Need a pair of 409 heads
 

I found a 409 motor for my 1964 Impala SS and am trying to upgrade my heads. The original 409 is long gone and I am trying to put a W motor back in. I purchased a dual quad manifold and carbs and had the carbs completely restored by Eric @ Vintage Muscle Car Parts. They are beautiful and waiting to go on the motor. The trouble is the heads are low compression and the ports don't match the high compression intake. The 1964 part number is 3852583 but it seems they are so scarce I am willing to entertain a set of 3814690 62-63 heads if necessary. Anyone have a spare set they will part with? Thank you

Re: Need a pair of 409 heads
 

Here is a set of 583's for sale over at the 348/409 site

583 heads for sale

Re: Need a pair of 409 heads
 

I know the seller and he's a very honest guy, but compare the space between the valves on both heads. One has been machined a lot more than the other. I also wouldn't buy a set unless they came with a clean mag report.

Whether you buy 690s or 583s depends on what cam you plan to use. Don't try and use the Z-11 cam with 690s. The 583s take taller springs and you can't machine 690s for them without hitting water. (or too close to water).

Verne [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/flag.gif[/img]

Re: Need a pair of 409 heads
 

Verne,

Thanks for the info. I was skeptical of only one being machined and all the pitting as well I will look a little more. Any thoughts on new aluminum heads since the price is about the same? I am not sure what cam I will use yet, may ask for advice on that once I have everything in place for the machine work.

Jeff

Re: Need a pair of 409 heads
 

If you're not trying to create an original look, the Edelbrock heads have a good reputation. You'd have to talk to their tech guy about springs, rockers, push rods and cam matching.

Verne

Re: Need a pair of 409 heads
 

Try Pete Suriano. Fastest 409 guy in the Country. 610-326-8322. Verne also knows him.

Re: Need a pair of 409 heads
 

Thanks, I'll give him a call

Jeff