Best Flowing SBF Heads – [ Top 8 Picks ]

Not so long ago, small block owners only had the option to choose between classic 351W and 302 ford cylinder heads. But now, if you’re looking for the head for Ford small block in the marketplace, you’ll find a plethora of options to decide.

These ford cylinder heads have potential features that can outperform even the best quality iron 5.0L cylinder heads. And surprisingly, these features will meet the needs of flowing small block fords.

Cylinder heads control airflow throughout the machine and ensure a balanced performance of vehicles. However, if we take a closer look at the cylinder head, we see that it consists of valves, injectors, and a few moving parts, which is more than any other segment of the engine.

Although generally overlooked, the cylinder head is indeed a crucial part of a motor. This is why you must give priority to buying the best flowing SBF heads. But another question that may strike many here is how you’ll know which is the best?

Of course! You would like to learn more about the product’s features, prices, and overall performance to make a productive choice. So to help you make a worthwhile buying decision, we’ve covered you with our top 8 best flowing SBF cylinder heads.

 

Best Flowing SBF Heads Review

We’ve selected many products through our in-depth testing process, and then these eight came out the best. So take one according to your preferences and judge.

We ensure that any of our chosen products won’t let you down. That’s because we’ve taken the best value products based on their functions, quality, and price. Let’s move to the detailed portion!

 

1. Speedmaster PCE281.2049 Ford SB

While it’s about getting the best heads for 351W, you won’t get any better than the Speedmaster PCE281.2049 Ford. This is one of the best additions to the small block ford engine. Besides, if you want something for long-term usage, you can rely on it without any second thought as its high-grade aluminum construction.

This flowing cylinder head features a valve guide that’s made from bronze. It makes sure that there is no temporary interruption or hitch of peel. You’re even getting a smaller cross-section that boosts incoming airspeed resulting in fast and smooth drivability.

Specialized Department

These cylinder heads come in an excellent design that lets you use them in the most popular engines, including Ford 289, 302, and 351W. On top of it, you can also use them in some older engine models.

What Sets This Apart

• 0.55 maximum valves lift
• 62 cc combustion chamber
• Valve cover housing is perimeter bolt style
• 10-degree lock style to fit perfectly

Benefits

• Effortless installation as it’s already assembled
• Offers most displacement applications
• Designed to provide 400-700 HP
• Budget-friendly option

Drawbacks

• No heat crossover

Our Experience with It

What we loved about Speedmaster PCE281.2049 is its broad extent of displacement applications. However, it’s not just affordable in price, but it also provides maximum HP to improve drivability.

Verdict

When it comes to getting a reliable replacement of cast iron heads, nothing can win against a lightweight and better-functioning aluminum head. And this is where the Speedmaster PCE281.2049 small block ford attains the identity of best flowing SBF heads.

 

2. Edelbrock 60229 Cylinder Head

Since its establishment in 1938, Edelbrock has been one of the recognized planners, manufacturers, and suppliers of automotive aftermarket replacement parts. And they create products using advanced materials in their high-class manufacturing facilities. The Edelbrock 60229 is an excellent addition to their cylinder head series.

With a 60cc quick-burning combustion chamber and 170cc improved flow intake port, these flowing 289 heads are sure to produce incredible horsepower. What’s more, it offers good driving power in the range of 1,500 to 6,500 RPM for high-level street applications. So this is worth it if you want a top standard street-use cylinder head.

Specialized Department

The Edelbrock 60229 ford flowing head is engineered to use for 289-351W small block ford functions. It delivers an improved torque throughout the engine system for optimum throttle response and top-quality performance.

What Sets This Apart

• Hardened steel valves guide plate
• Flat tappet camshafts style
• Valve angle is 20-degree
• Robust construction lasts an extended period

Benefits

• Suitable for pre-pollution controlled automobiles only
• Manufactured to meet the requirements of 289-351 Windsor
• High-performance intake and exhaust valves
• Maximum of 325-500 HP

Drawbacks

• Possibility of exposing toxic component lead

Our Experience with It

We found that its 170cc intake valve provides higher velocity at a low RPM to ensure your vehicle’s engine works well. You’ll also get better-optimizing torque power. It ensures your machine will get better airflow to alleviate the blockage issues.

Verdict

Whether you’re looking for a strong SBF cylinder head for street performances, racing cars, and even daily driving, Edelbrock 60229 is always ready to serve the required result no matter how tricky the situation is.

 

3. Edelbrock 60069 Performer Cylinder Head

If you’re a guy who owns 1961-76 390-427-428 Ford engines, then the Edelbrock 60069 Performer can be a great companion of your machine. This is one of the best heads that come with a 428-cobra jet-designed valve for street-use speed. It’s also a wise choice if you want an excellent airflow SBF head.

