I am ready to purchase a new set of heads for my BBC 502. My old heads are cracked (see copy of previous thread below). I see the Pro Comp heads advertised online for about $700. Also see a set of new Dart 345 pro1 aluminum heads, coated for marine use, for $1,700. I am familiar with Dart, not Pro Comp. Already did a search and see the Pro Comps are a Chinese splash. Any opinions. What does it take to make the Pro Comps ready for Marine use?
PS I grew up in Detroit, so willing to pay more for "Made in USA," but geez, $1k is a pretty big spread.
My previous note.
BBC heads, aluminum vs iron?
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I have 2 cracked heads due to overheat (long story). Now in the market for replacement. Gen VI 502 block (casting 10237300) and the bad heads are Gen V cast iron (casting 14097088).
What are the pros and cons of aluminum vs iron on the heads? I have the roller cam with 580 lift, 240 duration, Vic Jr. air gap, Holley 850, EMI Thunder, MSD, Berk 12JG w/ plate, A/B mag/bronze, shoe, diverter spinning about 5,100 rpms in tight pump.
In my 20.5' Caribbean last saw 72.3 on GPS before mishap. The old heads have roller rockers/springs etc. matched to the cam. Looking to swap hardware to new heads.
I've searched and looks like some cheap Chinese stuff on market (Pro Comp?) for less than $1k. GM is quoting $1,500 for bare iron direct replacement.
Which way to go in my pedestrian lake boat, GM iron, Dart, off-brand aluminum? If I have to go to the hip, might as well add some H.P. Any opinions?