This all started with the typical late 80s/early90s complaint: weird overheating problem. Engine ran great, burned no oil, no mixing in the oil; but the temp gauge was always 'off' and when we stopped, boiling coolant was bubbling the overflow tank. Yup, cracked head.
So...in the name of restoration of purpose, I began the earnest search for a set of heads. And being the sort I am, gee, wouldn't a set of Vortec heads be cool? Problem: TBI. TBI Vortec manifolds are available, for about the price of a good running 305. Well that's not gonna work.
Long story shortened, yesterday I scored the complete top end from a GM 350/330 Crate engine: cam, lifters, Vortec 062 heads, rockers, nifty chrome valve covers, AND performance manifold, with EGR. For just a little more than that E'broke TBI V manifold would have cost me. Need to use an adapter plate for the throttle body, but compromises must be made to get us back on the road.
Now I'm hoping for nice clean crosshatching when I pull the old heads off.