Hughes (HUG 2045) Top End 440 Power Package

[4404ME]

So, I was considering - down the road - of purchasing this package to upgrade my 440. In perusing YouTube, on an unrelated topic, I came across an individual who had posted a very critical video of Hughes products (heads, in particular), and it wasn't good, to say the least. Therefore, I'm tapping into the FBBO crew for some input. If not, Hughes.. then what have you used, or what would you recommend? To keep it consistent, I'd be looking at ALL of the components that come with the Hughes package. Thanks!

 

[davek]

post the video please

 

[CoronetDarter]

I've used Hughes Engines in the past and I have only good things to say. All they do is Mopars; and they don't just sell parts they're a machine shop too. The 440 in my Coronet is running their hydraulic FT camshaft #SEH3236BL-10 with an all Hughes valve train. Check out the specs vs. a Comp Cams hyd roller - they're about the same. When you call, most times Dave the owner answers, and he'll dig in to come up with the best solutions for your application.
Hughes sells Edelbrock heads, and they also offer custom porting. Was the issue with the casting or the machine work?

 

[diesel_lv]

I used 440 Source, but was planning on a full CNC port job from the beginning. For 1k fully assembled pair as the base, pretty good. But that was 12 yrs ago. Lately I've seen good things from Marsh Performance. Theirs are 900 w just valves per pair. But they are a machine shop so the heads typically don't need CNC. So the rest, springs, retainers etc based on cam, should be pretty good.

 

[Lefty71]

Smallest flat tappet solid cam Hughes makes.... and we used his rocker kit. Did a little of our own massaging, and I'm still not convinced on his spring recommendation, but the combo works well in our tiny iron headed 383;

69’ Dart vs BMW - YouTube

 

[4404ME]

post the video please

This is the video:
Hughes Engines messed up EQ heads - YouTube

 

[moparedtn]

Smallest flat tappet solid cam Hughes makes.... and we used his rocker kit. Did a little of our own massaging, and I'm still not convinced on his spring recommendation, but the combo works well in our tiny iron headed 383;

69’ Dart vs BMW - YouTube

Is that your YT channel Lefty?

 

[F4R/T]

I’ve seen that clip.. I’ve heard there was a disgruntled employee that did it but who knows. Now I have a 500 wedge with Indy top end , all prepped by them assembled by my guy and it was great no issues.

 

[451Mopar]

Maybe why Hughes no longer sells the EQ Heads?

 

[4404ME]

Thanks for the info, everyone! As I stated, my intention in looking into this.. buy the Hughes Top End 440 Power Package. When I came across the video, well, of course, it raised some questions. So, once again, I looked to the FBBO crew to share their vast, experienced, knowledge (the MAIN reason I joined FBBO, in the first place). From what you've shared, it sounds like I should have no concerns in going with Hughes. Thanks again, and if you have anything further to add, I'll certainly be all ears!

 

[Lefty71]

Is that your YT channel Lefty?

my son

 

[moparedtn]

my son

Ah ok, should I include it on the "official" FBBO member video channel list?
https://www.forbbodiesonly.com/moparforum/threads/fbbo-members-with-youtube-channels.205651/

 

[Lefty71]

should I include it

Sure.... there will always be more content of interest to Mopar enthusiasts, since we have four cars....

 

[moparedtn]

Sure.... there will always be more content of interest to Mopar enthusiasts, since we have four cars....

Done, sir!

 

[cudatom]

So, I was considering - down the road - of purchasing this package to upgrade my 440. In perusing YouTube, on an unrelated topic, I came across an individual who had posted a very critical video of Hughes products (heads, in particular), and it wasn't good, to say the least. Therefore, I'm tapping into the FBBO crew for some input. If not, Hughes.. then what have you used, or what would you recommend? To keep it consistent, I'd be looking at ALL of the components that come with the Hughes package. Thanks!

Nothing majority negative about Hughes. I ran one of his solid lifter cams. Made good power and ran low tens shifting at 6300. However, his ramp design is pretty agressive and his springs were dead after less than 150 runs. I talked to Jeff at Modern Cylinder Head about this( yeah it was a while ago) and he said that was a common problem with his cam and lifter PKG. I believe a better spring would have made the combo more durable. But Hughes pretty much called you a dumbass back then if you questioned him on anything.

 

[496 polara]

I have run several of their hyd cams and was happy with them. I also ran their smallest solid flat tappet cam in my 496.Pulled great in a heavy c body with ported iron heads. I had their 1.6 rockers on it as well. Sold the car last year and the parts are still in it.
They ported a set of 516 heads for me years ago and I wish I had kept them.They have also done their deep port match on several intakes for me.
I have to agree that if Dave disagreed with you he would get pretty short with you on the phone.Kevin not so much.

 

[F4R/T]

Dave is kinda short, Kevin is definitely more relaxed and salesman oriented.. Dave is sharp don’t get me wrong..Ive had good luck with them.