AFR 165? 58cc or 61cc?

[91stangy]

I just bought a new cam and want to buy complimenting heads. But before I commit to buy I have a few questions. I have a stock 302 with an Edelbrock Performer Intake Manifold (upper and lower) all exhaust is done, and I have a 3.73 rear. How does everyone feel about the AFR 165s? Do I want a 58cc or 61cc head? I also have a new Comp cam with new springs, lifters, retainers, and a new timing chain (part# 2120 - also from Comp)... I would like to know if this will be a smart choice and if I'll see a dramatic power change. If anyone has similar set up or close to it, post your results please.

Cam specs:
Adv Dur: 280/280
Dur @ .050: 231/231
Valve lift: .512/.512
Lobe: 110.0

Another quick question with all the valve springs and retainers and what-not, should I buy bare heads or fully assembled heads? Is there going to be anything major I'll have to do or worry about if I buy bare heads? Thanks everyone! I really can't wait to do this.

 

[Modular2v]

just order a set of afr heads and slap them on.....your lift is fine for the springs that come standard on the 165s and you wont have to worry about p2v clearances with that cam, You will notice a HUGE power difference

 

[5spd GT]

Go with 58cc if staying N/A...61cc if going for a bit of boost.

 

[bullitstang1313]

Agree, 58cc for N/A, 61cc if you plan on adding a power adder.

 

[91stangy]

Well, I havn't ruled out a power adder down the line, just not for a little while (or at least until I become bored and need something new for my car, haha). So will it hurt me if I decide to go with the 61cc, or just stay with the 58cc because it's better for my set up now?

I'm also hearing that I'll need stronger push rods, I would assume this to be correct? Any suggestionsor part numbers?

 

[BlownFiveLiter]

If you have future plans for a power adder, or are unsure, go with the 61cc heads. It wouldn't hurt to run them without one, but you'll be slightly down on power NA than you would be with the 58cc heads. As for pushrods, you'll need a hardened set because of the guideplates when running stud mounted rockers. I'm not sure on an approximate length you'll need with the AFR heads, but I required 6.75" pushrods with my TFS heads. Pick up an adjustable pushrod so you can measure for yourself, so you're not just guessing on a length.

 

[5spd GT]

AFR heads tend to take a shorter rod compared to the TW's. I used a 6.25" pushrod for mine.

I would go with the 61cc's if "unsure" as stated. You wouldn't notice the difference...and it is only a couple horsepower.

Good Luck!

 

[Auto Reverse]

I have the AFR 165 58cc heads and love them...however, as others have said, if you plan on adding a power adder you're limited to nitrous or a very low boost turbo/supercharger application because of the compression you'll produce. I will say though that my setup loves the juice...the car go's like hell on a 75 HP dry shot and 125...look out!

I plan on getting 150 and 175 HP jets made to get deep into the 10's...but other than that, normal street driving is plenty fun N/A.

Either way, 58cc or 61cc, you'll be happy with the AFR's. Good luck!

 

[91stangy]

Alright you guys gave me a bit to think about, I appreciate all the help, so thank you. I'll be letting you all know how it turns out.