[AMC-List] 360 Heads on a 304

["Bruce Hevner" <scramblr@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

I have done this several times in the past.  But it was done because of a
specific restriction of engine displacement for the class. For example, you
can run any cast iron head but engine size limited to 305 ci.
Putting the bigger heads on the 304 KILLS the bottom end (AND fuel mileage)
while only increasing performance above about 3500+ RPM. Since most street
engines spend a majority of their time below 3500 RPM it's NOT a swap I
would recommend for most 304's, ESPECIALLY if they are automatic cars. If
it's a 4 speed car with a cam swap it WILL help power,, but then why not
just slide a 360 in it which will have more TORQUE which is what REALLY gets
you moving, NOT horsepower.
 I had a Javelin with a 343 automatic, pretty much stock. A friend had an
AMX with a 290 4-speed. We swapped a set of 343 heads on it. Had to notch
the block & pistons in the car!!. When we raced he was able to keep up with
me pretty good ONCE we got moving. I was always able to get out ahead of him
several car lengths on the start due to more torque of the 343 and then he
was not able to catch me.
If you HAVE to keep the 304 I would recommend getting a machine shop
familiar with hi performance head work to swap in a SLIGHTLY larger set of
valves and do a radius seat valve job. I think there are some chevy valves
that would work with a change of guide diameter from 3/8 to 11/32. Sorry I
can't remember specific sizes, chevy intake valves come from 1.720 to 1.940.
I think a 1.840 MIGHT work without cutting the block.
Remember is STREET performance TORQUE is king,, bigger engine size is better
and BIGGEST is BEST!!!!
That's my opinion and I'm stickkeen to it!
Bruce Hevner


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