Reply to "AFD Alum heads"

I'm using the stock Cleveland block. I also gave the wrong intake manufacturer, I have a Weiand, not an Offy. I just finished reading about old Indy engines so my old, feeble mind has Offy on the brain. The spacers aren't the kind that go between the heads and manifold, these spacers go between the block and the manifold. The idea that you would just change the heads and go is where I screwed up. It was a happy ending though, Once you have everything torn apart you realize that you should change a lot more stuff in order to optimize the combination you're got. The heads really are the heart of the engine. Once you've spent the dough, the heads perform as advertised. Just remember you're dealing with a company across the world. My middle man was across the country.
I also ran into a surprise where it was discovered that I'd very recently bent a puhrod and leaned out # 5. The top of the piston was damaged and the con rod bearing was wasted. I had all the anguish of trying to figure out whether I needed to rebuild the whole short block or just buy some time. The decision was easy as I was out of money. Change the bearing and wait another year or 2 on the bottom end. That's another downside to having a loud, mid engine car. If the engine was in front of me, I think I would have heard and recognized the detonation. It's a happy ending though. The car screams and it's not a high strung beast. The heads worked as advertised. If you're looking for high RPM heads with a high winding motor and a very impressive HP number, get the Ford SVO heads. If you're looking for a car with a flat, broad torque curve, I'd recommend the AFD 2Vs. E mail me if you want specifics on my build. There is nothing exotic, just a well thought out combination of parts. Vince