With CNC-machine-profiled intake and exhaust runners, your vehicle is ready to act well. It also ensures your engine will get better airflow and performance for any on-road and off-road riding. Besides, you’ll find machined parts to provide an accurate fitment to mating parts.

Specialized Department

The Edelbrock 60069 comes with a 72cc combustion chamber which ensures a better ignition system without cooling problems. As a result, you’ll get improved power across the RPM range.

What Sets This Apart

• Valve guide is made from manganese bronze material
• Threaded insertion in the rocker stud
• Manifold bolt holes for added strength and longevity
• Entirely machined valve cover

Benefits

• Helps the engine to avoid leakage issues
• Machined valves cover ensures more gasket seals
• Higher throttle response
• Increased torque across the RPM range

Drawbacks

• Insertion of factory-assembled Helio-Coil in the rocker stud may be a bit problematic

Our Experience with It

We found this quite efficient after assembling the head on an SBF engine within a few minutes. Moreover, it reduces the wearing of threads and the chances of bottoming the shaft bolts in the ford cylinder head. So we guarantee you’ll always get improved performance after replacement.

Verdict

For those who want excellent retention and flow in small block fords, there’s nothing better than the Edelbrock 60069 SBF head. Its high-quality intake and exhaust valves ensure improved gas flow, resulting in maximum power.

 

4. Flotek 203505 Cylinder Head

Many people think they’ve to spend a fortune to get a good performing headpiece. But that’s not true when it comes to Flotek 203505 aluminum SBF head. This flowing head will offer high-end features yet at an affordable price.

The Flotek head for small block Ford V8 allows for a higher compression fraction than a stock cast iron head without causing pre-ignition issues. Further, its superb design and construction help your vehicle to get better throttle responses.

Specialized Department

The Flotek 203505 is compatible with Ford Windsor 289, 302, and 351 units. These SBF heads are an excellent pick if you need a lofty RPM and easy-to-maintain option for ford engines.

What Sets This Apart

• Compatible with most ford engines and flat tappet shafts
• Hardened retainers and locks
• Multiple angled valves job
• Maximum lifting capacity is 0.550 inches

Benefits

• Made of solid materials to ensure durability and stability
• Can withstand most impact or liquid damages
• Straightforward installation
• Natural casting and finish improves engine efficiency

Drawbacks

• Guide plates may fit loosely

Our Experience with It

What fascinates us about the Flotek 203505 is its lightness with a natural satin finish that ensures no obstruction of wear or tear. On top of that, you’ll also get rid of low-lasting value at this price. This headpiece is also a good pick if you need something for solid street performance.

Verdict

If you want to rebuild your ford 302 block or plan to purchase well-built heads for 351 Windsor engine, Flotek 203505 is a fair deal to try out. You’ll even find high-temperature exhaust ports and bronze guide plates, which are best for close-fitting.

5. Edelbrock 5023 Cylinder Head

Are you guys looking for a pair of entry-level street-use ford cylinder heads for your modern muscle truck, car, or street rod? Then Edelbrock 5023 is just the solution to your problem. These heads feature an excellent A356 heat-treated aluminum casting design for more casting strength and performance.

The Edelbrock 5023 is one of the best aluminum heads for 302 that lets your engine combustion process act fast and well. Those who want excellent burning energy can add this head to their small block fords.

Specialized Department

With a modern designed combustion chamber and large intake and exhaust valves, you’ll always get an improved burning process and airflow throughout your engine. That results in an efficient performance.

What Sets This Apart

• Engineered to be used for entry-level street applications
• Better to operate within idle to 5500 RPM range
• Perfect for pre-pollution controlled motor vehicles
• 12° valve angle and 45° valve seat angles

Benefits

• Moves more air throughout engine
• Hardened steel valve plates ensure tight-fitting
• Body-hugging attachment
• No fuel leakage or airflow blockage

Drawbacks

• Using any size other than 7/16 inch head bolts won’t work

Our Experience with It

We were pleased by how perfectly Edelbrock 5023 improves the engine efficiency with 200 to 400 HP. Moreover, it won’t crack or wreck even if driving in challenging road conditions as it’s made of solid materials. However, if you need heads for 302 Ford engine, you must give it a try.

Verdict

While you need a reliable flowing head for ford 289-351W jobs, you can opt for the Edelbrock 5023, designed with casting ports for most street performances. Not only will you get quality performance, but you’ll also find it worthwhile.

 

6. Ford Racing Small Block Ford Cylinder Head

Does the engine of your vehicle seem to be failing to provide the required result? The culprit could be a cracked head. Therefore, it would be best to use an advanced cylinder head on your new or replacement ford model.

The ford racing SBF cylinder head is designed with the latest features that ensure your engine will provide great strip and street power. This perfectly works with 289, 302, and 351 Windsor engines.

