I know that the NA guys use headwork to increase the RPMs their engine can handle therefore, hopefully, making more power with the aid of a higher redline.

What should the FI people consider when evaluating headwork? I have a B18B, what should I replace to make the head capable of withstanding 40 psi? (I do not plan on running 40 psi, but GE sleeves are guarenteed to 40 psi so they might as well match. Will probalbly run 15 - 20.) Anyways, is the B18B head worth prepping for this or should I go LS/VTEC and swap on a B16A head?

Thanks for all your responses,

 

Headwork goes great with FI as long as it's done right. A properly ported and polished B18B head can flow better than a stock B16 and you won't need to get into the intricacies of LS/Vtec.
You won't *need* all of the valve train components that NA guys need to make power (of course it depends on your budget, but I would at least recommend getting the valve ends heat coated if you're gonna take them out at some point.

 

You don't "need" to port and polish the head, but it wouldn't hurt. Definately you will need to upgrade the moving parts though.

 

Hell Hell, all he would *need* is new valve springs and retainers... passibly not even aftermarket.... he's only gonna boost what ? 10-15 psi on an LS block ?
BTW, a PnP will allow you to run lower boost with magnificent results....

 

So, let me get this straight, the factoory head can handle insane amounts of boost? Enough to keep up with a Golden Eagle Block?

What *needs* to be replaced to run 20-30 psi on the B18B head? Not that I will go to 30, but that I could and wouldn't have to worry (too much). Thanks

P.S. X2BOARD you have about your longblock!

 

High boost will NOT kill your head. Your really dont -have- to replace anything or get any portwork done, but of course it will help power production tremendously at boost levels that high.

 

Great that is exactly the answer I was looking for. I think I will still go with a prtflow head and some SS valves. Should I upgrade the springs and retainers or just leave them the way they are? Will ITR springs and retainers work on my b18b head? Thanks

 

I would change the valves and springs and retainers if you planning to run over 30 psi on a otherwise stock head. There isnt a need to port the head to run that many lbs. However it would help a great deal if more air was allowed to flow through. Porting a head will increase HP. eg. A ported gsr head would take less boost to obtain the same power from a non ported head. Remember air is just as important as fuel for combustion.

 

Who makes the best springs, retainers, valves? Thanks

 

Just to add to , not many people know this, but believe it or not, a ported head can help reduce intake temps slightly* on an FI car.

*Reduced as compared to the same head, non ported.