I was wondering if anybody knew the horsepower potential of the #5 small block heads without doing anything beyond just standard reconditioning? I found a set that looks like they are ready to bolt on. However, I have another motivated buyer competing with me so a fast response would be greatly appreciated. I'm at a crossroads on deciding whether to put a small block Olds or a big block Chevy and this will probably be the deciding factor as I have found it dang near impossible to find the #5 heads and here is a pair right there in front of me.
I am shooting for 450-550HP. Would it be realistic for the #5s?

Depends on your definition of "standard", and the engine combination they will be used on.


I am having a little trouble believing you are serious.


Depends on a lot of factors. Biggest is, how you are going to use it.

Norm

Woah!

I have a suggestion.

Find a 455.
Install Edelbrock or Batten heads
a "midrangey" camshaft
a 2500 r.p.m. Stall converter.
Decent Headers
Exhaust no bigger than 2.5 inches
a Demon Carb (I personally like the 750 D.P.)
and you had better have the Transmission to back it up.

and cash for tires.

because a 455 with good heads built for Midrange will murder Big Block Chevies on a routine Basis.

"500 horsepower out of a 455 olds os about as difficult as falling off a log"-Joe Mondello

His choice is between a 350 Olds, and a 454.

Norm