Auto Parts: cylinder heads, roller rockers, hooker headers

Question
Hi is dustin again with that 83 Bronco. Thanks for all the help with the glass packs and all. I took what you said and told my dad. He said that we will find a good enigne block and put some parts on it and switch it with mine. I was wonder about what i need to change when i would change the cylinder heads. I asking about pistons, pushrods, crank, etc. If i get headers for my enigne now would they work on edelbrock proformer rpm heads. I changed my mind about the glass packs. I going to go with flowmasters. What brand of headers do you think is the best. I was going to go with hooker or flowtech because they are a little cheaper than the others.

Answer
    If you're going to get another 351W and rebuild it, there are some excellent kits available from Summit and some of the other performance discounters that make it easy to get a good combination of parts.  Before you buy any parts, though, you need to get the block and crank that you are going to use into the machine shop.  After they've done any machine work, then you will know what size pistons to order, and the rings, etc.  You could use a crank kit from a local source, or get a higher-quality crank from Summit.  They even offer balanced rotating assemblies.  A balanced assembly is a good investment for a smooth running engine, and doesn't cost that much more.  If you get cylinder heads intended to work for the 351W from Edelbrock, you might want to go ahead and get their camshaft as well.  It's designed specifically to work with their heads.  I always liked Hooker headers, they fit real well.  Edelbrock sells the heads without rocker arms or pushrods; you want to get hardened pushrods and roller rockers.  You can get a good set of roller rockers today for a pretty good price.