CHEVROLET 3873487 Cylinder Heads

( Brand: Chevrolet ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 3873487 ), ( Type: Cylinder Head ), ( Material: Cast Iron ), ( Finish: Unfinished ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )

Review CHEVROLET Chevy Cylinder Heads Casting #3873487 fits 350 1983–1988

The **Chevrolet 3873487 1983 1988 Chevy 350 Small-Block Cylinder Heads** are a meticulously engineered and highly sought-after component for enthusiasts and mechanics restoring or upgrading classic Chevrolet engines from the early 1980s. These heads are designed to complement the iconic **L34, L98, and L78** 350 cubic-inch small-block V8s, which were standard in everything from the **Corvette, Camaro, and Caprice** to the **C/K trucks and full-size sedans** of the era. Crafted from high-quality **cast iron**, these heads feature a robust **wedge combustion chamber** shape, optimized for efficient combustion and reliable performance under the demanding conditions of high-revving, high-torque applications. The **intake and exhaust ports** are generously sized, allowing for improved airflow and better scavenging, which translates to enhanced horsepower and torque especially when paired with a high-performance camshaft, intake manifold, and fuel system. The **valve guide and seat design** is precision-machined to ensure minimal leakage and maximum durability, while the **bolt pattern** aligns perfectly with the stock 350 engine block, ensuring a secure and leak-free installation. Whether you're building a **street-rod, drag car, or high-mileage daily**, these heads offer a balance of **reliability, performance, and authenticity**, making them an ideal choice for those seeking to preserve the spirit of the classic Chevy V8 while pushing its limits. Available in both **stock and aftermarket configurations**, including options with **larger valves, improved cooling fins, or port-matching kits**, these cylinder heads are a cornerstone for any serious restoration or performance project targeting the **1983 1988 Chevy 350 engine family**.

### Pros and Cons of Buying 1983 1988 Chevrolet 350 Cylinder Heads (Part Number 3873487)

#### **Pros**

1. **Compatibility and Reliability** The 3873487 cylinder heads are designed specifically for the **L34 (high-performance), L98 (standard), and L78 (high-performance) engines** in the 1983 1988 Chevrolet 350 small-block V8 lineup. They are a direct replacement for stock heads, ensuring proper fitment and functionality.

2. **Performance Potential** These heads are often used in **high-performance builds**, including **nitrous oxide (N2O) applications, forced induction (turbo/supercharger), and high-RPM applications**. Their robust construction can handle increased stress when paired with upgraded camshafts, intake manifolds, and fueling systems.

3. **Durability** The **cast iron construction** is known for longevity, especially when properly maintained. They are less prone to warping compared to some aluminum heads, making them a solid choice for **high-mileage or daily drivers** that see occasional performance modifications.

4. **Aftermarket Support** These heads have a **large aftermarket following**, meaning you ll find **porting services, gaskets, studs, and performance upgrades** (such as **intake valves, exhaust valves, and valve springs**) readily available.

5. **Cost-Effective Upgrade** Compared to **full engine rebuilds or swapping to a different engine**, replacing cylinder heads is a **relatively inexpensive** way to improve power and reliability. They are often **cheaper than OEM replacements** due to their age and commonality.

6. **Easy Installation** With the right tools and some mechanical experience, these heads can be **installed by a skilled DIYer**. Many shops charge **labor costs** for head work, so doing it yourself can save money.

7. **Versatility** They work well in **street, strip, and even light trucking applications**, making them a **practical choice** for a wide range of builds.

---

#### **Cons**

1. **Age and Wear** Being **30 years old**, these heads may come from **older stock engines** that have seen significant wear. If purchasing used, you must **inspect for cracks, warping, or valve seat erosion**, which can reduce performance and lifespan.

2. **Potential for Cracks** **Cast iron is brittle**, and these heads can develop **micro-cracks** over time, especially if the engine was modified aggressively (high boost, nitrous, or poor cooling). A **pressure test** is essential before installation.

3. **Valve Seat and Guide Wear** Stock valve seats and guides in these heads **wear out over time**, leading to **leaking valves, poor compression, and detonation issues** under high loads. Rebuilding or replacing seats and guides is often necessary for **high-performance use**.

