Cylinder Head Compatiblity

[drv2e30]

Hello,

I've been calling around trying to find out whether or not the late model heads will work with early model blocks for the 3.1L 1997 GAGT. I recently purchased a set of heads off of a 2000 3.1l Chevy Lumina and the guy assured me it would work for my application. However, upon further inspection of the head the intake manifold gasket will line up with every hole except one.

That's when I began to call around, to almost every head shop I could find. After calling about 30 places I've received mixed emotions about compatibility. A few guys said that the compression is way off and will work properly, another set told me that the intake manifold gasket will not work, and then another said that the engine's computer will not be able to handle the heads.

Has anyone ever done anything like this? I mean I think it would really help the flow characteristics but I really don't want to blow the engine.

If it helps the original casting numbers are: 245-03769 on the 97 GAGT
the second set is: 245-07487 on the 00 Lumina heads.

Thanks

Sean

[bszopi]

RE: Cylinder Head Compatiblity

The only real difference between the 2 heads is a larger intake valve on the newer head. Otherwise, they are almost identical. There were some slight variations in port dimensions, but we have only seen small differences (tenths of inches) which could easily be equated to casting flaws. As far as the intake gasket goes, get the gasket for the year of head (00 in this case) and you'll be just fine. Since you're in there anyway, I'd recommend going with the new GM design so as to not get the dreaded intake manifold gasket leak. The part number and TSB is around here somewhere... should be simple to find with a search.

And don't worry about blowing anything up... there are a few of us who have done alot worse swaps and are still running strong.

[drv2e30]

Would you think the head gaskets would be the same?

Thanks,

Sean

[v6h.o.]

Would you think the head gaskets would be the same?

Thanks,

Sean

Yes,

[drv2e30]

Thanks for the great advice this engine has never sounded so good!

Thanks,

Sean