The internal combustion engine is the powerhouse of most modern vehicles. It is the power source for cars, trucks, SUVs, and other motor vehicles. The power of an engine is determined mainly by its cylinder heads. A well-designed cylinder head can make a significant difference in the power output of an engine.
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Therefore, selecting the best LS cylinder heads for your vehicle is essential. This guide will provide an overview of the best LS cylinder heads and the benefits they can offer.
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What Are LS Cylinder Heads?
LS (or "long stroke") cylinder heads are designed to maximize the power output of an engine. They are designed to provide better airflow and combustion, allowing the engine to operate more efficiently and produce more power. LS cylinder heads are typically aluminum, but some are cast iron. The aluminum heads are generally lighter and more efficient than the cast iron heads. "stock cylinder heads" "cylinder head intended"
Benefits of LS Cylinder Heads
The main benefit of LS cylinder heads is increased power output. These heads provide better airflow and combustion, allowing the engine to produce more power.
Furthermore, LS heads are designed to provide better fuel efficiency, reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. Additionally, these heads are designed to offer better heat management, which helps keep the engine running cooler.
Types of LS Cylinder Heads
There are several different types of LS cylinder heads available. The most common types are cast iron, aluminum, and billet aluminum. Cast iron LS heads are usually the heaviest and least efficient but are more durable.
Aluminum LS heads are lighter and more efficient than cast iron but more prone to wear and tear. Billet aluminum LS heads are the most expensive, but they are also the lightest and most efficient.
Why LS Cylinder Heads Are So Popular
Aluminum LS heads are trendy for several reasons. First, they are lightweight, offering substantial weight savings over cast-iron heads. This not only improves performance but also improves fuel efficiency. Second, aluminum heads offer improved cooling compared to cast iron, as aluminum is a better conductor of heat.
This helps to reduce engine temperatures, reducing stress on the engine. Third, aluminum heads are much more durable and resistant to corrosion and rust, allowing the engine to last longer and perform better. Finally, aluminum LS heads offer better flow characteristics than cast-iron heads, which improves the engine's power output. These reasons combine to make aluminum LS heads popular for many performance and racing applications.
823 Heads
The 823-cylinder heads are cathedral port heads designed for LS engines. They feature a large combustion chamber volume and an aggressive valve springs package for higher performance. The 823 heads are perfect for those looking for a great combination of performance and efficiency. They can achieve a compression ratio of up to 11.2:1 and provide excellent airflow through their cathedral intake ports.
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799 Heads
The 799 cylinder heads are stock LS engine heads perfect for those looking for a good balance between performance and cost. These heads feature rectangular intake ports and have a more modest valve spring package than the 823 heads. The 799 heads are also great for those looking to increase the total valve lift on their LS engine.
706 heads
The 706 heads are great for optimizing their LS engine for performance. The 706 heads feature high-flowing cathedral intake ports intended for higher-performance applications. They have a larger valve spring package supporting higher lift camshafts.
The 706 heads also feature a more aggressive combustion chamber volume, which helps to increase the engine's compression ratio.
317 heads
The 317 heads are the most popular cylinder heads for stock LS engines. They feature a smaller combustion chamber volume, rectangular intake ports, and a more modest valve spring package.
The 317 heads are perfect for those looking to increase the performance of their LS engine without breaking the bank. The 317 heads are great for upgrading their stock LS engine.
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Factors to Consider When Choosing an LS Cylinder Head
Several factors must be considered when finding suitable LS cylinder heads for your engine. Whether you are looking for stock cylinder heads or aftermarket heads, your decision will significantly impact your engine's performance and reliability. Here are some of the most important factors to consider when choosing LS cylinder heads.
First, you need to consider the intended use of your engine. If you are looking for a street/strip engine, you may want to consider a more aggressive set of cylinder heads. On the other hand, if you are looking for a milder engine, you may want to go with a set of stock cylinder heads. The type of cylinder head you choose will significantly impact your engine's performance and power.
Next, you need to consider the flow characteristics of the cylinder heads. The flow rate of the heads will determine how much air and fuel the engine can intake and expel. LS cylinder heads are available in a wide range of flow rates, so choosing the right ones for your machine is essential. Higher flow rates will allow your engine to make more power but will likely require more maintenance.
Finally, it would be best to consider the cylinder heads' cost. LS cylinder heads can range from reasonably inexpensive to extremely expensive. Finding a set of cylinder heads that fits your budget while still providing the performance you need is vital.
In conclusion, several important factors should be considered when choosing LS cylinder heads. It is important to consider the cylinder heads' intended use, flow characteristics, and cost. By considering these factors, you can ensure that you find the right cylinder heads for your engine.
How to Install an LS Cylinder Head
Installing an LS cylinder head is a relatively simple process. First, you must remove the old head and gasket. Once the old head is removed, you can install the new head and gasket. Ensuring the gasket is installed correctly, and all bolts tightened to the proper torque is essential. Finally, you must install the spark plugs and other components.
Common Issues with LS Cylinder Heads
Several common issues can arise with LS cylinder heads. One common issue is that the head may be improperly installed, leading to leaks or poor performance. Another problem is that the head may be too tight, leading to compression loss. Finally, the head may be too loose, leading to excessive vibration or noise.
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The Best LS Cylinder Heads - Conclusion
Choosing the best LS cylnder heads for your vehicle can be difficult. Cast iron heads are generally more durable but less efficient, while aluminum and billet aluminum heads are lighter and more efficient. When selecting a head, you must consider the engine type, the power output you want to achieve, your budget, and the installation process.
Additionally, you should be aware of the common issues that can arise with LS heads and take the necessary steps to prevent them. With the right selection and installation, you can maximize the power output of your engine and enjoy improved performance.