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American Motors/AMC 360 Heads
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Question
QUESTION: I'm rebuilding a 360 I have in my 73 CJ5. Would the earlier closed chamber heads give it a boost in power?? I've heard it should raise the compression about 1.0, Thanks for any help.
ANSWER: When you say earlier, are you are talking about pre 1970 heads? If so, no. The gains you might get in compression will not out weigh the superior flow characteristics of the 1970 and late heads.
There were some post 70 heads, not many, that would improve compression and still have the good air flow. If you can find them with the 360/401 valves, go for it.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: The numbers on the head are 3196291C from a 70 or 71 I think.
You, my man, have a great head, actually two of them. Very rare. Small chambers (50.6 cc) and large valves (2.025"/1.625") They were found on 1970 & early 1971 360/401 engines.
Have a quality 3 angle valve job performed, make sure they're not cracked and you should have no problem getting more HP from your 360.
Good luck.
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Kevin Pilotte
Expertise
I can answer many technical questions relating to AMC vehicles prior to 1979. I also have experience with Rambler & Nash vehicles.
Experience
I am a former AMC technician, service writer and service manager. I have worked in AMC dealers in Illinois in the 70's. After college, I was a Field Service Rep for American Motors Sales Corporation, working out of the Chicago Zone office. I traveled to AMC dealers assisting in the diagnosis and repair of AMC vehicles. I was also the Area Training Manager for DeLorean Motor Company. I have 10+ years as an Automotive Instructor. I have modified and restored
numerous AMC vehicles. I have been working on AMC vehicles for over 30 years.
Organizations
I have been an ASE Certified Master Technician since 1975. This includes L1. I am also currently a Toyota Certified Master Diagnostic Technician.
Publications
I have articles in "American Motoring", the official publication of the American Motors Owners Association. They are the largest AMC club in the world.
Education/Credentials
I have a certificate I printed out from a website.
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