Best Head Engine Kits of 2026
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Head engine kits are an essential component for any engine upgrade or rebuild. These kits include all the necessary components required to replace or upgrade the cylinder head of an engine, including valves, springs, retainers, and seals. They are designed to provide improved performance and durability, and are available for a wide variety of engine types and models. With a head engine kit, you can enhance the power and efficiency of your engine, and enjoy a smoother and more reliable driving experience. Whether you are a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, a head engine kit is a must-have for any engine overhaul project.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Head Engine Kits
Ford Racing M6067D46 Head Changing Kit
This head engine kit includes a part number M6067D46 and is made in the United States. The package weighs 10 pounds and has dimensions of 17.74 L x 7.61 H x 10.5 W inches.
ARP Head Stud Kit for BMW M50
This head stud kit by ARP is designed specifically for the BMW M50 engine. Made in the USA, it comes with a package weight of 1.18 kilograms and package dimensions of 22.1 H x 6.0 L x 10.7 W (centimeters). It is a vehicle-specific fit and falls under the category of Head Engine Kits.
Elgin TEK-401 Top End Kit for Small Block Chevy Engines
This head engine kit is designed for Non-Roller Lifter engines and weighs 2.799 kilograms. Made in the United States, it has a package dimension of 33.4 H x 2.9 L x 10.4 W (centimeters).
DNJ Head Bolt Kit for Jeep and Ram 3.0L V6
The DNJ Head Bolt Kit is a brand new replacement set designed specifically for Jeep and Ram models from 2014 to 2022 with a 3.0L V6 engine. This kit ensures a perfect fit for your vehicle, making installation straightforward and hassle-free. It supports engine designations EXF, EXH, and EXJ, covering a wide range of compatible engines. Manufactured by DNJ Engine Components, a trusted name with over 30 years of experience, this kit guarantees quality and reliability. Choosing this kit means you get durable parts that help maintain your engine’s performance and longevity.
Edelbrock 50169 Performer Complete Cylinder Head
The Edelbrock Performer Cylinder Head is designed to enhance your engine's performance with its well-balanced features. It comes with a 55cc combustion chamber, which helps improve the efficiency of fuel burning, giving you better power and fuel economy. The intake and exhaust runner volumes are carefully sized to optimize airflow, allowing your engine to breathe easier and perform smoothly. With intake valves measuring 1.91 inches and exhaust valves at 1.50 inches, this cylinder head supports better air and fuel mixture intake and exhaust flow, leading to improved engine response. This product is a great choice if you're looking to upgrade your vehicle’s engine with reliable and efficient components.
DNJ Head Bolt Kit for Nissan Infiniti V8 VK45DE VK56DE
The DNJ Head Bolt Kit is designed for Nissan and Infiniti V8 engines from 2002 to 2016, specifically the 4.5L and 5.6L VK45DE and VK56DE models. This brand-new kit provides everything you need to service your engine’s head bolts, ensuring a secure and reliable fit with its 6-point head design. DNJ Engine Components, known for over 30 years of quality and trust, supplies this kit. Choosing this kit means you get a complete, high-quality solution that helps maintain your engine’s performance and durability.
DNJ Head Bolt Kit for Hyundai, Kia
DNJ Head Bolt Kit is a brand new kit designed for 1.8L-2.0L Hyundai and Kia models. It fits various models and services the complete engine. DNJ Engine Components, a trusted provider of engine parts, ensures quality and reliability. By choosing DNJ, you are opting for a product with a proven track record, giving you peace of mind. This kit is essential for ensuring proper engine function and longevity.
Ford Racing Head Changing Kit for 4.6L 3V Engine
The Ford Racing Head Changing Kit for the 4.6L 3V Engine is a trusted and reliable product from Ford Racing, a well-known industry leader. This kit is designed to make changing the head engine of your 4.6L 3V engine easier and more convenient. With this kit, you can enjoy the convenience of a hassle-free installation process. The kit includes all the necessary components and features to ensure a smooth and efficient head changing process. Whether you are a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, this kit is perfect for you. Upgrade your engine with the Ford Racing Head Changing Kit and experience the convenience it brings.
Haldex Kit Head Repair Min.
The Haldex Repair Kit is an auto part that is designed to repair the head engine of your vehicle. With a package quantity of 1, this kit comes with everything you need to fix your engine's head. The model number, 3559545K, ensures compatibility with your specific vehicle. Made in the United States, this kit is of high quality and reliable. Whether you are a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, this Haldex Repair Kit is a convenient and cost-effective solution for repairing your engine's head.
Ford Racing Supercharged Head Changing Kit
The Ford Supercharged Head Kit is a comprehensive package designed for 5.4L 4V engines. With dimensions of 19.7L x 11.9W x 3H inches and weighing 8.95 pounds, this kit includes everything you need to change the heads of your vehicle. The package quantity is 1, and it falls under the category of Head Engine Kits. This kit is perfect for DIY enthusiasts and mechanics looking to upgrade their engine's performance with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Will new cylinder heads increase horsepower?
While new cylinder heads can potentially increase horsepower, the results vary depending on the original state of the cylinder head and the quality of workmanship. It is not a linear process, and the increase in horsepower can range from 10 to over 50bhp with a port and polish.
2. What is the best material for engine heads?
For a street engine, cast iron heads are commonly used as they help the engine reach operating temperature quickly after a cold start, which is beneficial for emissions and cold drivability. Cast iron heads also retain more heat, improving fuel economy and thermal efficiency.
3. Can you rebuild an engine head?
Yes, engine heads can be rebuilt. The process involves fixing broken components such as springs, valves, injector sleeves, or guides. Cracks in the cylinder head can be welded to restore its functionality.
4. Are aluminum heads better than steel heads?
The choice between aluminum and steel heads depends on the specific engine and its requirements. For a low compression street engine (9.5:1 or less), iron heads can offer durability and performance at a lower cost. However, for maximum power and if the budget allows, aluminum heads can be a preferred option.
5. Why are Vortec heads so good?
Vortec heads are highly regarded due to their superior design. They have high velocity, minimal turbulence, and an efficient combustion chamber design. These factors contribute to better performance, especially at lift levels below .400-inch, where Vortec heads outperform many other options.
6. Is it worth rebuilding a blown engine?
Rebuilding a blown engine is generally not recommended unless the engine is relatively new and only requires a few specific parts to be replaced. If the engine is worn out or has suffered significant damage, such as from oil loss, it is often more cost-effective to purchase a fully remanufactured engine.
During our head engine kit research, we found 24 head engine kit products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 2,942 customer reviews through our big data system to write the head engine kits list. We found that most customers choose head engine kits with an average price of $494.09.
The head engine kits are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of head engine kits, including Ford, ARP, Elgin, DNJ, Edelbrock. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.