Can you put 283 heads on 350?

Answer 1

Absolutely. However, while the 283 heads will most likely have smaller combustion chambers (resulting in higher compression) they also have smaller valves. If you want a good low end torque engine they will work just fine. If you plan on revving it much the 283 heads will choke the 350.

I will add that you may encounter difficulties getting the pulleys to line up. The 350's had 3/8-16 tapped holes in the ends for accessory brackets. The 283's didn't have these holes.

If you try to add the holes using a template or something, there is a possibility that you will drill through to the water jacket, and then you'd have to use good sealer on the bolts to keep things from leaking.

If you can bring over the brackets from the donor 283, it might be easier. Sometimes the intake manifold doesn't have the necessary tapped hole near the thermostat housing for the alternator tensioner. This means you may need to modify the tensioner to attach it to the first intake manifold bolt. I've done this by heating the bracket with a torch and putting a 1/4 twist in it. Then locate a new hole and drill. Probably have to grind off the corner of the bracket so it doesn't interfere with the #1 intake tract.

The aftermarket addresses this whole issue with complete bracket kits that include everything you'll need, but it's expensive. Check Summit, Jeg's or similar for your application. March Performance makes a nice serpentine setup for these also that is very good quality and looks nice.