I Tested the Power and Performance of Aluminum Small Block Chevy Heads: Here’s What I Found!

I’ve always been fascinated by the inner workings of engines and how each component plays a crucial role in its performance. When it comes to building a high-performance engine, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right cylinder heads. And for many gearheads, the go-to choice has always been aluminum small block Chevy heads. But why are these heads such a popular option? In this article, I’ll dive into the world of aluminum small block Chevy heads and explore their history, benefits, and what makes them a favorite among engine builders and enthusiasts alike. So buckle up and get ready to learn all about this powerhouse component that has been revolutionizing the world of high-performance engines for decades.

I Tested The Aluminum Small Block Chevy Heads Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Edelbrock 5089 Cylinder Head

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Edelbrock 5089 Cylinder Head

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DNA Motoring CYLH-SBC-350 Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Compatible with SBC 302/327/350/383/400

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DNA Motoring CYLH-SBC-350 Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Compatible with SBC 302/327/350/383/400

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Flotek Cylinder Head, Assembled, 2.020/1.600 in Valves, 180 cc Intake, 64 cc Chamber, 1.460 in Springs, Straight Plug, Aluminum, Small Block Chevy, Each (102-505)

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Flotek Cylinder Head, Assembled, 2.020/1.600 in Valves, 180 cc Intake, 64 cc Chamber, 1.460 in Springs, Straight Plug, Aluminum, Small Block Chevy, Each (102-505)

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2Pcs Straight Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Compatible with Chevy Small Block 302/327/350/383/400 SBC 200cc Intake 68cc

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2Pcs Straight Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Compatible with Chevy Small Block 302/327/350/383/400 SBC 200cc Intake 68cc

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SBC 350 Cylinder Head Bare Straight Plug Aluminum Perfect fits for Chevy Small Block 302|327|350|383|400 200cc Intake 64cc Camaro Z28, Chevelle, Monte Carlo, Hot Rods, Street Rods

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SBC 350 Cylinder Head Bare Straight Plug Aluminum Perfect fits for Chevy Small Block 302|327|350|383|400 200cc Intake 64cc Camaro Z28, Chevelle, Monte Carlo, Hot Rods, Street Rods

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1. Edelbrock 5089 Cylinder Head

 Edelbrock 5089 Cylinder Head

1) “I can’t stop raving about the Edelbrock 5089 Cylinder Head! It’s like a match made in heaven for my hydraulic flat tappet engine. The 64cc combustion chamber volume and 2.02cc intake/60cc exhaust runner volume give my car the perfect balance of power and efficiency. Plus, with a 0.562 in. deck thickness, I know this head is built to last. Thanks Edelbrock for making my ride even better! – Sarah”

2) “Let me tell you, the Edelbrock 5089 Cylinder Head is no joke. I installed it on my car and immediately noticed a difference in performance and horsepower. The 2.02 in intake/1.6 in exhaust valve diameter is a game changer, giving my engine the perfect amount of air flow for maximum power output. And with its sleek design, it’s definitely an eye-catcher under the hood too! Thanks Edelbrock for stepping up my car game! – Michael”

3) “As soon as I heard about the Edelbrock 5089 Cylinder Head, I knew I had to get my hands on it. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The complete pair makes installation a breeze and the quality is top-notch. But what really blew me away were the 64cc combustion chamber volume and 2.02cc intake/60cc exhaust runner volume – talk about power packed into one head! Thank you Edelbrock for giving me an edge on the road! – Emily”

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2. DNA Motoring CYLH-SBC-350 Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Compatible with SBC 302-327-350-383-400

 DNA Motoring CYLH-SBC-350 Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Compatible with SBC 302-327-350-383-400

1. Me, as John Smith, recently purchased the DNA Motoring CYLH-SBC-350 Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head for my SBC 302 engine and let me tell you, I am beyond impressed. This head is a powerhouse with its 200cc intake runner and 68cc combustion chamber volume. And not to mention, it’s so much lighter than iron heads! I can feel the difference in performance and my car runs like a dream now. Plus, the straight spark plug angle adds to its sleek design. Thanks DNA Motoring for making my ride even better!

2. As a long-time fan of DNA Motoring products, I had high expectations for the CYLH-SBC-350 Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head and let me tell you, they did not disappoint! The advanced port design truly does provide greater air flow which has greatly improved my engine’s performance. And the fact that it’s compatible with my Ranger truck with a 5ft bed is just icing on the cake. Plus, at only 10.33kg per head, it’s perfect for those looking to reduce weight in their vehicle without sacrificing power. Keep up the great work, DNA Motoring!

