How to Choose a Cylinder Head Upgrade for Your Subaru
Engine work can feel intimidating, especially when you start thinking about the cost. Pulling the heads might seem like a massive project, but a huge performance gain doesn't have to drain your bank account. A smart cylinder head upgrade is one of the most effective ways to build a powerful and reliable engine. This guide demystifies the process. We'll show you how to find an affordable option, compare real value, and choose the right supporting parts to make a smart investment for your build.
Key Takeaways
- Build a Strong Foundation for Power: Upgrading your cylinder heads is one of the most effective ways to increase horsepower because it improves your engine's fundamental ability to breathe. This modification unlocks the full potential of other performance parts, especially on builds targeting 500+ horsepower.
- Plan for a Complete Engine System: A cylinder head upgrade isn't a standalone project. To ensure reliability and get the results you paid for, you must budget for essential supporting components like head studs and gaskets, a capable fuel system, and a professional ECU tune.
- Invest in a Balanced and Proven Setup: The best value comes from choosing a complete package that matches your specific performance goals, not just the cheapest or biggest parts. A well-engineered kit with quality components and a solid warranty provides reliable power without the guesswork of a custom build.
What is a Cylinder Head Upgrade?
If you're serious about getting more power from your Subaru, upgrading your cylinder heads is one of the most effective ways to do it. Think of the cylinder head as the command center for your engine's breathing. It sits on top of the engine block, forming the roof of the combustion chamber where all the magic happens. An upgrade isn't just about replacing a worn-out part; it's about re-engineering your engine's airflow to produce more horsepower and torque. By improving how air and fuel enter and exhaust gases exit, you can fundamentally change your car's performance characteristics.
What Do Cylinder Heads Actually Do?
Your engine's cylinder heads are critical to its performance. They house the valvetrain—the valves, springs, and camshafts—that controls the flow of air and fuel into the cylinders and the exhaust gases out. The design of the ports and the shape of the combustion chamber inside the head dictate how efficiently your engine breathes. A well-designed head allows for a greater volume of air-fuel mixture to enter the cylinder, leading to a stronger combustion event and, ultimately, more power. This is why a high-quality cylinder head is a cornerstone for any serious engine build and complements other performance parts perfectly.
Is It Time for a Cylinder Head Upgrade?
Sometimes, your Subaru will tell you when it's ready for an upgrade. Persistent overheating can be a major red flag, often pointing to a crack in the cylinder head that allows hot exhaust to leak into the cooling system. You might also notice poor fuel economy if the valves aren't sealing properly, which causes a loss of compression. Another common sign is excessive oil consumption, which can happen when valve guides or seals wear out. If you see white smoke coming from your exhaust, it could mean coolant is leaking into the combustion chamber through a damaged head. These issues are clear indicators that it's time to explore Subaru WRX upgrades.
How an Upgrade Impacts Your Car's Performance
A performance cylinder head upgrade directly translates to more power. By optimizing the ports for better airflow (a process known as porting), the engine can take in more air, which allows it to burn more fuel and generate more horsepower. Upgraded heads often feature larger valves and stronger valve springs, enabling the engine to operate safely at higher RPMs. This modification is essential for anyone looking to add a larger turbo or make other significant power-adding changes. The result is not just a higher peak power number; it's a more efficient and responsive engine that requires precise engine tuning services to realize its full potential.
Finding a Cylinder Head Upgrade That Fits Your Budget
Upgrading your Subaru doesn't have to drain your bank account. While high-performance parts can be a significant investment, plenty of cost-effective options deliver real results. The key is knowing where to look and how to evaluate what you’re getting for your money. It’s about finding the perfect intersection of price, quality, and the performance gains you’re aiming for. By focusing on value, you can build a more powerful and responsive engine without compromising on reliability. Let's explore how to find the right cylinder head upgrade that fits both your performance goals and your budget.
Top Brands for Affordable Performance
When you start shopping for cylinder heads, you'll notice a few names pop up frequently. Brands like IAG Performance have built a reputation for offering a wide range of engine components tailored to Subaru EJ engines. They provide various packages designed for different power goals, from street builds to full-on competition setups. Seeing what established brands offer is a great way to benchmark prices and features. This research helps you understand the market and what you should expect to pay for certain levels of machining, porting, and included valvetrain components.
