Can you put aluminum heads on an iron block?

Can you put aluminum heads on an iron block?

If you are installing aluminum heads on a cast-iron block, the difference in expansion rates can cause sealing problems. Because of this, composite gaskets seem to work best. Just make sure whatever you use is applicable in an aluminum-head/iron-block situation.

Does aluminum heads increase HP?

As in zero difference anywhere in the power or detonation characteristics of the iron versus aluminum heads. Even the optimum total ignition timing was the same at 36 degrees. If anything, we could squint and guess and mumble that maybe aluminum heads were better by 2-3 hp.

Can aluminum heads be machined?

Aluminum expands almost twice as much as cast iron. A couple of decades ago (boy I feel old), all heads were machined the same way as they machined the cast iron engine blocks, with a slightly rough surface to grip the head gasket. Another great thing about aluminum cylinder heads is that they are repairable.

Are aluminum heads better than iron?

Aluminum has less weight than iron, and is easier to repair as well. Many people prefer aluminum heads for their performance, and consider them inherently better than iron heads. However, no matter which material – iron, aluminum or cobalt – is used to build heads, their performance will almost be the same.

Can you run higher compression with aluminum heads?

Remember that an aluminum head is more tolerant of high compression, and all other factors aside, a higher compression motor will make more power than a low compression motor, provided that its unique compression-related requirements (fuel octane, camshaft, etc.) are met.

Should I paint my aluminum cylinder heads?

No paint must be allowed to get on the spark plug threads, intake ports or intake mounting surface, any of the valve components or the bottom of the cylinder head. The heads must be perfectly clean and free of any oil or wax. Engine high temperature paint must be used to keep the paint from lifting due to heat.

Do aluminum heads warp easy?

Aluminum is less prone to cracking and warping than cast iron is. It cools down faster, throws heat faster, and is repairable, where cast iron has none of these features.

Are SBC 441 heads good?

The 441 has a reputation as a good-flowing head among the production 76cc chamber heads. In this particular case, it lost out to the 882 head, but overall it’s a decent head that responds well to pocket port work and larger 2.02/1.94 valves….

Can a cast iron block warp?

Cast iron engine blocks can be warped. Cast iron cylinder heads can be warped, but they must reach a much hotter temperature, and they must reach that temperature many more times before they can be warped.

Are aluminum heads worth it?

Yes they are worth it. Pretty much every aftermarket head is worth a good power increase over any stock head. I like the aluminum heads since they are easier to port, repairable, and give a nice weight reduction. They usually are only a few hundred more than the iron heads.

What is the advantage of aluminum heads?

Aluminum heads will dissipate heat faster. This allows for higher Compression Ratios with less risk of Detonation. The cooler head also delivers a cooler air/fuel mixture to the combustion chamber. Cooler air is denser and can make more power.

Do aluminum heads crack easily?

Aluminum is less prone to cracking and warping than cast iron is. It cools down faster, throws heat faster, and is repairable, where cast iron has none of these features. Cast iron on the other hand is very prone to cracking, especially in high heat conditions.