marcelo_caz

Hello everyone. I've been doing some research on this and keep seeing different answers and its getting me even more confused so maybe I can start this fresh, and see whats the best option.

I have a set of 853 heads that I was planing on getting ported and polished, new valves, springs, and all the good stuff for my LS1 (original engine out of a 01 camaro).

But I keep hearing good things about 243 heads... my question is, Should I spend the money and get all that done on a 853 heads or just buy a 243 heads, upgrade the springs and call it good?

Which one would be cheaper, and which one would performe better?

Thanks for the help.

HCI2000SS

iTrader: (2)

Well the 853's will obviously be cheaper since you already have them, but the 243's will perform better, so you need to weigh that decision

camaroboy408

iTrader: (6)

243's all the way.

KCS

iTrader: (20)

Ported 853's vs. stock 243's?

If done right, the 853's will perform better but expect to pay close to $1000 all said and done. The 243's usually cost around $400, but they won't perform as well and they are used and not freshly machined and inspected like the 853's will.

TransAmTimmy

Ok so I'm some what in the same boat as you, I have a set of 241 heads... I am going to do the port and polish work myself. It will save me the 5-600 to have them sent out for the work. I am new to LS engines, but I have built plenty of Gen 2 carburated and LT1s.. I also have been told that the 243 designs are better starting point for port work. My 241s were free so I'm using them to save money but Everyone I have spoken to says if you can find 243s for a cheap price you have a better starting point for more POWER! But good port work on any head WILL wake up any engine, just depends on you budget, that's why I'm sticking with the 241s for now. Also look into port match you intake and headers. Can make a few more ponies from that. Good Luck!

TransAmTimmy

Another thing I noticed and I'm not sure if anyone can back me up... After looking at the intake port on the LS heads I noticed that there was a build up of carbon maybe with some burnt oil in the intake port, maybe this hurts performance?? Maybe someone could chime in. I noticed that the casting is a good place for the oil and crap to build up. Anyway The porter around here was charging $5-600 for just the porting and polish, not included the Mil and valve job that used heads should get.