Dropped my 302 off at the machine shop the other day for hot tank, magnaflux, and have the cylinders bored out. Figured I would ask about heads. He said I would be better off with my budget of around 3000 to just rebuild my stock heads (68 Cleveland block) rather that go with aftermarket or even gt40s. This is contrary to what I have read about heads for these 302s. What do you guys think? I'm leaning toward at least swapping for the gt40s
as they are a lot better than what I have according to what I have read. This is my first build so any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

What kind of 302 block do you have ,I'm a little confused about your post.

 

Depends on how you're going to use the engine. Stock heads, even older ones, don't breathe well. But if you never go over 3,500-4,000 rpm you won't notice much difference from better heads. If you're planning to spin it you'll want something better.

Older heads may need more work will cost more to rebuild if they need new exhaust seats, studs, etc. With some porting they can support pretty decent HP, though.

 

The block number is c80e-6015a

 

It's gonna be used as kind of a multipurpose truck. Something I can drive everyday but still take to the track and have a little fun. Hopefully that answers your question about how it will be used

 

What I. Confused about is you say 302 then Cleveland block,is this just a standard 302 or a 302 boss?

 

Standard as far as I know... that is from what I have found from the block casting number posted above

 

Are you going to be able to use everything but the pistons since you are having it bored.and how much is he charging you for labor,and are you buying the rebuild kit?

 

What it boils down to is,is how much for heads are you going to have left? Cause you can go to and get a nice set of trick flow aluminum heads for around $1100

 

Right now they are just going to hot tank everything and magnaflux the block and heads then if everything checks out the block will get machined. Supposed to sit down next week and go over cost and what direction we are gonna go with it as far as the top end. Right now for the hot tank and magnaflux 100$... If their labor on the rebuild is reasonable I'll have them do it if not I will. I'll know more next week. They are really busy right now as racing season is starting and they do a lot of motors for the guys here in stockton but it should still get done faster than it would if I do it myself with my schedule being what it is

 

Get GT40s.

 

Factory 302 Windsor heads are not very good. If the budget allows, I'd go for the TrickFlow for sure.