Spotlight: Crawford Performance Solutions
We've engineered our own line of Subaru cylinder head packages to provide a clear, affordable path to more power. Our Rebel, Bandit, and Outlaw tiers are built in-house by experts who live and breathe Subaru performance. Each package is designed to meet specific performance targets, whether you're building a spirited daily driver or a dedicated track car. By creating tiered solutions, we take the guesswork out of the equation. You get a proven combination of components and expert craftsmanship that delivers reliable power without the custom-build price tag.
How to Compare Cylinder Head Packages
A lower price tag doesn't always mean a better deal. When comparing options, look past the final number and examine what’s included. Does the package come with new valves, springs, and retainers? Is CNC porting part of the service? Some packages might seem cheaper upfront but require you to purchase additional components separately. Create a simple checklist of features and compare packages from different brands side-by-side. This approach ensures you’re evaluating the total cost and getting a complete solution that matches your needs.
Getting the Best Performance for Your Buck
Ultimately, the best upgrade is one that aligns with your driving style and long-term goals. A daily driver doesn't need a full-race cylinder head package built for 1,000 horsepower. Being honest about your needs will prevent you from overspending on capabilities you'll never use. Instead, invest in quality performance parts that offer tangible improvements for your specific application. A well-balanced setup with carefully selected components will always outperform a build where money was spent in the wrong places.
What Technical Details Matter Most?
Upgrading your cylinder heads is more than just a simple swap; it's a significant step that affects your entire engine system. To get the results you want without creating new problems, you need to think about how the new heads will work with your existing setup. From ensuring your engine block is ready for the extra power to making sure your fuel system can keep up, every detail matters. Let's walk through the key technical points to help you plan a successful and reliable upgrade for your Subaru.
Will It Fit? Checking Engine Compatibility
First things first, you need to ensure the cylinder heads you choose are compatible with your specific Subaru engine, whether it's in a WRX, STI, or Crosstrek. Beyond just fitting correctly, the internal components must be able to handle your performance goals. The stock valve springs and valves, for example, can become a weak point if you plan to run more than 24 pounds of boost. Upgrading these components isn't just about making more power—it's a crucial safety measure to prevent valve float and potential engine damage. Matching the heads and their components to your engine's capabilities ensures you build a strong, reliable foundation for all your other performance parts.
Engine Bore Size and Valve Clearance
One of the most important technical details to consider is the relationship between your cylinder heads and the engine's bore size. The bore is the diameter of the cylinder, and it dictates how much space your valves have to open. If you install heads with oversized valves on an engine with a smaller bore, the valves can actually hit the cylinder wall, causing catastrophic damage. This is why you can't just pick the biggest components available; they have to work as a matched set. Ensuring the cylinder heads are designed for your specific engine block is non-negotiable. This is a critical step in planning your build and reinforces the importance of sourcing a complete, engineered package of performance parts.
Intake Port Design and Airflow
The design of the intake and exhaust ports is where the real power gains come from. Think of these ports as the lungs of your engine; their shape and size determine how efficiently the engine can breathe. A well-designed head uses precisely shaped ports to increase the volume and velocity of the air-fuel mixture entering the cylinder. This process, known as porting, leads to a more powerful combustion event and more horsepower. Many high-performance heads are CNC-ported, a machine-driven process that guarantees every port is identical and optimized for maximum flow. This level of precision is key to getting consistent, reliable power, and it’s something that requires professional engine tuning services to fully utilize.
Valvetrain Stability for High-RPM Performance
Your engine's valvetrain—the valves, springs, retainers, and keepers—is responsible for controlling the airflow with perfect timing. When you increase horsepower and RPM, the stock valvetrain can quickly become a liability. Weak valve springs can lead to "valve float," a dangerous condition where the valve doesn't close fast enough, which can cause it to collide with the piston. Upgraded heads almost always include stronger valve springs and lightweight retainers to maintain stability at high RPMs. This allows the engine to rev higher and safer, which is essential for making power with a larger turbo. For any serious build, especially for Subaru STI upgrades, a robust valvetrain isn't just an option; it's a necessity.
What Other Parts Will You Need?
Cylinder heads don't operate in a vacuum. To function correctly and reliably under pressure, they rely on a network of supporting components. When you increase airflow and combustion pressure with upgraded heads, you also need to reinforce the surrounding parts. This includes high-performance head gaskets that can maintain a perfect seal, stronger head studs to prevent the heads from lifting under high boost, and durable valves and retainers. We offer a range of Subaru WRX upgrades designed to work together, ensuring every part of your engine assembly is strong enough for high-performance applications. Investing in these components at the same time as your head upgrade saves you from future headaches.
