Thread: Is it worth it: VE head vs. Built DET head

So I have a project in the works and plan on using the VE head on my RWD setup (SR20DET), but the question I keep getting from friends is whether its worth the extra money to bolt up the VE head as opposed to just building the stock DET head (valve, springs, retainers, etc. port/polish, etc.) So we know the VE head flows better but will it out perform a built up DET head? What are the true advantages to going VE head. Im probably going to do it regardless just to be different and original but I would still like to know theres some performance advantages as well.. So what do you guys think VE or built DET head.

And Im speaking of the S13 Red Top DET head being built for 25-30psi, will it outperform a VE head with slight machine work and upgrades?

RWD high port heads are not worth it in my opinion. A S14 Lo port head flows way more. If its between the VE and S13 red top, i'd go VE, if its between a VE and S14 lo port head, then go S14. I have a ported S14 head that flows 275CFM intake and 200cfm exhaust which is similar and or better than a VE head.... you just have better cam selection. If your going for most top end power, then VE head, if you are going to use a smaller turbo like a 2871 then just stick with a DET head.

^^^ exactly what he said. There is always the cost issue. And the VE head will require some more modification to fit in the S chassis. It will fit though. If you were going for over 600whp I would go VE. But if you aren't sleeving the block and you want less power than that you should stick with the DET.

The VE motor would be great, but it will cost you more money.

Yeah I was figuring the cost issue with the VE as Im going to give the engine to Mazworx for most of the build wit sleeving included. 600+ is definately where Im trying to take it. Any other opinions on this?

if your looking to make big power, its going to be at high revs where the DET engines valvetrain is inferior.

The VE head is better everywhere, but......

You can make a old school DE head rev to 10,000 RPMs plus with no problem.

I have made the list already of what needs to be done and have done it before as that what was done to the 9.4 sec 2.2L DET motor that when into the 200sx SER Race car. All without Rocker Arm stoppers.

Also MAZWORX has done it also on there 9.2 Sec 240sx

You can do 600whp and keep th rev limit lower than 7800 rpm in a det no prob just pick up the right parts.

I can take my DE to 9,000 and sometimes a lil bit more jejejeje all day long with just BC valve springs stock retaines and the VE oil pump......

So there is hope for the DET head. I respect Mazworx alot and have noticed the high gains they achieved with there 240sx and Silvia drag car. So I know it can be done with the right parts and right tuning and of course the right $$$. The feedback is very much appreciated. I never really thought of the Rev factor, which seems to be in the VE's favor as well. I'm just wondering why the RWD SR crew havent jumped all over the VE head swap like us FWD SR people; Is it much more difficult in a RWD conversion compared to FWD?

Well one big hurdle in the S chassis is the VVL solenoids. The placement of the solenoids puts them in the firewall. Also the distributor is a bit of an issue. Obviously, you cant use one. With a CAS and the 20V single solenoid it fits barely. But fitment is really tight.