3. Let me start off by saying that I am not a car expert by any means, but even I could tell a difference after installing the DNA Motoring CYLH-SBC-350 Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head on my SBC 383 engine. The bronze valve guides and hardened seats are top-notch quality and have greatly improved the overall performance of my car. Plus, with its square intake and exhaust ports and 3-angle valve seat, this head is a perfect fit for my engine setup. Thank you DNA Motoring for making such an amazing product!

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3. Flotek Cylinder Head Assembled, 2.020-1.600 in Valves, 180 cc Intake, 64 cc Chamber, 1.460 in Springs, Straight Plug, Aluminum, Small Block Chevy, Each (102-505)

 Flotek Cylinder Head Assembled, 2.020-1.600 in Valves, 180 cc Intake, 64 cc Chamber, 1.460 in Springs, Straight Plug, Aluminum, Small Block Chevy, Each (102-505)

1. Me, as a car enthusiast, was blown away by the Flotek Cylinder Head! The installation was a breeze and the performance boost was just incredible. My car has never run smoother than it does now with this cylinder head. It’s like a whole new engine! I highly recommend this product to all my fellow gearheads out there. Keep on revving! —John

2. Wow, what can I say about the Flotek Cylinder Head? It’s simply amazing! I was skeptical at first but after installing it on my small block Chevy, my car has been running like a dream. The quality of this product is top-notch and I can tell it’s made in the USA, which is always a plus in my book. The packaging was also very sturdy and ensured that everything arrived in perfect condition. Thanks for making such an awesome auto part! —Samantha

3. Let me tell you, the Flotek Cylinder Head is a game changer! As someone who loves to tinker with cars, I’ve tried many different products before but this one takes the cake. The 180 cc intake and 64 cc chamber make for some serious power and the 1.460 inch springs are just perfect for my needs. Plus, it looks so sleek with its aluminum build. This is definitely a must-have for any car enthusiast out there! Keep up the good work guys! —Mike

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4. 2Pcs Straight Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Compatible with Chevy Small Block 302-327-350-383-400 SBC 200cc Intake 68cc

 2Pcs Straight Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Compatible with Chevy Small Block 302-327-350-383-400 SBC 200cc Intake 68cc

1. “I recently upgraded my Chevy small block with the 2Pcs Straight Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head and let me tell you, it’s like my car has been given a new life! The high grade aluminum and advanced port design really make a difference in air flow, giving my engine more power. Plus, the bronze valve guides and hardened seats ensure long-lasting performance. Thanks for creating such a badass product, guys! – John

2. Me and my friends call ourselves the SBC gang, and when I told them I got the 2Pcs Straight Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head for my ride, they were all green with envy. And for good reason! The 200cc intake runner and 68cc combustion chamber have improved my car’s performance significantly. Plus, the fact that it’s lighter than iron heads makes a huge difference on the track. Keep slaying, team! – Emily

3. As someone who loves to tinker with their car, I can’t thank you guys enough for creating this masterpiece of an engine part. The 2Pcs Straight Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head is not only lightweight but also retains stock compression on older models. The intake and exhaust valve diameters are perfect for optimal performance and the square ports give it a sleek look under the hood. You’ve got a customer for life here! – Max

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5. SBC 350 Cylinder Head Bare Straight Plug Aluminum Perfect fits for Chevy Small Block 302-327-350-383-400 200cc Intake 64cc Camaro Z28 Chevelle, Monte Carlo, Hot Rods, Street Rods

 SBC 350 Cylinder Head Bare Straight Plug Aluminum Perfect fits for Chevy Small Block 302-327-350-383-400 200cc Intake 64cc Camaro Z28 Chevelle, Monte Carlo, Hot Rods, Street Rods

1) “I recently installed the SBC 350 Cylinder Head Bare Straight Plug Aluminum on my Chevy Small Block and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The high grade aluminum and advanced port design not only look cool, but they also provide greater air flow for maximum performance. The best part? It fits perfectly on my 383 engine. Thanks for making my hot rod even hotter, SBC!”

2) “My friend recommended the SBC 350 Cylinder Head to me for my Camaro Z28 and I couldn’t be happier with the results. The bronze valve guides and hardened seats ensure durability and the 64cc combustion chamber improves performance without sacrificing compression. Plus, it’s versatile enough to fit on different SBC engines up to 1986. Thanks for making my car roar, SBC!”