Specialized Department

As an advantage, you’ll get a velocity vane intake port to improve the fuel circulation process. This unique design of the intake valve also enhances torque across the RPM range.

What Sets This Apart

• Made of premium 356 T6 aluminum
• OEM 2.05-inch intake and 1.60-inch exhaust valves
• PAC 1219X conical design valve springs with machined holder
• Laser-cut valve guide plates to use with rocker arm stud

Benefits

• Steel alloy valve seats for stiff fitting
• Improved throttle response and power
• Machined to operate with 289, 302, and 352W ford
• 20° valve angle for more airflow

Drawbacks

• Not so suitable for installation on vehicles that are conducted on a highway or public road

Our Experience with It

What we like about this SBF head is its advanced intake port. That allows your engine ports to direct air circulation through the valve system. So, you’ll always get more torque and horsepower throughout the entire power range.

Verdict

Whether you need to change the wrecked ford engine or are in the action of a broad engine overhaul project, the Ford Racing cylinder head is just what you expect from a blockhead.

 

7. Small-Block Ford E-Street Cylinder Heads

If you’re someone who intends to obtain a substantial amount of power for regular street performance, you won’t get a better option than this one from Edelbrock.

This cylinder head comes with a 2.02-inch intake and 1.6-inch exhaust valve ports that ensure a suitable fitting. Besides, it allows your car engine to get a well-fitted option for installation.

Specialized Department

With a 170cc intake runner and 60cc combustion chamber, this ford flowing cylinder head will provide adequate performance, precisely what a daily driver wants from a small blockhead.

What Sets This Apart

• Modern style combustion chamber
• 170cc intake and 60cc exhaust runner volume
• Suitable for 289-351 Windsor V8 applications

Benefits

• Passes more air throughout the engine
• Operating limit of RPM is idle-to-5500
• Heat-treated A356 aluminum construction

Drawbacks

• Not so ideal for high street performance

Our Experience with It

What makes it apart from the rest is its excellent fitment with most ford models. So whether you want to exchange your old engine or get a decent cylinder head for a 351 ford engine, you won’t regret it after installing this one.

Verdict

The Ford E-Street maintains a proper balance in quality and performance. However, it’s quite a good choice if your driving routine involves only mild street applications.

 

8. Speedmaster PCE 435.1034 Cylinder Head

Inspired by a mix of old and modern technologies, Speedmaster creates unique DNA items to improve the performance of SBF engines. Their PCE435.1034 is such a great innovation designed to deliver your desired performance.

The 62cc combustion chamber and 210cc intake runner in this particular item work the best for street performance drivers who love to go on a long ride yet at a steady speed.

Specialized Department

While it’s about getting the best 351W heads, the Speedmaster PCE 435.1034 can be a pretty good choice. This also provides satisfactory precision and functionality.

What Sets This Apart

• Carbureted fuel delivery system
• 20° intake valve and 20° exhaust valve
• Dual springs for each valve
• Bronze-constructed valve guide plates

Benefits

• Easy installation due to assembled head
• Robust cast aluminum construction
• Perfect for all kinds of street applications

Drawbacks

• Not so suitable for other ford models

Our Experience with It

We were amazed by how properly Speedmaster PCE 435.1034 performed. Despite its high cost, it helps your engine provide the best output, just what an enthusiast wants from a small block ford head.

Verdict

If you plan to replace your 351 Windsor ford engine, you can’t get a better deal than this one. When you complete the installation, your engine acts like a charm.

 

Things To Consider Before Buying a Flowing SBF Head

It’s possible to get an inferior quality ford head for your engine. However, you can save valuable bucks from investing in the wrong product. That’s only achievable when you have a fair concept about those ford heads.

To let you attain a worthwhile outcome, we’ve enlisted some essential factors that you must consider before making a specific choice. These points will determine how your flowing SBF head works out.

Compatibility

When you end up making a random selection of flowing SBF heads without evaluating its compatibility with your small block ford, it’s ultimately a waste of your bucks. But it can be easily solved if you first ensure that your chosen SBF head is compatible with your small ford.

After choosing the product, you must check out all specifications of that particular ford small blockhead. Then, you can know without difficulty whether this head will operate on your machine.

Material

The ford small block heads are made out of stainless steel, aluminum, or other strong materials. Most of these materials will ensure a longer lifespan.

A good quality head for your vehicle engine, which would survive in the long run, is indeed a wise pick. So ensure the flowing blockhead you’ll choose is excellent for prolonged use.

Combustion Chamber Volume

To improve the efficacy of your Windsor ford engine, you should pick a decent SBF head that comes with good size and volume. When you get an accurately sized combustion unit, it’ll enhance the compression ratio.

