273 heads on 318, good or bad?

[Frank]

I've got a 318 short block and a set of 273 heads. They should bolt on, right? But what are the +/- of this combo? Any thoughts guys?

Or should I just shopfor a set of 318 heads?

Thanks for your help.

[RDABIKE]

I would shop for a set of 340 or 360 heads if you are planning other mods like a larger cam, intake ect. My old 273 heads had smaller vales, ports and combustion chambers.

[pishta]

The heads are identical. With the exception of bieng a tad smaller in the chamber (more compression for you) run them until you can find some "302" heads, THE ticket. Everything will fit unless the 273's are 64-65 1/2, then the intake bolts will be at an odd angle.

[tsteiner61]

There's nothing wrong with 273 heads, but performance wise, your gains are only minimal over stock (+1/2 pt compression 57cc vs. 63-66cc). The 302 IS by far the best head, in fact, in the Mopar engines book, they go so far as to recommend it over the 360 heads. I believe it came with 1.88/1.60 valves, too. If not, get them enlarged. I agree, if performance is the goal shop for the 302s.

[Frank]

Thanks, for the help guys.
I also forund a set of heads from an '86 dodge van that I pulled about 2 years ago. I forgot I had them I guess. They're in real good shape.
I haven't figured out what I'm going to do yet, but soon.

Thanks, again.