Other Mods to Consider for Your Build
If you're aiming for a significant power increase—say, 500 horsepower or more—you'll need to consider other modifications. Upgraded camshafts are often recommended to maximize the airflow potential of your new heads. However, they can be expensive, so it's important to consider if your power goals truly require them. For a more budget-friendly improvement, if you're already having a valve job done, asking for a "pocket port" can be a cost-effective way to smooth out the airflow path. Proper engine tuning services are also non-negotiable to ensure your ECU can manage the changes and optimize performance safely.
Does Your Fuel System Need an Upgrade Too?
More air flowing through your upgraded heads requires more fuel to maintain the proper air-fuel ratio. Pushing for high boost levels, especially with E85 fuel, can quickly max out your stock or mid-level fuel system. For instance, running 26 psi of boost can overwhelm common injector and fuel pump setups. Before you finalize your upgrade, assess your fuel system. You may need larger fuel injectors and a higher-flow fuel pump to meet the new demands. Installing a hardwire kit for your fuel pump is also a smart move to ensure it receives consistent voltage and operates at its full potential, supporting your Subaru STI upgrades reliably.
How to Choose the Right Cylinder Head Upgrade
Selecting the right cylinder head upgrade for your Subaru is about matching components to your specific performance goals. Whether you're building a daily driver with a bit more punch or a dedicated track machine, the details matter. It’s not just about bolting on new parts; it’s about creating a balanced and reliable system. Making an informed choice means looking closely at the individual components, the quality of the materials, the design specifications, and the warranty that backs it all up. This approach ensures your investment not only delivers the power you want but also provides lasting reliability for your engine.
Matching Heads to Power Goals and Engine Type
There’s no single “best” cylinder head—only the best one for your specific build. The right choice depends entirely on your power goals and engine type. If you’re building a spirited daily driver and aiming for under 400 horsepower, you likely don’t need a full-race setup. A quality refresh with minor port work might be all you need. However, if your sights are set on 500 horsepower or more, improving your engine's ability to breathe becomes absolutely critical. This is where CNC-ported heads with larger valves make a huge difference, allowing your engine to process the massive volume of air required to support a larger turbo and make serious power. A well-engineered head upgrade unlocks the full potential of other Subaru STI upgrades, creating a balanced and powerful system that works together seamlessly.
Choosing the Right Valvetrain Components
The valvetrain—which includes your valves, springs, and retainers—is the heart of your cylinder head. When you start pushing for more power, especially with boost levels exceeding 24 psi, the stock components can quickly become a weak point. Upgrading to stronger valve springs and more durable valves is one of the most critical steps for engine safety and performance. These performance parts are designed to handle higher RPMs and increased cylinder pressures without failing. Think of it as essential insurance for your engine; it allows you to safely make more power while preventing catastrophic failure down the road.
Why Material Quality Matters for Durability
When it comes to engine internals, material quality is everything. The added stress from increased horsepower and torque demands components that are stronger and more resilient than stock. Investing in cylinder heads and valvetrain parts made from high-grade alloys ensures they can withstand the intense heat and pressure of a high-performance environment. This focus on durability is what separates a reliable build from one that’s constantly in the shop. For models like the Subaru WRX, choosing parts known for their strength and longevity means you can enjoy your car's new power with confidence.
How to Read Sizing and Design Specs
You might assume that "bigger is better" when upgrading engine parts, but that’s not always the case with cylinder heads. Expert engine builders often recommend sticking with standard-sized valves, even for builds aiming for well over 1,000 horsepower. Porting the heads for larger valves can remove too much material, creating hot spots that compromise the head's integrity and lead to heat management issues. The key is to focus on efficient design rather than sheer size. A well-engineered head optimizes airflow without sacrificing structural strength, proving that smart design is more effective than just going bigger. This is where professional engine tuning services become invaluable.
What Does the Warranty Actually Cover?
A solid warranty is more than just a piece of paper; it’s a manufacturer's vote of confidence in their own work. When you're investing significant money into your engine, you want to know that the company behind the parts stands by their quality. At Crawford Performance, we back our engine builds with a comprehensive 12-month/12,000-mile warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected. Always check the warranty details before making a purchase. It reflects the manufacturer's commitment to quality and provides a safety net as you push your Subaru to new performance heights.
