My current plan when I rebuild the engine this winter is to use GMPP Vortec heads (on my '81).  Anyone have experience doing this who can tell me if all the needed holes are in them to match up with all of the accessory brackets for A/C, alternator, etc, same as my pre-vortec heads, or will I need any new brackets?  Hopefully I don't have to convert to a serpentine system.  As cool as they are, I don't want to spend the $$...

chesh,

 The vortec heads have the 3 bolt holes drilled and tapped on each end of the cylinder heads. So your alternator bracket will bolt up to it. The A/C will bolt up to the head, BUT the brace that bolts up from the A/C compressor bracket to the intake manifold will not even be close. I never fabricated anything for that yet. I really haven't had a problem to justify making one. As for the AIR injection pump. I don't if that will require modification. I don't have mine installed. I could take a couple pics of my engine compartment over the weekend and send them to you if you would like.

Edit: I was just thinking. I know GM just came out with a new Vortec cylinder head casting. It's a little different than the 906 or 062 casting. It has the word "vortec" casted on it. And "GM" casted in the intake ports. I will check. But I believe it may be drilled for both intake bolt patterns. Similiar to the Fast Burn heads. That would allow you to use your original intake manifold. Plus the valve springs are rated for more camlift versus the original vortecs. I will do some research tonight.

Sarge

That would be great if you don't mind, Sarge.  My email is john.chesher@convergys.com or you can post here.

Thanks!

chesh,

you have mail.

Sarge