As a result, it’ll perform the best to fit the components such as piston shape, gasket, bore, ring position, and deck clearance.

Intake and Exhaust Ports Volumes

Whether you want to alleviate fuel leakage or improve the speed of your vehicles, all you need to do is get the best cylinder heads for your ford engine. While it’s about evaluating the best cylinder head, you must prioritize volumes of intake and exhaust ports.

Good-sized intake and exhaust ports in the SBF heads will help the motor cut out fluid leakage and squeezing sound. So it should be considered before adopting an individual product.

Most users think that a broad-sized intake runner will provide the best result. However, it actually depends on the volume of your motor. Sometimes small-sized intake and exhaust ports can deliver excellent performance.

If you own a racing engine like Ford 7.0L FE V8, Ford Cosworth DFV V8, or any other higher rev machine, then large ports with adequate airflow would be the best choice for you.

Pick a precisely sized exhaust port with good flow through balancing the valve size and exhaust port volumes for your machine.

Performance of Engine

Before choosing specific stuff, you should figure out the purpose of use. The same goes for the SBF cylinder head.

If you want something for street applications or off-road driving, it would be great to go for a cylinder head that provides 1000 to 6000 RPM speed.

Budget

If you’re a thrifty guy who wants to make proper use of money, you should consider the price of your small block ford head. However, you shouldn’t compromise on the quality just because of a low price.

Some best SBF heads are available in the current marketplace that maintain a pretty good balance in quality, performance, and price. It would be best to invest in a standard SBF head than the low-cost ones.

Warranty

Warranty is an inevitable feature to evaluate while buying a flowing SBF head. No one wants to invest a decent amount of bucks in an engine head that can be wrecked in a short period.

So make sure your chosen product comes from a reputable brand with a satisfying warranty and payback method.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do you install a cylinder head on a small block ford?

When installing the small block ford cylinder heads, you have to set the head gasket in a proper alignment. Along with that, you must make sure that the parts of your engine are entirely clean.

After that, place the head properly and use a screw wrench. It would help if you used the torque on all cylinder heads to provide them with a good fit. However, it should be done following the proper assembling process and appropriate torque tool for the fitment.

Then, apply fluid or oil to ensure a smooth installment. Next, put the rocker arms, pushrods, and lifter. Ensure a secure fit through Poly-Loc rocker arm stud. Check all the attachments properly and make sure they’re not loose in fittings.

The next step is to assemble the gasket port and tighten the gasket. You should clean the parts before placing them. Then put all the bolts in the correct alignment and ensure a tight-fitting.

After that, place the valve cover gasket in an appropriate pattern and use a gasket seal.

How to identify SBF heads?

You want to find out the locations where the serial number is written. And to identify the SBF cylinder heads, you should check them out at the bottom portion, under the valve, or peak of the head.

After monitoring these three located sides, you’ll get to learn about whether the head is a small block ford or not.

What are the significant differences between SBF and SBC engines?

SBF and SBC engines have some notable comparisons that make one apart from the other. So let’s take a look at which one is the winner.

Size

Generally, SBC has a wide length and width compared to SBF. This is why SBC is not suitable for all kinds of truck engines.

Weight

This is the primary difference between SBF and SBC. Usually, SBC is heavier than the SBF. Though the ford blockhead is lightweight, it’s durable and robust enough to withstand heavy applications.

Exchangeability

The interchangeability of SBF and SBC is entirely different from each other. While SBF comes with many options, SBC has an excellent variety. However, the ford head has a better exchangeability than SBC.

Which is the best design flow port for a cylinder head?

The head that flows accurately and quickly is what we state as a fat flow port. Therefore, when the flow increases over the maximum lifting capacity, the volume of the ports is too large and poorly designed.

Consequently, you’ll get a low level of velocity and power. So the port which has the most flow rapidly reached is the best flowing port.

Does cylinder head help to enhance truck RPM?

Undoubtedly, a cylinder head has a significant impact on enhancing the truck RPM. It helps your truck engine to perform well while riding on the street and even off-road racing. The head also produces a good acceleration that allows your vehicle to speed up.

Are 383 and 440 cylinder heads the same?

Though 383 and 440-cylinder heads have different profiles, they belong to the same family. However, if you check out their fitment series, you’ll notice the 383 is not so good while 440 is an improved block. Not just in design, but also their breadth is different.

 

Final Words

Choosing a good cylinder head is crucial for those who want to rebuild a small block ford engine. You definitely don’t want to hear annoying vibrations from a functional motor and even get fuel leakage in your vehicle. Therefore, what you should consider is getting the best flowing SBF heads to avoid further nuisance.

Our article includes eight top-notch heads for small block fords with additional information. But of course, you should make your choice according to your needs, not only the price. Nothing is more crucial than a safe and smooth journey!