Best Cylinder Heads

10 min readOct 6, 2024

Welcome to our comprehensive roundup of the best cylinder heads on the market today! In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of automotive engineering, featuring top-tier products that have garnered attention from industry experts and enthusiasts alike. We’ll cover all the essential information you need to make an informed decision, so sit back, relax, and let’s explore the latest and greatest in cylinder heads together!

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Reviews

AFR Enforcer Cylinder Head: High-Performance 195cc Option

Experience top-performance at unbeatable prices with the AFR 1001 Enforcer 195cc fully assembled Cylinder Head Small B. Designed to meet the demands of 350–400ci engines operating below 6000 rpm, this aluminum wonder boasts a 195cc intake port volume and a straight plug, along with a 64cc combustion chamber that lets out 23 degrees of valve angle power. With a perimeter bolt valve cover, precision-crafted construction, and impressive reviews from satisfied customers, this is a must-have for any budget-conscious engine enthusiast.

Strengthen Performance with 195cc Enforcer Cylinder Head

Unleash the power with AFR’s Enforcer series of As-Cast cylinder heads. Crafted with budget-friendly components, these affordable offerings bring high-quality performance to your muscle car or street rod. Enjoy features like ARP rockers, PAC Racing Springs, Viton valve seals, hardened spring cups, and so much more, all assembled for convenient use.

Aluminum Cylinder Head for Small Block Ford with Hydraulic Flat Tappet Cam

Experience top-notch performance with JEGS Small Block Ford Aluminum Cylinder Head. Designed for use with hydraulic flat tappet cams, this cylinder head boasts 185 cc intake ports and 70 cc exhaust ports, accompanied by a 64 cc combustion chamber. Its high-quality construction features hardened ductile iron valve seats, machined to perfection. Equipped with rocker studs and featuring a 20-degree valve angle, this cylinder head is a must-have for enthusiasts seeking improved performance.

Summit Racing Cast Iron Cylinder Heads for Chevy Small Block Vehicles

Say goodbye to the hassle of finding decent GM cylinder heads, because Summit Racing has you covered. With their SUM-152123 cast iron cylinder heads, you can enjoy great performance without the high cost of rebuilding an old set of double hump castings. These heads are perfect for Chevy small block engines and fit various applications like the CHEVROLET 6.6L/400, CHEVROLET 5.7L/350, CHEVROLET 5.4L/327, and CHEVROLET 5.0L/302. And with a 5.0-star rating and positive reviews, you know you’re making the right choice.

High-Performance IAG 550 Cylinder Head Package with GSC Upgrades

Upgrade your engine’s performance with the IAG 550 Street Cylinder Head Package, perfect for vehicles like WRX, STI, LGT, and FXT. With a power output of up to 550 BHP, these heads ensure dependable performance and longevity. The package includes a range of upgraded components and is crafted from brand-new components, making it the ideal choice for replacing stock OEM heads.

Performance Billet Cylinder Head Kit for GX200 Clone Engines

The MoFlow1 Billet Cylinder Head Kit 18cc offers a performance upgrade for small block GX200 Clone Engines, with optimal flow and velocity. Featuring a 32mm intake and 25mm exhaust, it’s perfect for gas builds and offers smooth operation. Made in the USA, it comes with valves, seats, and guides installed, ready to use right out of the box.

Speedmaster PCE281.2146 Aluminum Complete Cylinder Heads for Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth, Small Block Engines

The Speedmaster PCE281.2146 as-cast cylinder heads promise enhanced power throughout the entire RPM range, perfect for entry-level street/strip applications. Designed for popular V8 engines, these heads feature bronze valve guides, CNC-finished faces and bolt holes for exceptional accuracy, and T6 heat-treated gravity die-cast construction. These heads also come with OEM accessory bolt patterns and an ample amount of material for upgrading to larger horsepower settings. The Speedmaster PCE281.2146 is a top-notch choice for your engine, thanks to its impeccable performance and durability.

Speedmaster PCE281.2152 Premium Aluminum Cylinder Heads

Speedmaster PCE281.2152 cylinder heads provide enhanced power and responsiveness, catering to entry-level street and strip applications. Boasting features like bronze valve guides, CNC-finished faces, and T6 heat-treated construction, these as-cast aluminum cylinder heads are built for reliability and performance. With custom fitment for various V8 engines, Speedmaster PCE281.2152 cylinder heads ensure an efficient upgrade for your Oldsmobile.

Small Block Chevy Cylinder Heads with 205CC Intake Runner & 64CC Combustion Chamber

Discover Assault Racing’s top-tier small block Chevy cylinder heads, featuring a 205CC intake runner and a 64CC combustion chamber. Designed for optimal performance, these 2.02/1.6 valves are perfect for your project and come with an angle plug and aluminum construction. Get ready to assemble with this unbeatable set, but don’t forget the. 100 longer valves required.

SBC 350 Vortec Cylinder Heads — Chevy Small Block Performance Upgrade

Prepare for a powerful boost with these SBC 350, 305 Chevy Small Block Vortec cylinder heads. Crafted with superior iron alloy, they offer wide-open intake runners, efficient combustion chambers, and a high-performance valve job. Ready to run right out of the box, these heads deliver all the airflow you need for increased performance.

Summit Racing Summit Racing Summit Racing Precision Aluminum Cylinder LS Heads Chevy

Take a leap into high-performance territory with Chevy LS Precision Cast Aluminum Cylinder Heads. The 210cc Cathedral port Intake Runner, 64cc Chamber, and 2.02 Intake Valve 1.6 Exhaust Valve are all included, leading to extraordinary power and efficiency. American craftsmen ensure high-quality construction with components like PAC Racing springs, ARP fasteners, and more. Experience the premium performance you’ve been dreaming of with Summit Racing’s LS Precision Cast Aluminum Cylinder Heads.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to purchasing cylinder heads for your vehicle, there are quite a few essential features, considerations, and general advice that you should be mindful of. This guide will help you understand what to look for and what to prioritize when making your purchase.

