I was rebuilding my 71 429 and during the magnifluxing, I learned that one of my heads was cracked. I am thinking that I will buy new heads. The Casting # on the broken heads is DOVE-C but I am willing to stray from that casting if the performance on a different casting of heads are better. They arent the origonal heads anyway. This is where my question comes into play. Are the DOVE or the C80E castings better for performabnce applications? My understanding is that the earlier model 429s made more power, therefore are the C80E heads better? And will these heads fit the 71 block?

 

I realize that of the three castings, the DOVE-C (thunderjet) heads are probably the best, but I think it will be two expensive to buy another head of that casting. Of the other heads mentioned wich makes the most power? Wich will fit on a 71 model 429? Thanks.

 

What is the engine going into? You might want to think about getting a 460 crank and pistons... the longer stroke produces more torque! Unless your mudding the truck you want the higher revs from the 429.. I had a 1969 429 that I put into my 1984 Bronco.. (well almost still awaiting tranny)> I made it a 460.. I picked up a nodular Iron 460 crank for $100...

Uzi... Yamaha Sleds, Honda Bikes, and Ford Trucks....

 

I agree about making it a 460. As far as heads are concerned, I would try and find another set of DOVE-C. That's what I have on my 460 and it flat out flies. Your optimum year heads would be 70 heads which are DOVE-C. They were rated the highest. As far as whether the will bolt on, ANY 429 or 460 head will fit. They all bolt on the same. Good luck.

Rob
"Stuck with a m*par, Settle for a ch*vy, Happy with a Ford!!!!"