I have a 396 block to build for my 69'. The heads I currently have are 119cc and have 2.25in & 1.94 ex. valves. Talking with Compcams, if I am able to use Wiseco PTO39H3 pistons [ +38 dome] this would put me @ 10.5:1 cr. Then a SK11-208-3 cam with 1411-16 rollers, a Weiand 8019 intake, and a 850cfm carb. Thier tech says about 500hp on pump gas. Does anyone with knowledge know of a way to get more HP out of my 396. I am not set on using these heads, so if you know of a better setup please recommend a combo and what HP you think it will achieve. I am looking for a Muncie M22 for tranny and will be changing the rear end also. The car is pretty much gonna be a street machine, however I do live less than 5 miles from the local 1/8mi track. I want to be able to drive this car on the highway.

Thier tech says about 500hp on pump gas. Does anyone with knowledge know of a way to get more HP out of my 396.

I want to be able to drive this car on the highway.You want more than 500 hp? A 500 hp N/A 396 is not going to be very happy on the highway.

Going beyond 500 hp would likely require more RPM than hydraulic lifters would like. If you could live with the periodic valve lash adjustments, this should not be a problem. It depends on your state of mind. I opted for the horsepower and RPM of solid lifters, though I drive on the street all the time. But I'm still young and dumb. A hot solid cam and a good porting job should get you well beyond 500 ponies in your little 396.

Do it the easy way, make it a 496. Lots of displacement in the replacement of a single digit:D

You can't run those heads with valves that big. 2.25+1.94=4.19, a standard bore 396 is 4.094, +.030 over=4.124, +.060=4.154. You need different heads. Sorry to be there bearer of bad news.