Important Features to Look for in a Cylinder Head

One of the first things you should consider when purchasing a cylinder head is its material. Cylinder heads are typically made from cast iron, aluminum, or a combination of the two. Aluminum cylinder heads generally provide better heat conductivity and can be lighter. However, they can be more expensive and may require specific cooling systems. On the other hand, cast iron cylinder heads tend to be more durable but can be heavier and have lower heat conductivity.

Casting Quality

The quality of the casting is another important factor to consider. Look for cylinder heads that have smooth finishes and free of surface defects. The material should be evenly distributed and free of air pockets or porosity. Poor casting quality can lead to issues with the head gasket or even cylinder wall damage, so it’s essential to choose a high-quality casting.

Engine Compatibility

Ensure that the cylinder head you choose is compatible with your engine. This can include factors like the cylinder bore size, deck height, and valve locations. Incorrect engine compatibility can lead to clearance issues and, ultimately, poor engine performance. Always double-check the specifications or consult with a knowledgeable professional before making a purchase.

Aftermarket or OEM

Lastly, consider whether to buy an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or an aftermarket cylinder head. OEM cylinder heads are designed and manufactured by the original vehicle manufacturer and are designed to be a direct replacement for the original part. Aftermarket cylinder heads, on the other hand, are produced by third-party companies and may offer additional features or benefits. Consider factors such as quality, price, and performance before making a decision.

FAQ

What are cylinder heads?

Cylinder heads are the uppermost part of a combustion engine that contains cylinders. They house the valve train, which controls the air-fuel mixture and exhaust gases flowing into and out of the engine cylinders. The cylinder head is a critical component as it helps to improve performance, efficiency, and durability of the engine.

Cylinder heads come in various designs, materials, and configurations, depending on the specific application of the engine. Common materials for cylinder heads include aluminum, cast iron, and ceramic-coated steel, while the design can vary from pushrod designs to overhead camshaft and direct-injection systems.

What are the benefits of using high-performance cylinder heads in engines?

High-performance cylinder heads offer a range of benefits for engines, including improved power output, increased efficiency, and better overall performance. These benefits are primarily achieved through increased airflow and better combustion, resulting in more power and torque. Additionally, high-performance cylinder heads can optimize valve timing and lift, helping to reduce emissions and exhaust heat while promoting a more efficient combustion process.

These cylinder heads are typically designed for high-revving applications, where power and responsiveness are critical factors, and can be found in racers, sports cars, and high-performance engines for boats or aircraft. Some high-end aftermarket cylinder heads may also offer improved durability and heat rejection capabilities, making them suitable for high-stress or high-power applications.

What materials are commonly used to make cylinder heads?

The most common materials used for cylinder heads include iron, steel, aluminum, and ceramic-coated steel. Cast iron cylinder heads have been in use for a long time due to their durability and resistance to heat. However, they can be quite heavy, which may reduce overall engine performance. Steel cylinder heads offer similar durability but are generally lighter than cast iron heads.

Aluminum cylinder heads are more lightweight and can be machined to a higher degree of precision than their iron counterparts. This allows for the production of high-performance cylinder heads with more advanced designs, such as overhead camshaft engines or direct-injection systems. Ceramic-coated steel cylinder heads are a relatively new innovation, offering the strength of steel with improved heat rejection and durability typically associated with ceramic materials.

How do cylinder head ports affect engine performance?

The ports of a cylinder head, or intake and exhaust valves, play a crucial role in engine performance. Efficient design of the ports can lead to increased airflow and better combustion, which ultimately results in improved performance and efficiency. The shape, size, and location of the ports can have a significant impact on air and fuel flow, as well as exhaust gas flow out of the cylinders.

High-performance cylinder heads often feature larger, more seamlessly integrated ports, which allow for improved airflow and better filling of the combustion chamber. This can lead to increased power output and torque, as well as more efficient combustion. Proper port design is essential for optimizing engine performance, and advanced port flow simulation software is often used to create cylinder head designs with improved performance characteristics.

What are some popular aftermarket upgrades for cylinder heads?

Aftermarket cylinder head upgrades can include performance-enhancing modifications, such as porting, machining, valve replacement, and valve spring upgrades. Porting involves the reworking of the intake and exhaust ports to improve airflow, which in turn improves engine performance. Machining refers to the precise shaping of the cylinder head’s surface and components to optimize airflow and combustion.

Valve replacement can focus on using stronger or lighter valves, which may improve performance and reliability. Valve spring upgrades aim to provide better valve control and reduce valve float, which can further enhance engine performance. Other common aftermarket upgrades include adjustable camshafts, adjustable distributors, and the addition of auxiliary equipment such as water pumps or alternators.

Can I install aftermarket cylinder heads on my OEM engine?

Whether you can install aftermarket cylinder heads on your OEM engine depends on various factors, such as the compatibility of the cylinder heads with your existing engine components, the level of tuning required, and any modifications to the engine management system or fuel delivery system. Installing aftermarket cylinder heads typically involves modifying the engine’s structure and/or electrical systems, so it is essential to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or seek professional advice before proceeding.

If the aftermarket cylinder heads are designed for your specific engine make and model, and the installation instructions are properly followed, it is generally possible to install them on your OEM engine. However, it is always recommended to have a professional mechanic or technician perform the installation process, especially if you are not experienced in engine modifications. They can ensure a proper fit, performance tuning, and that the engine functions safely and optimally with the new cylinder heads.