Performer RPM Magnum heads?

kdeboy said
How well do they perform? I'm having a hard time finding LA blocks so it looks like I'm going with a Magnum block if I want to build a 360. Only other 2 choices seem to be the stock heads (crack prone) or the new cast-in-China EQ heads (poor flow compared to the original Australian EQ heads). I'd like to end up with an engine that can run mid to low 11's in a 3000 lb car with good suspension and torque converter. How much work would the Eddy's take to support that? Also, can anyone recommend a good head porter that doesn't have a year lead time?

The Magnum and LA versions of the Edelbrock RPM heads have similar ports, so power potential should be considered about equal in stock, out of the box configuration. However, the Magnum version has a smaller, modern style chamber. I often wonder why Edelbrock does not offer an LA version with the Magnum chamber. Also the Magnum version comes with 3/8” studs for use with Chevy small block roller rocker arms, so tons of rockers are available in all price categories.

Running a Magnum block does not mean you must run Magnum heads. You can run LA heads. If the Magnum is an early block and has LA oiling drilled, just install LA cam bearings and LA based camshaft to oil through the heads and rocker shaft. If the Magnum block is not drilled for LA oiling, you can still use LA heads with a rocker arm that allows pushrod oiling, like Comp Cams Ultra Pro Magnum and clones. This is how the Trick Flow 190 head works on the Magnum block with the correct Harland Sharp rocker srms.