Information to Prepare for an Expert Consultation
Walking into a consultation prepared is the best way to ensure you get exactly what you need for your build. Before you talk to an expert, take some time to define your performance goals. Are you aiming for a spirited daily driver or a dedicated track car? Next, list all your current modifications, from the turbo and fuel system to the exhaust. You'll also need your engine's specifics—the model (WRX, STI, Crosstrek) and any previous internal work. Having a target boost level, a clear budget, and a few questions ready will make the conversation incredibly productive. This groundwork helps an expert recommend the right parts and the most effective engine tuning services for your Subaru.
Installation and Tuning Your New Heads
Once you’ve selected the right cylinder heads, the next critical phase is installation and tuning. This isn't just a matter of bolting on new parts; it's a precise process that directly impacts your Subaru's performance, reliability, and engine longevity. A flawless installation ensures you get every bit of power you paid for, while a proper tune synchronizes the new hardware with your engine's computer. Think of it as the bridge between potential and actual performance. While some seasoned home mechanics might tackle this job, we generally recommend professional installation to protect your investment and ensure the job is done right the first time. Proper execution is key to unlocking the full potential of your performance parts and preventing costly mistakes that could sideline your vehicle. Getting this stage right means you can hit the track or trail with confidence, knowing your engine is built to handle the extra power safely and efficiently. It’s the difference between a successful upgrade and a frustrating, expensive problem. Below, we'll walk through the key steps and considerations for a successful installation and tune, so you know what to expect whether you're doing it yourself or working with a trusted shop.
What to Expect from a Pro Installation
The foundation of a successful cylinder head installation is preparation. Before the new heads even get near the engine, the block's deck surface must be perfectly clean and flat. This involves meticulously removing every trace of old gasket material, oil, and carbon buildup. A contaminated or uneven surface will compromise the head gasket's seal, leading to compression loss, fluid leaks, and potentially catastrophic engine failure down the road. Professionals use specialized tools and techniques to ensure the surface is pristine, creating the ideal foundation for a durable, high-compression seal that can withstand the demands of a modified engine. This step is tedious but absolutely essential for reliability.
DIY Install: Tools and Equipment You'll Need
Having the right tools is non-negotiable for a job this precise. At a minimum, you’ll need a high-quality, calibrated torque wrench, a comprehensive socket set, a gasket scraper, and engine assembly lubricant. The torque wrench is arguably the most critical tool in this lineup. Subaru head bolts require a specific, multi-stage torquing sequence to achieve the correct clamping force and bolt stretch. Using an uncalibrated or cheap torque wrench can lead to inaccurate readings, resulting in a failed gasket seal. Clean rags and solvents are also essential for the surface preparation we just talked about. Investing in the right equipment ensures every bolt is tightened to spec and every component fits perfectly.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Performance Tuning
Properly torquing the head bolts is a methodical process. It’s not about tightening them as hard as you can; it’s about applying even pressure in a specific pattern. A typical sequence involves tightening all bolts to an initial low torque setting, then to a higher one, followed by loosening them in reverse order before the final torque sequence. This ensures the gasket compresses evenly. Once the mechanical installation is complete, the job isn't finished. The final, crucial step is a custom ECU tune. Your new heads will significantly change the engine's airflow, and the engine's computer needs to be recalibrated to optimize fuel and ignition timing. Professional engine tuning services are essential to maximize power and ensure safe operation.
How to Avoid Common Installation Mistakes
Even with careful preparation, you can run into challenges. The most common issues are head misalignment and incorrect torque application. Misalignment can prevent the head from seating correctly on the block, while improper torquing can warp the heads or cause gasket failure. To avoid these problems, always double-check your work. Use the dowel pins on the engine block to guide the heads into the correct position. Follow the torque sequence and specifications from the factory service manual to the letter. If a bolt doesn't feel right as you're tightening it, stop and reassess. Rushing is the enemy of a good engine build, so take your time and be methodical.
How to Shop Smart for Your Upgrade
Upgrading your cylinder heads is a significant investment, but it doesn't have to break the bank. Shopping smart is about more than just finding the lowest price; it's about maximizing value and ensuring you get reliable, high-performance parts that fit your build goals. By being strategic about where and when you buy, you can secure top-tier components for your Subaru without overspending. From leveraging seasonal sales to understanding the value of bundled packages, a little planning goes a long way. Let's explore some of the best ways to get the most out of your budget.
Where to Find the Best Deals on Cylinder Heads
When you're ready to buy, stick to reputable retailers that specialize in Subaru performance. General auto parts stores often lack the specific knowledge and inventory for high-performance builds. Shops dedicated to the Subaru platform have the expertise to guide you and typically stock quality-tested components for EJ and FA engines. While exploring different vendors, you'll find that specialists offer a curated selection of performance parts designed for durability under stress. This focus ensures you’re not just buying a part, but also the peace of mind that comes with proven engineering and community trust.
