need 460 heads!

bran3b · #1 (**permalink**) 04-20-2003, 04:47 PM

It is time to retire my cast 460 heads. I have an overheating problem, and coolant is disappearing. I haven't found any in the crankcase, so I think that I am just starting to develop a cracked gasket or head. As long as I am pulling the heads I would like to help the performance a little. I have an Edelbrock Torker manifold, matching cam and 9.3 to 1 compression. How would Performer heads work with this setup?

I have seen threads recommending Ford SVO, Blue Thunder, and Weiand Stealth heads, are these still available. Are they worth the added price. Have there been any new developments in 429/460 heads since 2000?

Thanks,

shnookie · #2 (**permalink**) 04-20-2003, 05:41 PM

I have the new Edelbrock's. Blue thunder also makes a good set.
Here are the Edelbrock specs. from their site.

Performer RPM 460
Designed for 1968-87 429/460 Fords, these Performer RPM heads are ideal for high-performance street, drag racing and marine applications. These heads made over 500+ hp at 6500 rpm (+30 hp more than ported factory heads) and 525+ ft/lbs. of torque at 4500 rpm with the Performer RPM Total Power Package. Two combustion chamber sizes are available (75cc and 95cc) to offer a variety of compression ratio choices with engines of various size. Both of these heads match with Edelbrock Performer #2166 or Performer RPM #7166 for a proven combination. Intake ports can be opened up to match Victor manifolds #2965 and #2966. They accept factory exhaust, aftermarket headers and factory valvetrain components. Requires the use of 3/8" diameter pushrods. See chart for more specs.
Performer RPM 460
Chamber Size Bare (single) Complete (single)
95cc #60689* #60669*
75cc #60699* #60679*

Tom Wells · #3 (**permalink**) 04-20-2003, 06:13 PM

Hi Brandon,

Whichever heads and rockers you decide to use, pay close attention to pushrod lengths. There's a procedure to follow to get the length correct - highly recommended!

Tom

bran3b · #4 (**permalink**) 04-20-2003, 06:22 PM

Tom,

I didn't actually think of the pushrods. If I replace the pushrods will I have to replace the lifters as well? The whole engine has 1500 miles on it, so the parts are still good (with the possible exception of the heads).

Thanks,

Tom Wells · #5 (**permalink**) 04-20-2003, 06:29 PM

Hi Brandon,

Lifters should be OK. If they are non-roller lifters they need to stay in the same place on the cam, though.

Tom

PS: Ford just came out with a new aluminum SCJ head to replace their existing unit. Probably need to use large-port intake/exhaust manifolds with it to get the full benefit...

Mohuska · #6 (**permalink**) 04-21-2003, 07:48 PM

There is only one head I would consider....Here is the link....

http://www.jonkaaseracingengines.com...d_s_new_s.html

djseed · #7 (**permalink**) 04-22-2003, 08:41 AM

Bran3b:

I bought the new Ford Jon Kaase heads directly from Jon. He was very knowledgable and had good prices and service. I used them on a street stroker. I do not have a radical cam and did not have to notch the pistons. I posted the flow numbers a while back.

Flows for New Jon Kaase SCJ Heads

Another good article is from Car Craft.

http://www.carcraft.com/techarticles...html?terms=scj

I really like the fact that they produce the same power with less advance. I think 28 is recommended. This should lessen the chance of detonation.