Thread: Edelbrock Performer RPM on Vortek Heads?

Tweet

I just pulled the Edelbrock Performer RPM intake on my crate SBC with Vortec heads (I assume they are Vortec heads).

There are 6 coolant ports as I look at under the intake. The two on the end closest to the destributor side of the engine look like they will flow, but they are blocked with the intake because there are no ports on the Performer RPM. Is that correct? It seems that all 6 should be able to flow through the intake.

Again, I am new to SBC's and this is my first time breaking into one.

The previous owner (said he only drove it 5 minutes total) did not tighten the intake manifold bolts down much at all (the carb or valve cover bolts, either), so I assume that the rust marks above all the coolant ports are from a slight leak. Oil was getting past the exhaust manifold bolts, too. There was some RTV on the manifold gasket, too. My wife moved the camera, so I can't post pics until tomorrow.

Anyway, I am cleaning it all up to put back together this weekend. I have Red high temp RTV for the ends of the manifold. I have heard that I should not even try to use the supplied end gaskets - just RTV. I also have Tack & Seal for around the ports. Am I going about this right?

I bought the wrong manifold gaskets as there is no center coolant port. I guess I have to get one that is Vortec specific? The guys at the parts store need makes and models. I wonder what I tell them to get the right manifold gasket for these heads?

Thanks for any help. You guys have led me in the right direction so far! I have plenty more questions where these came from!

It is a 7101 and here here is what Summit says about it:

Designed for 1955-86 262-400 c.i.d. Chevy V8s for maximum power and a broad torque curve for high- performance street/marine. Provides power like a single-plane and throttle response like a dual-plane. Has provisions to add oil fill tube. No provisions for exhaust heated or stock-style choke. Accepts late- model waterneck, air-conditioning, alternator and H.E.I. Will fit cast iron Chevrolet Bowtie heads, but will not fit 1987 and later cast iron heads. Will not fit under stock Corvette hood. Available with standard finish or polished.

This does not sound like the correct "Vortec" intake The 7116 is the correct version. What effects will it have if I keep using it? Could it already have messed up the engine from the 10-15 minutes it has been running?