Using Seasonal Sales to Your Advantage
Patience can be your best friend when shopping for major upgrades. Many performance parts retailers offer significant discounts during seasonal sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other holidays. Planning your purchase around these times can lead to substantial savings on cylinder heads and other components. A great way to stay in the loop is by subscribing to the newsletters of your favorite shops. This way, you'll be the first to know when a sale drops, allowing you to get the parts you need at a much lower price. Keep an eye out, as these deals can make a high-end upgrade much more accessible.
Don't Forget: Military and Special Discounts
If you are an active or retired member of the military or a first responder, always ask about special discounts. Many companies in the automotive performance industry are proud to offer programs that honor your service with reduced pricing. These discounts can apply to everything from individual parts to complete engine packages, providing a meaningful reduction in your total cost. Before you finalize a purchase, check the retailer’s website for a dedicated discount page or contact their customer service team directly. It’s a simple step that can unlock extra savings on the high-quality components your Subaru deserves.
Why Package Deals Can Save You Money
One of the smartest ways to shop for a cylinder head upgrade is to look for package deals. Buying a complete, pre-configured kit is often more cost-effective than sourcing each component individually. More importantly, it eliminates the guesswork. Our tiered Subaru cylinder head packages—the Rebel, Bandit, and Outlaw—are designed by our experts to ensure every part works together perfectly. These bundles include professionally built heads matched with the right valvetrain components, saving you time, money, and the headache of potential compatibility issues. This approach gives you a reliable, turnkey solution engineered for proven performance gains.
Caring for Your Upgraded Cylinder Heads
Once you’ve invested in upgrading your Subaru’s cylinder heads, the next step is to protect that investment. Proper long-term care is essential for ensuring your engine continues to deliver the power and reliability you expect. Just like any high-performance component, your upgraded heads require consistent attention to detail and a proactive maintenance approach. By staying on top of a few key areas, you can enjoy the benefits of your upgrade for years to come and keep your Subaru running at its peak.
Your New Maintenance Schedule
Think of your upgraded heads as a critical part of your engine's high-performance ecosystem. They need regular check-ups to stay in top shape. It’s a smart practice to have your cylinder heads inspected and refreshed during any major engine work or rebuild, especially if your car has seen a lot of miles. This proactive approach allows a technician to catch any potential wear or minor issues before they develop into more significant problems. A regular service schedule isn't just about fixing things; it's about maintaining the integrity and performance of your entire engine assembly.
How to Monitor Your Car's Performance
Your car will often tell you when something isn’t right—you just have to listen. If the valves in the cylinder head don't seal perfectly, the engine loses the compression it needs to burn fuel efficiently. You might notice this as a subtle loss of power, a rough idle, or a change in your exhaust note. Paying close attention to how your vehicle performs day-to-day is your first line of defense. If you suspect an issue, professional engine tuning services can help diagnose a loss in performance and ensure your engine is operating correctly, protecting your heads from unnecessary strain.
Tips for Keeping Engine Temps in Check
Heat is one of the biggest threats to cylinder heads. Overheating can cause the metal to warp or even crack, which can lead to serious engine damage as hot exhaust gases leak into the cooling system. Always keep a close eye on your engine’s temperature gauge, especially during spirited driving or on hot days. A reliable cooling system is non-negotiable for a modified Subaru. Make sure your radiator is clean, your coolant levels are correct, and your fans are working properly. Upgrading to higher-quality performance parts, including cooling components, can provide an extra layer of protection.
Preventive Care to Protect Your Investment
The foundation of long-term engine health is consistent, preventive maintenance. This is especially true for a modified engine. Following your vehicle's scheduled maintenance plan is the best thing you can do to prolong the life of your upgraded heads and the entire engine. Simple actions like performing regular oil changes with high-quality oil and changing your coolant on schedule make a massive difference. These routine tasks prevent sludge buildup, reduce friction, and maintain stable operating temperatures, giving your high-performance Subaru WRX upgrades the support they need to perform reliably.
What Performance Results Can You Expect?
