I recently purchased a partially torn apart TA. The previous owner gave me some 862 heads and some 317 heads. I eventually want to supercharge it but that will be a long while before that happens. I want to keep it NA for now. Which heads should I use? Also I need to replace the valve springs, intake and exhaust valves as well but I have no clue what size go to get for the heads. The cam that is installed is the Texas speed MS3 238/242, .600/.600. Im really new to the LS world. Thank you for any help and advice!

 

I run PRC stage 2.5/5.3 heads from Texas Speed. They are the 862 casting. My cam is also very similar to the one you have listed. It does really good for what it is

 

How long is a long time before the supercharger goes in? If it is not that long, I would use the 317 heads since it will drop your compression ratio. If you are talking about ambitious forced induction goals that won't see fruition for years, then use the 862 heads. Why are you replacing the valves, going bigger for more air flow?

 

I am looking at possibly another year or two. Right now I am just trying to get the car put back together with moderate HP until I can save enough money for the procharger kit I want. There are two bent valves in the 317 heads and the 862 heads appear to has set in a junk yard for several month and there is rust on the valve springs and valves. I am wanting a set of 243 heads currently but I can't seem to find some decent ones as of yet.

 

Go with the 862 heads. if you can spend a little money have some port work done when you have the valve work done and cut them for 2.0" intake valves.
the ls1 with that cam will like the additional compression from the smaller 61cc 862 heads. imho the c.r. would be to low using the 317 heads. Probably around 9.5ish

 

jetech is right, compression ratio would be around 9.5ish:1 with the 317 heads using a factory thickness head gasket. That sucks for the MS3 cam. Compression would still be under 10:1c.r. even using a 0.040" head gasket, still sucky for that cam. I wouldn't do that. IMO, since it'll be a couple years or so until supercharging, send the 862 heads in to get cleaned up with new valves and at least have 2.00" intake valves installed. Have the heads cnc'd ported if it fits the budget. Porting the heads could also fetch more cash down the road if you end up trying to sell them, just keep all paperwork and receipts. Keep the 317 heads around for when you supercharge. You can always clean those up and install new valves down the road when needed.

 

I would run the 862 for now and get the 317s worked for when you are ready to supercharge, But than again I have had some buddys that say they are going forced induction and build their motors for it an just never get to it, then they have some what of a slug, my buddy currently has 72cc heads on his car and was suppose to be turboed about 4 years ago now lol