now, here's something i know many will disagree with. 1st let me say that i think d-port iron heads that cost in the $1500 range is rediculous unless you need 2 make every last bit of power you possibly can, runnin in a class that requires iron heads. otherwise, when you get that close 2 the $2000 mark, i think its time 2 switch 2 alum heads. that was not an option for me in the old days, but now it is. here's another fork in the road where i'll take the 1 less traveled. for street & any bracket racin down into the hi 10's, i say a d-port alum is plenty & is definately good gbt--they're a little cheaper initially, but get cheaper quick when you buy new headers. as most know, round ports are now around $600+. a hedman d-port is around $250 new & there are lots of cheap used 1's out there. i'd suggest that if you insist on round ports you find a good used set of headers before you buy the heads. again, if you've got the $ buy k hi-ports & new dougs & go rite on down the road. but if your budget is not unlimited, d-ports will save $$$. as for the choice between k or e d-ports--i don't know. i've read that e's have heli-coils in some of the bolt holes, instead of threaded alum. but, they have the heat riser 2 warm the intake on cold mornings. i don't consider this a drawback. i never filled a single heat riser--just used mr.g 502g intake gaskets with the thin metal block off plates--never a problem. but, if your race only, fill em if you like. if you got a little more $ & wanna go on down into the 9's--k hi-ports will getcha there for less than $3000. but its the rest of the 9 sec stuff that will cost ya! convertor, tranny brake, hd rear, dom carb, intake, roller cam set up, lifter bore brace, 4-bolt caps, extra hi-$ machine work, etc, etc, etc. 9 sec everything is hi-$ & is definately not gbt. but if you got the green--go for it! & if you really wanna have some fun entertainment, get yourself a big bowl of popcorn, or your favorite snackfood & a big soda pop(or your favorite tasty beverage), then pose this ? on the race forum--"whats the best way 2 build a 9 sec bracket car on a limited budget?" then just sit back & relax & enjoy the show!