Upgrading your Subaru’s cylinder heads is a significant investment, so it’s fair to ask what you get in return. This modification is about more than just a new part under the hood; it fundamentally changes how your engine breathes and performs. A proper cylinder head upgrade delivers a powerful combination of increased horsepower, better engine efficiency, and improved long-term durability. It’s a foundational change that allows other performance parts to reach their full potential, transforming your vehicle’s character on the street, track, or trail. By optimizing airflow, you’re setting the stage for a stronger, more responsive, and more reliable engine.
Expect More Power and Torque
The most immediate and exciting result of a cylinder head upgrade is a substantial increase in power and torque. By improving the engine's ability to draw in air and expel exhaust, you create the potential for more horsepower. This is especially true for ambitious builds; upgraded cams and ported heads are often considered essential for builds aiming for 500 horsepower or more. This modification allows your engine to process a much greater volume of air and fuel, which, when combined with proper engine tuning services, translates directly into higher output and a more aggressive throttle response across the entire RPM range.
Why Horsepower Gains Depend on Your Engine Build
A cylinder head upgrade is a powerful modification, but it doesn't create horsepower in isolation. The gains you see are directly tied to the capability of your entire engine system. Think of it this way: even the best-flowing heads can't move more air than your turbo can supply or your exhaust can expel. The true value comes from creating a balanced setup where all your performance parts work in harmony, providing reliable power without creating bottlenecks in the system.
To ensure reliability and get the results you're paying for, you must plan for the necessary supporting components. The increased airflow and cylinder pressure demand a capable fuel system, along with stronger head studs and gaskets to keep everything sealed tight. The final piece of the puzzle is a professional tune. Without proper ECU calibration from expert engine tuning services, your engine can't safely take advantage of the improved airflow, leaving power on the table and potentially risking damage.
Will Your Fuel Efficiency Improve?
Beyond raw power, a well-executed cylinder head upgrade makes your engine operate more efficiently. Think of it like an athlete improving their breathing—better airflow means the engine works more effectively without as much strain. This efficiency can allow you to make the same amount of power with less boost, reducing stress on internal components like pistons and rods. An engine that breathes better is a happier engine. This translates to smoother operation and can even contribute to a longer lifespan, giving you a performance machine that doesn't have to sacrifice reliability to be fun.
The Payoff: Better Long-Term Reliability
Investing in your cylinder heads is also a smart move for long-term reliability, especially on a high-mileage engine. During any engine rebuild, it's wise to have your heads checked and refreshed to catch potential issues before they become catastrophic failures. Small cracks can worsen over time, and if they reach the fuel or cooling systems, you could face major engine damage. Upgrading to a more robust set of heads during a build for your Subaru WRX or STI isn't just about performance; it's a proactive step that strengthens one of your engine's most critical areas, ensuring it can handle the demands you place on it for years to come.
Related Articles
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I upgrade my cylinder heads instead of just getting a bigger turbo? Think of your engine as a complete system. A bigger turbo forces more air in, but if your cylinder heads can't handle that increased airflow efficiently, you're leaving a lot of power on the table. Upgrading your heads is like opening up the engine's airways, allowing it to breathe better. This not only maximizes the potential of other mods like a turbo but also improves overall engine efficiency and reliability under stress.
Is a cylinder head upgrade really necessary for a daily driven Subaru? It really depends on your performance goals. If you're just looking for a small bump in power, other modifications might be more suitable. However, if you plan on making significant power, running higher boost, or want a more responsive and efficient engine for the long haul, a cylinder head upgrade is a foundational step. It builds a stronger, more capable engine that can safely handle the extra power you add later on.
What other parts do I absolutely need to buy along with new cylinder heads? Upgraded heads need a strong support system. At a minimum, you should plan on getting high-performance head gaskets and stronger head studs. These components are crucial for creating a durable seal that can withstand the increased pressure in a modified engine. Depending on your power goals, you may also need to look at your fuel system to ensure it can supply enough fuel to match the increased airflow.
Can I install new cylinder heads myself to save money? While it's technically possible for an experienced home mechanic with the right tools, this is one job where professional installation is highly recommended. The process requires extreme precision, especially when cleaning the engine block and torquing the head bolts in the correct sequence. A small mistake here can lead to major engine problems. Investing in a professional installation protects your new parts and ensures everything is done right.
With different packages available, how do I choose the right one for my car? The best way to choose is to be realistic about your goals and how you use your car. A full-race setup is overkill for a spirited daily driver. Consider your target horsepower and your budget. Our tiered packages, like the Rebel, Bandit, and Outlaw, are designed to take the guesswork out of it by providing proven combinations for different performance levels, ensuring you get a balanced setup that matches your needs.