4. **Limited Stock Performance** The **stock valve sizes (1.92" intake, 1.50" exhaust)** are **not optimal for high horsepower**. Larger valves (such as **2.00" intake, 1.60" exhaust**) are needed for **serious power gains**, requiring **porting or aftermarket heads**.

5. **Head Gasket Issues** Chevy 350 heads are notorious for **head gasket failures**, especially if the engine runs **hot or has poor cooling**. Using **modern head gaskets (like Fel-Pro or ARP)** and ensuring proper torque is critical.

6. **Porting and Flow Limitations** The **stock port geometry** is not as optimized as **modern or high-performance heads**. While porting can improve flow, it requires **expertise** to avoid damaging the heads.

7. **Weight Consideration** Cast iron heads are **heavier than aluminum**, which can slightly **reduce high-RPM power** compared to lighter alternatives (though the difference is minimal in most applications).

8. **Fueling Requirements** If pushing these heads to **high power levels (300 HP)**, you ll need **upgraded fueling (fuel injectors, fuel pump, or carburetion)** to prevent **detonation and engine damage**.

---

### **Conclusion**

The **1983 1988 Chevrolet 350 cylinder heads (3873487)** are a **solid, budget-friendly choice** for **rebuilding or modifying a small-block Chevy engine**, especially if you're working with **limited funds or a DIY approach**. They offer **good durability, aftermarket support, and compatibility** with a wide range of applications.

However, they are **not without drawbacks** **potential cracks, wear, and stock limitations** mean that **proper inspection, rebuilding, and upgrading** (valves, seats, gaskets, and fueling) are **essential** for reliable high-performance use. If you're running a **stock or mild street engine**, these heads will work fine, but for **serious power (400 HP)**, you may need to **supplement with aftermarket upgrades** or consider **modern heads** (such as **Edelbrock, Holley, or JE**).

---

### **Recommendation**

- **Buy used or new (if available) and have them professionally inspected for cracks and warping.**

- **Rebuild with new valves, seats, and guides** if they show significant wear.

- **Use a high-quality head gasket (Fel-Pro or ARP) and proper torque specs.**

- **Consider porting for better airflow** if pushing for **moderate power gains (200 300 HP).**

- **Invest in aftermarket heads (Edelbrock, Holley, or JE) with larger valves** for better flow.

- **Upgrade fueling (fuel injectors, ECU, or carburetion) to match power output.**

- **Ensure proper cooling (radiator, thermostat, and coolant system) to prevent overheating.**

- **Consider aluminum heads if weight reduction is a priority.**

- **Get a pressure test** to check for cracks.

- **Inspect valve seats and guides** for wear.

- **Check for warping** (use a straightedge and feeler gauges).

- **Verify compatibility** with your specific engine (L34, L98, L78).

The **3873487 heads are a great value for budget builds**, but **they require attention to detail** to avoid common failure points. For **maximum reliability and performance**, pairing them with **proper upgrades** (valves, fueling, cooling) is key. If you're serious about **high horsepower**, consider **aftermarket alternatives** for better longevity.

Details:

The cylinder heads for sale have been hot tanked to ensure they are suitable to be rebuilt. No machine work has Bernadine. Item for sale is a pair of Chevy 350 cylinder heads circa 1983 -1988, Casting #3873487. They are bare cores and sold as is.

part #: 3873487 prices

• $395.00-$998.00

specifications cylinderheapar:

• for models: 350
• for makes: Chevy, Chevrolet
• for years: 1983-1988
• brand: Chevrolet
• mpn: 3873487
• type: Cylinder Head
• material: Cast Iron
• finish: Unfinished
• country of origin: United States

returns cylinderheapar:

• policy: No Returns

shipping cylinderheapar:

• service: UPS Ground
• class: Standard
• cost: $75.22
• carrier: UPS
• type: Calculated
• transit: 4-9 Days

offer cylinderheapar:

• availability: In Stock
• sold: 0
• quantity: 1
• options: Ship-to-home
• started: March 12, 2026

seller cylinderheapar:

• rating: 100.0%
• # reviews: 66
• city: Euclid, Ohio

payments cylinderheapar:

• wallet: Apple-pay
• other
• credit card: Discover

general cylinderheapar:

• Car Truck Parts Accessories > Engines Engine Parts > Cylinder Heads
• condition: Used

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