Anyone have any experience with Grumpy Jenkins World Merlin BBC heads? Local guy has a set of rectangle ports with 2.19/1.88 valves, big chambers, etc. I'm awaiting pics now. I'm wondering if they are a good head, comparable to factory rectangle ports, etc. I'm putting together a 489 with 10-1 and might take a look at them before I finish rebuilding a set of 049 ovals I have.

Thanks guys
Nick

Nick,if you feel the 049 would serve your purpose,you probably don't want the rectangle port Merlin. If you will post your intended use for the engine,others will be able to give you a more accurate assessment.
Mike

Its a 10-1 489 with a solid flat tappet. I'm looking at the Comp 282xs grind. It'll be a street/strip motor. I just saw the heads for sale at a decent price. I could probably go through them for no more then the 049s.

Grumpy heads are decent, but not the best on the market. combustion cambers leave a little to be desired, as well as the finish work in the parts and seats. Unless you are getting a smokin deal on them, stay with the 049's. The 049's will easily make over 500hp on a typical 468 if they are done right.

489 engine here.

pdq67

I think I'll stay with my 049s and just finish them up. I'll put the extra money into 4 bolt main caps and a 4340 crank. At least I'll have a bullet proof bottom end that I can throw some aftermarket heads on at a later time.

Thanks guys.