.5-inch exhaust valve, as well as 170cc intake ports and a .475-inch max lift. It also has a straight spark plug design, 3/8-inch rocker arm studs, and 64cc combustion chambers. Additionally, it comes equipped with 1.25-inch valve springs.

Overall, the JEGS Small Block Chevy Vortec Cast Iron Cylinder Head is a top-of-the-line aftermarket part that is designed to enhance the performance of your GM small block engine. Whether you're looking for improved power output or better airflow, this cylinder head is a great choice that is sure to deliver results.

7. Brodix Bb-2 Xtra Aluminum Cylinder Head For Big Block Chevy With 365 Cc Intake, 119 Cc Chamber, 2.300/1.880 In Valves, And 1.550 In Springs, Sold Individually.

The Brodix Cylinder Head, BB-2 Xtra, is a top-quality product designed to meet the demands of high-performance big block Chevy engines. This cylinder head is CNC-ported to a mirror finish, ensuring precise and consistent airflow to the engine. The ports are also designed to flow within 1% of each other, which guarantees uniform power output across all cylinders.

The BB-2 Xtra is equipped with 2.300/1.880 inch valves and has a 365 cc intake volume, which allows for higher airflow and better engine performance. The cylinder head has a 119 cc chamber and comes with 1.550 inch springs, which are designed to provide excellent valve control and reduce valve bounce.

The Brodix Cylinder Head, BB-2 Xtra, is made of high-quality aluminum, which provides superior heat dissipation and reduces engine weight. The aluminum construction also makes the cylinder head more durable, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability.

This cylinder head is sold as an assembled package, which includes all necessary components and hardware for installation. The package dimensions are 8.9 inches in height, 23.3 inches in length, and 10.1 inches in width, while the package weight is 47.45 pounds. The Brodix Cylinder Head, BB-2 Xtra, is made in the USA and is a testament to the quality and craftsmanship that is synonymous with American-made products.

In conclusion, the Brodix Cylinder Head, BB-2 Xtra, is an excellent choice for anyone looking to boost the performance of their big block Chevy engine. Its superior airflow, valve control, and durability make it the perfect addition to any high-performance engine build, and its American-made quality ensures that it will provide reliable and consistent performance for years to come.

8. Dna Motoring Lepow-038 Aluminum Bare Angled Cylinder Head [For Chevy Sbc 302/327/350/383/400]

The DNA Motoring LEPOW-038 Aluminum Bare Angled Cylinder Head is an ideal choice for those looking to enhance the performance of their Chevy SBC 302/327/350/383/400 engine. Made from high-grade aluminum, this cylinder head is designed to withstand high temperatures and provide excellent durability.

One of the key features of this cylinder head is its advanced port design, which allows for greater air flow and better performance. The head comes with bronze valve guides and hardened seats, which ensure smooth and reliable valve operation over time. Additionally, the 3-angle valve seat design ensures better sealing and improved combustion.

The LEPOW-038 cylinder head has a 200cc intake runner with a 68cc combustion chamber. The 68cc combustion chamber is particularly beneficial for engines made in 1970 or earlier, as it helps to retain stock compression while improving performance. The intake valve diameter is 2.020 inches, while the exhaust valve diameter is 1.600 inches. The intake port volume is 200cc, while the combustion chamber volume is 68cc. The intake and exhaust ports are both square in shape.

One of the advantages of using an aluminum cylinder head is that it is lighter than iron heads, which can help improve the overall performance of the engine. Each head weighs 10.33kg, making it a practical choice for those looking to reduce the weight of their engine. The spark plug angle is angled, which provides better access and makes it easier to install and remove spark plugs.

In conclusion, the DNA Motoring LEPOW-038 Aluminum Bare Angled Cylinder Head is an excellent choice for those looking to upgrade their Chevy SBC 302/327/350/383/400 engine. With its high-grade aluminum construction, advanced port design, and 3-angle valve seat, this cylinder head is designed to provide excellent performance and durability. Additionally, its lightweight construction and angled spark plug angle make it a practical and easy-to-use choice for any engine builder.

9. Aluminum Cylinder Head For Chevy Small Block 350 With 200cc Intake And 64cc Camaro Z28, Chevelle, Monte Carlo, Hot Rods, Street Rods.

The SBC 350 Cylinder Head is an outstanding choice for Chevy small block engines, including 302, 327, 350, 383, and 400 models up to 1986. Made of high-grade aluminum, this cylinder head boasts advanced port design for maximum air flow, ensuring peak performance and power output.

In addition to its superior material, the SBC 350 Cylinder Head features bronze valve guides and hardened seats, ensuring durability and longevity. This head is engineered with a 200cc intake runner and a 64cc combustion chamber, which enhances performance and retains stock compression on 1970 and earlier models.