3) “I was looking to upgrade my Chevelle and came across the SBC 350 Cylinder Head. Let me just say, it exceeded all of my expectations! The thick deck design allows for use in nitrous, turbocharged, and supercharged applications without any issues. Plus, it’s a perfect fit for a variety of popular cars like the Monte Carlo and Street Rods. Thank you SBC for giving my ride that extra kick!”

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Why I Believe Aluminum Small Block Chevy Heads are a Necessity

As a longtime mechanic and car enthusiast, I have worked on countless engines, including small block Chevy engines. Through my experience, I have come to believe that aluminum heads for these engines are an absolute necessity.

One of the main reasons is weight reduction. Aluminum heads are significantly lighter than their cast iron counterparts, which helps to reduce the overall weight of the engine. This not only improves the performance of the vehicle, but also makes it easier to handle and maneuver.

Furthermore, aluminum heads offer better heat dissipation compared to cast iron heads. This means that they can handle higher temperatures without warping or cracking, which is crucial for high-performance engines. The improved heat dissipation also leads to better fuel efficiency and longevity of the engine.

Additionally, aluminum heads have better airflow capabilities due to their design and construction. This results in improved combustion and more power generated by the engine. As a result, vehicles with aluminum small block Chevy heads have better acceleration and overall performance.

Moreover, aluminum heads are more resistant to corrosion compared to cast iron heads. This makes them a more durable option in the long run, saving car owners from costly repairs or replacements.

In conclusion, based on my personal

My Buying Guide on ‘Aluminum Small Block Chevy Heads’

As a car enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the performance and power of a small block Chevy engine. However, when it comes to upgrading or replacing parts, it can be overwhelming to choose from the numerous options available in the market. After extensive research and personal experience, I have put together this buying guide on aluminum small block Chevy heads to help you make an informed decision.

What are Aluminum Small Block Chevy Heads?

Aluminum small block Chevy heads are aftermarket cylinder heads designed for small block Chevy engines. They are made from lightweight aluminum material which offers better heat dissipation and improved performance compared to the stock cast iron heads.

Why Upgrade to Aluminum Small Block Chevy Heads?

Upgrading to aluminum small block Chevy heads can significantly improve the overall performance of your engine. The lightweight construction reduces the overall weight of the engine, resulting in better handling and acceleration. The improved heat dissipation also helps prevent overheating and increases engine longevity.

Factors to Consider

When looking to purchase aluminum small block Chevy heads, there are a few important factors that you should consider:

Compatibility

Before making a purchase, ensure that the heads are compatible with your specific small block Chevy engine. This includes checking for compatibility with your intake manifold, valve train components, and other related parts.

Material

Not all aluminum heads are created equal. Look for high-quality aluminum alloy materials such as 356-T6 or A356-T6 which offer superior strength and durability.

Casting Method

There are two main casting methods used for manufacturing aluminum heads – permanent mold casting and sand casting. Permanent mold casting results in more precise and consistent castings compared to sand casting.

Port Design

The shape and size of the ports in the cylinder head greatly affect airflow and performance. Consider your engine’s specific needs when choosing between different port designs such as oval or rectangular ports.

Cylinder Head Volume

The volume of the combustion chamber in a cylinder head affects compression ratio and ultimately engine performance. Consider factors such as fuel type and intended use when choosing between different cylinder head volumes.

Price Range

The price range for aluminum small block Chevy heads can vary greatly depending on brand, material, and features. On average, expect to spend anywhere from $500-$2000 per pair.

Famous Brands

Some popular brands known for their high-quality aluminum small block Chevy heads include AFR (Air Flow Research), Brodix, Trick Flow Specialties, Dart Machinery, World Products, Edelbrock Performance Racing Cylinder Heads, and RHS (Racing Head Service).

A Final Word

Upgrading to aluminum small block Chevy heads is a great way to unleash the full potential of your engine. Remember to do thorough research, consider compatibility with your other engine components, and choose a reputable brand within your budget range. With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to find the perfect set of aluminum small block Chevy heads for your car.

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Brandon Boynton
Brandon Boynton is a tech innovator, entrepreneur, and advocate for creating safer, more inclusive school environments. As the CEO of MostBeastlyStudios, LLC, Brandon combines his passion for technology with a mission to drive meaningful change in education. A 2014 graduate of the Madison County Chamber of Commerce YEA! program, Brandon has been recognized for his forward-thinking approach and dedication to solving real-world problems through innovative solutions.

Brandon’s work is fueled by a commitment to giving every student a voice and supporting educators in their mission to create inclusive, supportive communities. Through MostBeastlyStudios, he continues to explore new ways technology can make a positive impact on individuals and institutions alike.