Upgrading your 440 Mopar with aluminum cylinder heads is one of the most effective ways to boost power, reduce weight, and improve cooling. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right set can be overwhelming. We researched manufacturer specifications, industry standards, and aggregated owner feedback to bring you this comprehensive guide. Our evaluation focuses on flow numbers, compatibility, durability, and real-world performance to help you make an informed decision.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Edelbrock Performer RPM 440 Best Overall Straight spark plug location, 84cc chambers, 2.19/1.81 valves |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Trick Flow Specialties PowerPort 240 Best for High Horsepower 240cc intake runners, 78cc chambers, 2.25/1.81 valves |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Indy Cylinder Head 440-1 Best for Racing Max wedge port design, 80cc chambers, 2.25/1.81 valves |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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ProMaxx Performance 440 Aluminum Heads Best Value 72cc chambers, 2.19/1.81 valves, assembled with springs |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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BluePrint Engines BPE440A Best Turnkey Kit 84cc chambers, assembled with springs and retainers |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Mopar Performance P5249474AB OEM Upgrade 84cc chambers, assembled, uses stock rockers |
7.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Speedmaster PCE276.1000 Budget Pick 72cc chambers, 2.19/1.81 valves, assembled |
7.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Edelbrock Performer RPM 440: Best Overall
The Edelbrock Performer RPM 440 heads are a favorite among Mopar enthusiasts for good reason. Based on our research of flow bench data and owner feedback, these heads deliver strong low- and mid-range torque while supporting up to 550 hp out of the box. The straight spark plug location simplifies header fitment, and the included hardware saves time during assembly. Many users report gains of 30-50 hp over factory iron heads with a matching cam and intake.
However, these heads are not designed for extreme high-RPM applications. If you are building a 600+ hp race engine, the ports may require additional work to achieve peak airflow. Also, the 84cc chambers will lower compression slightly compared to smaller chamber options, so choose accordingly. Skip these if you need a dedicated race head or if you are on a tight budget and willing to accept lower flow numbers.
- Excellent out-of-the-box flow for street/strip builds
- CNC-machined combustion chambers for consistent performance
- Includes valve springs, retainers, and seals for easy assembly
Pros: Proven power gains on mild to moderate builds; Direct bolt-on with standard rocker arms
Cons: Not ideal for high-RPM racing without porting
2. Trick Flow Specialties PowerPort 240: Best for High Horsepower
The Trick Flow PowerPort 240 heads are engineered for serious horsepower. According to published flow numbers and owner testimonials, these heads flow over 340 cfm on the intake side, making them ideal for stroker engines or forced induction. The 240cc runners are optimized for high-RPM breathing, and the CNC porting ensures consistent quality. Owners report reliable performance even with aggressive cam profiles and high boost.
That said, these heads are overkill for a mild street build. The large runners can kill low-end torque if the rest of the combination isn’t matched. They also require a high-flow intake manifold and carburetor to take full advantage. Additionally, installation is more involved due to the need for specific pushrod lengths and rocker gear. Skip these if you are building a daily driver or a budget-minded street machine.
- Massive intake runner volume for top-end power
- CNC-ported intake and exhaust bowls
- Heavy-duty valve springs for high-lift cams
Pros: Exceptional airflow for 600+ hp builds; Reinforced deck and thick walls for durability
Cons: Requires high-flow intake and carb to realize gains
3. Indy Cylinder Head 440-1: Best for Racing
Indy Cylinder Heads are a staple in Mopar racing. The 440-1 model features a max wedge port design that, when properly ported, can support over 900 hp. Based on feedback from racers, these heads offer excellent durability under extreme stress, with thick decks and reinforced valve areas. They come with high-quality components like bronze guides and hardened exhaust seats for longevity.
However, these heads are not a bolt-on solution. Out of the box, they are rough castings that require significant porting to achieve advertised flow numbers. This adds cost and complexity. They also need aftermarket rocker arms and custom pushrods. Skip these if you are not experienced with engine building or if you want a turnkey solution.
- Traditional max wedge port shape for high airflow
- Thick castings for high-boost applications
- Includes bronze valve guides and hardened seats
Pros: Proven in competitive racing environments; Excellent for nitrous or supercharged builds
Cons: Requires extensive porting to reach full potential
4. ProMaxx Performance 440 Aluminum Heads: Best Value
ProMaxx heads offer an economical entry into aluminum heads for the 440. With 72cc chambers, they bump compression compared to stock iron heads, which can add noticeable power. Many budget-minded builders report gains of 20-30 hp with a simple cam swap. The heads come fully assembled, making them a straightforward upgrade for DIY enthusiasts.
