What head is better

[dwg86]

Using a cast iron head would it be better to use a 291c head with a dish piston or use a later 58cc head with a flat top piston?(flame propagation, quench area). I am planning on unshrouding the valves for better flow. Looking for around 10.5:1 static compression.

[jeepsr4ever]

Depends on your cam lift there dwg. The 58 cc head outflows the 291 everytime with smaller camshafts. I would use a set of 58cc's, backcut the valves, port match and do some simple unshrouding...makes a huge difference! 291's have a cruddy combustion chamber and are thin as heck in all the ports.

[dwg86]

Thanks for the info. 58 cc heads are easier to find also. I have a stock 401 short block with a standard crank. Off the shelf pistons are not a concern as I am looking into a stroker 401.