Chevy Vortec Intake Manifolds

Intake manifolds for 1996–2002 Chevy 305 and 350 small blocks with factory Vortec cylinder heads. Vortec heads use a different intake bolt pattern from earlier small-block Chevy heads, so a standard SBC manifold will not bolt on.

Our V8 intake manifolds are cast and CNC-machined in our own factory, then checked for air-tightness, dimensions and finish before they are packed. Orders ship within 24 hours on business days from our warehouses in Ontario, California and Bloomingdale, Georgia.

Which engines and vehicles these fit

These manifolds fit the GM L31 5.7L (350) Vortec and L30 5.0L (305) Vortec small blocks, plus older Gen I blocks that have been fitted with Vortec or E-Tec style 8-bolt heads. Factory Vortec small blocks were used in:

• 1996–1999 Chevrolet and GMC C/K 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickups
• 1996–1999 Chevrolet and GMC Suburban
• 1996–2000 Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon
• 1996–2002 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans
• 1999–2000 Cadillac Escalade

Fitment follows the cylinder heads, not the vehicle year. If you are unsure, count the intake bolts: Vortec heads use 8 (4 per side), earlier SBC heads use 12.

How to choose a Vortec intake manifold

1996–2002 GM 5.0 (305) and 5.7 (350) Vortec engines use 8-bolt heads with a different pattern from earlier small block Chevy heads, so they need a Vortec-specific intake. Older blocks fitted with Vortec heads use the same intakes. For the full carb conversion checklist and torque specs, read our Vortec Intake Manifold Guide.

Not the right page if you have…

• 1987–1995 Chevy 305/350 with TBI: those heads use the 12-bolt pattern with angled center bolts. See our TBI vs 4-barrel intake guide and the small block Chevy intake manifolds.

• Vortec 4800, 5300 or 6000 (4.8L, 5.3L, 6.0L): these are LS-based engines. See GM LS intake manifolds.

• Vortec 4200 (4.2L inline-six) or Vortec 4300 V6: we don't make intakes for these engines.

FAQ

Will a regular SBC intake fit Vortec heads?

No. Vortec heads use 8 intake bolts instead of 12, so a pre-1996 SBC intake will not bolt on correctly.

Do these fit a 305 Vortec?

Yes. All four fit both the 5.0 (305) and 5.7 (350) Vortec.

What is the torque spec for a Vortec intake?

12–15 lb-ft in sequence from the center out, with thread sealant, then re-torque after the first 30-minute run once the engine has cooled. See the full install guide.

Can I run a carburetor on my 5.7 Vortec truck?

Yes. It is a common conversion, but it also involves fuel pressure, ignition and, on 4L60E/4L80E trucks, transmission control. Our guide covers the full checklist.