However, our evaluation of owner feedback reveals some concerns about consistency. A few users have reported issues with valve guide wear or spring seat pressure variation. These heads are best for mild street builds where absolute perfection is not critical. Skip these if you demand race-level precision or if you plan to run high-lift cams without upgrading springs.
- Affordable price point for budget builds
- Smaller chambers for higher compression
- Includes valve springs for mild cams
Pros: Great bang for the buck; Good low-end torque improvement
Cons: Inconsistent quality control reported by some users
5. BluePrint Engines BPE440A: Best Turnkey Kit
BluePrint Engines offers these heads as part of a turnkey solution for their crate motors. They are fully assembled and ready to install, which simplifies the process for first-time builders. The heads are based on Edelbrock castings but with BluePrint’s own valvetrain components. Owner feedback indicates they work well with BluePrint’s camshafts and intakes.
However, these heads are not designed for maximum performance. Their flow numbers are modest, and they are best suited for stock or mild rebuilds. They also lack the premium features of aftermarket heads, such as CNC porting or heavy-duty springs. Skip these if you are building a high-performance engine or if you want the best flow available.
- Complete assembly includes springs, retainers, locks
- Designed for use with BluePrint crate engines
- Straight spark plug location
Pros: Convenient all-in-one package; Good customer support from BluePrint
Cons: Limited flow compared to performance-oriented heads
6. Mopar Performance P5249474AB: OEM Upgrade
The Mopar Performance aluminum heads are a direct replacement for factory iron heads. They are made from high-quality aluminum and offer better cooling and weight savings. Installation is straightforward, as they accept stock rocker arms and pushrods. They are a good choice for a restoration or a mild upgrade without changing valvetrain components.
However, these heads are not performance-oriented. Their flow is similar to stock iron heads, so power gains are minimal. They also come with a higher price tag than some aftermarket options that offer better performance. Skip these if you are looking for significant horsepower increases or if you want to maximize your budget.
- Direct factory replacement for 440 engines
- Uses stock rocker arms and pushrods
- Improved cooling over iron heads
Pros: Simple bolt-on with no modifications; Reliable and durable
Cons: Modest power gains compared to aftermarket
7. Speedmaster PCE276.1000: Budget Pick
Speedmaster heads are the most affordable option for aluminum heads. They offer small chambers to raise compression and come assembled. For a low-budget build, they can provide a noticeable improvement over stock iron heads. Some owners have reported satisfactory results with mild street engines.
However, our research found frequent complaints about inconsistent machining, poor valve seal, and thin castings. Fitment issues with intake manifolds and exhaust headers are also common. These heads are a gamble and are best suited for budget builds where cost is the primary concern and some extra work is acceptable. Skip these if you want reliability or if you are not prepared to deal with potential problems.
- Lowest price among aluminum heads
- Small chambers for compression increase
- Includes springs for mild cams
Pros: Very affordable; Good for budget builds
Cons: Reported quality issues and poor fitment
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of aluminum heads over iron for a 440?
Aluminum heads reduce weight by about 50 pounds per pair, improve heat dissipation, and allow higher compression ratios without detonation. They also have better flow potential for increased horsepower.
Will aluminum heads fit my stock 440 intake and exhaust?
Most aftermarket aluminum heads are designed as direct replacements, but some require specific intake manifold bolt patterns or exhaust port shapes. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for compatibility.
Do I need to upgrade my rocker arms and pushrods?
Many aluminum heads accept stock rocker arms, but performance heads often require aftermarket rockers and custom-length pushrods. Always verify the valvetrain geometry during installation.
How much horsepower can I expect from aluminum heads?
Gains vary widely depending on the head and engine combination. On a mild 440, expect 20-50 hp. High-flow heads with a matched cam and intake can add 100 hp or more.
Are aluminum heads reliable for street use?
Yes, quality aluminum heads are durable for street use. However, they require proper cooling system maintenance and should be checked for valve guide wear over time. Budget heads may have reliability issues.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top aluminum heads for 440 Mopar, our top pick is the Edelbrock Performer RPM 440 for its excellent balance of performance, ease of installation, and proven reliability. For those chasing high horsepower, the Trick Flow PowerPort 240 is the runner-up, offering unmatched airflow for serious builds.
