Thread: Anyone running 487 Heads

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I am looking for components to go with my 487 heads (not 487x) and make around 300hp. I know these aren't as good as Vortechs or many other heads. Since this is my first build, I'm trying to keep my budget pretty reasonable. If all goes well, I'll spend more on the next build. Anyway, I'm looking for a combination of parts (Pistons, Cam, etc) to get near the 300 hp area. I don't want to get too radical as I am trying to maintain some driveability.
So, what components did you match to your 487 heads and about how many horses?

Thanks
Willy

A key question here is what is your budget??. Can I suggest you keep a open mind on what to do.Guys here are very good to help you save money in the long run.

Tell you what.This is a link that is somewhat dated,but does give you ideas.Yeah 108 engine combos.

Ryan's Small Block Chevy Stroker Engine Combo Page

Thanks Gary

I rebuilt a set of them . 1971-72 350 Heads 74cc chambers . I installed all new S/S valves and Z/28 Springs with Performance Retainers and Locks . With .015" shim Head Gaskets and Flat Top Pistons you should be right about 9.1 C/R . 300 H.P not a Problem I would say by the way the Ports Looked they are about the Best 74-76cc Smog Heads and not a thin casting . With a Good Dual Plane intake 450"-460" Lift 216-218 at .050 dur 110 L/C Camshaft and a Set of Headers it will be near 350 H.P and run on Low octane Fuel every day trouble free .

Thanks Tango. That sounds great and easily do-able on a small budget.

Tango,
Did you go with the S/S valves and z28 springs because you needed them for the lift or did you just wanted to replace what you had? Basically, I'm wondering if I can use my stock valves and springs with the 460 cam. I don't know what the max lift is for 487 stock heads.

Willy

These heads were Low Mile castings but they got wet at one time and most of the valves rusted badly . That is why I went with the New Valves . The Factory Springs Looked to be re-useable but at $30.00 dollars for the Z/28 Springs it was a great up grade . Good stock springs set up right are said to work with up to 450" Lift without problems . Max Lift Clearance I would say 500" but any thing over 480" I would check them . But no these early heads do not have the clearance problems Like the stock Vortec Heads do . If your heads are in really good shape I would run them with one of the many 454" Lift Camshaft Brands out there .

I'm building a similar combo. "010" two bolt block, .030 over-bore, flat tops, etc...

The 487 heads are actually pretty decent heads with lots of meat to work with. They can be ported pretty easily for nice results. I'm having mine decked .025" which should drop chamber volume to about 71-72cc. I'm also doing a three angle valve job. As for porting, I don't have a flow bench so I don't go crazy, I clean up the short side radius, knock down any casting imperfections, smooth any noticable bumps and do a little pocket work. I think I have maybe 4-5 hours in both heads.

I'm going with the HD "Z/28" style springs for additional clearance for more lift and a bit more spring pressure.

I'm also going with a dual pattern cam, .465" intake/.488" exhaust. Basically the most cam usable with "stock" springs and no spring seat machining.

With the port work, flat tops and cam, I'm hoping for/expecting a reasonable 350hp. My limited budget won't allow for dyno time, and the final number isn't really all that important, but it should be a nice sounding, good running lump.