87 C10 SWB ZZ502 Heads/Header Fit! HELP!

[jamesadamseod]

Hello all!

I have an 87 C10 SWB. I am replacing the 454 with a ZZ502. 454 has a good knock in it now and is 2 bolt peanut port motor, not gonna build it. Anyway, I am either getting the ZZ502 long block or the short block and some Edelbrock Victor Jr. heads. Maybe different heads, I don't know.

The heads have a .5 inch raised exhaust port. Will this be a problem with 2in Chevelle headers? What about the 2in truck headers? I just don't want them hanging so low like all the truck headers do. I don't want shorty's or mid length headers, but I know those would work.

I'll be doing the whole drivetrain. Engine, transmission, rear end, and adding a FiTech. Might take it to the track, but its primarily a fun street truck. It will also be getting a new cam right out the gate, ZZ572/620 cam, and matching springs/lifters.

Thanks

 

[jamesadamseod]

I guess what I'm asking is;

1. Should I go with the ZZ502 long block or get the short block and the better heads, Victor Jr 24°?

2. Will full length headers fit with a .534" raised exhaust port?

Thanks

 

[da_raabi]

If it were me? I'd run the complete 502. This way the whole motor has a warranty on it, it will be a "proven" combination and you can literally just drop it in place. If you are "thinking" about taking it to the track... dont spend the big bucks on race parts. You may never actually use them. That 502 will put you back in your seat plenty, especially compared to a tired, knocking, old 454 and you can always upgrade it later if you want more vroom vroom.

Keep in mind the 502 is a tall deck, so its going to sit pretty high. I know we have plenty of headroom in these trucks but its still something to think about.

Just my 2 cents.

 

[74 Shortbed]

Tall deck is .500 taller, full length headers may be an issue..

 

[jamesadamseod]

The 502 is based on a new GM gen 6 9.8" standard deck block. The 572 is 10.2" tall deck. I think I found my answer though, looking through the Chevelles.com forum. Looks like the headers should be fine with a .5" raised port. We have a little more room than they do. I was mainly concerned with starter and oil filter clearance, but that seems like a non issue. Not concerned with the warranty either. I wouldn't go through the hassle and just fix it myself anyway.

Now the decision lies with Hooker 2455-2 or Flowmaster 814114 headers. Both are 70 Chevelle stainless headers with 2in primaries. I know the Hookers fit our trucks but the Flowmasters are way nicer.

 

[yevgenievich]

I had the hooker 2" primaries on a first gen camaro with a big block that fit very well. No experience with flowmaster headers.