CaptUSA

iTrader: (5)

I've got a TR224 package and Mac headers ready to install, but since a tune is so expensive, I"m thinking about doing heads also. My goal is a trouble free, 'stockish' drivability car.

I've been reading up on heads as much as I can, but I'd like some personal oppinions too. Does it change the sound or idle? Gas miliage? etc... Basically, what are the con's to putting a set of heads on?

Last but not least, what do you suppose is the best match for a TR224?

Thanks guys!!

GTO_Scott

iTrader: (3)

If you have $2100 AFR 205 heads will meet both performance and drivability, they are at the top of the list for a LS1.

JimMueller

iTrader: (9)

Cons? Hmmm..

- Cost
- The valvetrain might be noisier. Some refer to it as a sewing machine noise.
- The heads by themselves won't affect the idle
- Fuel economy may get better depending upon the head porting style
- If you like the additional power, your foot may cause additional fuel bills

TEA seems to better more bang for the buck than AFR, although my piggy bank has AFR scribbled on it

silverTA2002

iTrader: (1)

If you have $1500, TEA heads are great as well.

I just installed them this week.

As far as driveability, my car drives just like stock under 2k, and screams above it. I was really surprised.

If anything, heads will always HELP driveability. They create power across the board, and don't make the car louder, rougher, etc.

silverTA2002

iTrader: (1)

in fact, I just made a thread about driveability here...

https://ls1tech.com/forums/generation-iii-internal-engine/388377-h-c-driveability-no-problem.html

CaptUSA

iTrader: (5)

Thanks for the quick answers. That's interesting about the fuel economy. I've heard both now. Some say worse, some say better...

I've been tracking the AFR / TEA debate for the last couple of days. I'm not exactly in the made out of money crowd, so I would probably end up with a TEA setup. What are your thoughts on Patriot? There seems to be a split here too.

One thing, why would you put 5.3 heads on a 5.7 engine? I know it must be good because people do it all the time, but I don't understand it.

What is the best way to match my heads to my cam? Which numbers do I need to be looking at?

Thanks again.

ssheets

iTrader: (1)

5.3 heads have the same ports with the chamber ~.030" lower for a volume of 61.15cc while 5.7 heads have 66.67cc. The 5.3s come stock with 1.89" intake valves, but these are usually replaced with 2.02" or larger. (LS1 heads have 2.00" intakes)

End result is you get about .9 points increase in compresion without having to mill the heads.

vettenuts

iTrader: (4)

I also believe that the 5.3 heads provide the option of CNC working the chamber while the 5.7 heads do not, thereby allowing the porter to change the chamber for balancing and flow.

JEB99TA

iTrader: (32)

I couldn't tell you, but, when I get back home to Central Florida, I'll let you know the difference in driveability. My AFR 205's are being installed now.

CaptUSA

iTrader: (5)

I see. So the 5.3's move less volume, but make up for it with the higher compression ratio. That makes sense. So really you can't go wrong either way, but if you had a huge cam that needed a ton of air you would want the larger heads correct?

I've not seen the 224 refered to by anybody as a huge cam, so it's looking like the 5.3's may be the best route for me to take. It'd be cool to grab some AFR's, but the wallet says no. What do you recomend for the TEA's or PP's? Stage 1.5? Or do I need to go larger than that to make it worth while? I'm looking for a DD here.

Congrats on your install Jeb99. Good luck on your results!!!!

GTO_Scott

iTrader: (3)

I was split between ET and AFR heads when I was looking. I didn't mill my AFR heads (so not a drastic CR increase), but with the 205s and 216/220 camshaft I saw an increase in highway fuel economy. I don't think the normal city driven was hurt either.

I believe you build a complete package, otherwise you will regret it later. I wouldn't purchase parts seperately based on recommendations, but as a system that is meant to work together.

PPs are inexpensive, are not going to be top performers, and had problems in the past that to my understanding have been resolved. I would not purchase heads based on a limited budget, I would wait an buy quality heads that will meet all of your goals.

CaptUSA

iTrader: (5)

The problem is, that I bought the Cam package several months ago, and don't want to have to take a bath on the stuff. Selling parts, even NIB is not an easy thing to do. With how popular the TR224 is, there has to be a set of heads that are a perfect match up.

I've been searching for information on the two together, but the hits I get aren't the best. Any suggestions? Even search suggestions would be welcome (ie, "Heads, TR224" etc...)

I know everybody loves the AFR 205's, but if there is a cheaper alternative that gives me something like 5 less hp, then I'll take it.

With aftermarket heads, are you supposed to run a cam with a longer exhaust duration? I notice you have a 216/220.

shudog

iTrader: (3)

ttt for ya. Good stuff in here....

jrp

iTrader: (16)

shoot me a PM or email.

CaptUSA

iTrader: (5)

Thanks brother.

CaptUSA

iTrader: (5)

Email coming your way boss. Can't believe you would still be willing to have anything to do with me.

REDWS6ROCKET

iTrader: (4)

i am very happy with my partriot 5.3's.

djsanchez2

iTrader: (14)

redws6... What are you pulling with the patriots? this is a good thread considering i am deep in the think tank about what my h/c choices will be.

REDWS6ROCKET

iTrader: (4)

well with the old setup that it had when i got it it made 367/341 with ls1 intake. the cam was custom built for a 6speed N20 car. getting ready to redyno with no set up hopefully in the 380 range. car still has ls1 intake but pulls so much harder after the swap. i have no extra noise and the car was daily driven before i got it. great heads for the money