One of the exceptional features of the SBC 350 Cylinder Head is its thick deck design. This design makes it ideal for use in nitrous, turbocharged, and supercharged applications, allowing for the ultimate in power and performance.

This cylinder head is a perfect fit for a range of popular cars, including Camaro Z28, Chevelle, Monte Carlo, Hot Rods, Street Rods, and many more. Its compatibility with a wide range of models ensures its versatility and usefulness to a broad audience of automotive enthusiasts.

The SBC 350 Cylinder Head is a must-have for anyone seeking to upgrade their Chevy small block engine's performance. With its superior material, advanced port design, and thick deck design, this cylinder head will provide the power and performance you need for your car to excel on the road or at the track.

Best Small Block Chevy Cylinder Heads FAQs

How do small block Chevy cylinder heads affect engine compression ratio and fuel economy?

Small block Chevy cylinder heads can affect engine compression ratio and fuel economy in several ways. Firstly, the combustion chamber design and size of the cylinder head can impact the compression ratio, which is the ratio of the volume above the piston at bottom dead center to the volume above the piston at top dead center. A larger combustion chamber will reduce the compression ratio, while a smaller chamber will increase it. This can affect fuel economy and power output, as higher compression ratios can lead to more efficient combustion and better performance.

Secondly, the airflow characteristics of the cylinder head can impact fuel economy and power output. A well-designed cylinder head with good airflow can result in better fuel efficiency by allowing the engine to breathe more efficiently. Additionally, the valve size and lift can also affect airflow and fuel economy, with larger valves and more lift generally resulting in better performance but lower fuel economy. Overall, the design and specifications of small block Chevy cylinder heads can have a significant impact on engine performance and fuel economy.

How do the airflow characteristics of small block Chevy cylinder heads impact engine performance?

The airflow characteristics of small block Chevy cylinder heads have a significant impact on engine performance. The design of the cylinder head affects the amount of air that can flow through the engine, which in turn affects the combustion process and power output. A well-designed cylinder head will promote efficient airflow and allow the engine to breathe easier, resulting in increased horsepower and torque. The shape of the ports and valves, as well as the size and shape of the combustion chamber, all play a role in determining the airflow characteristics of the cylinder head. Additionally, factors such as compression ratio, camshaft profile, and intake manifold design must also be considered when optimizing the airflow characteristics of the engine. Overall, careful consideration of the cylinder head design is essential for achieving maximum engine performance.

What are the benefits of using aftermarket small block Chevy cylinder heads compared to stock heads?

Aftermarket small block Chevy cylinder heads offer several benefits over stock heads. Firstly, they usually have larger ports and valves, which allow for better airflow and increased horsepower. Secondly, they are often made from better materials, such as aluminum, which reduces weight and improves heat dissipation. Thirdly, aftermarket heads may feature improved combustion chambers and valve angles, leading to better fuel efficiency and power delivery. Additionally, they may have stronger valve springs and retainers, allowing for higher RPMs and better durability. Finally, aftermarket heads offer more customization options, such as different port shapes and sizes, allowing for precise tuning to match specific engine setups and performance goals. Overall, using aftermarket small block Chevy cylinder heads can significantly improve engine performance, making them an attractive option for performance enthusiasts and racers.

What are the best small block Chevy cylinder heads for high-performance engines?

The best small block Chevy cylinder heads for high-performance engines are the ones that offer good airflow, combustion efficiency, and durability. Some of the top options for small block Chevy cylinder heads include the AFR 195cc, 210cc, and 220cc heads, the Edelbrock E-TEC 170cc, 180cc, and 200cc heads, and the Dart Pro 1 180cc, 200cc, and 215cc heads. These heads are designed to optimize airflow and provide excellent combustion efficiency, resulting in increased horsepower and torque. They also feature high-quality materials and construction for improved durability and reliability. When choosing the best cylinder heads for your high-performance engine, consider your specific needs and goals, as well as your budget, to make the right decision.

What are the differences between cast iron and aluminum small block Chevy cylinder heads?

Cast iron and aluminum small block Chevy cylinder heads have several differences. Cast iron heads are typically heavier and retain heat longer than aluminum heads. This can be an advantage in colder climates, where heat retention can help the engine warm up faster. However, in warmer climates, aluminum heads are preferred because they dissipate heat faster, helping to prevent engine overheating. Aluminum heads are also usually more expensive than cast iron heads, but they offer better performance due to their lighter weight and improved airflow. Cast iron heads are often stronger and more durable than aluminum heads, but they are more prone to cracking under extreme conditions such as high horsepower or high RPMs. In contrast, aluminum heads are more prone to warping under extreme conditions. The choice between cast iron and aluminum heads ultimately depends on the intended use of the engine and the preferences of the builder.

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