Does anyone here have any experience in the differences in a ported SOHC vs. a ported DOHC 2.0/2.4 head?
I never really considered the SOHC until I looked at the SOHC valvetrain for the first time a few days ago. For a race-only application (high rpm, solid adjustable lifters, hight lift cam, big valves, etc.), I think the valvetrain is potentially better. The rocker/shaft design is (IMHO) more robust at high RPM than the DOHC design. I think the DOHC design is likey to toss rockers (just like our 8V setup) if anything resembling valve float is achieved. Plus, I think it wouldn't be too terribly difficult to make adjustable (possibly even high strength billet) rockers for the SOHC setup. I realize there are off-the-shelf adjusters for the DOHC, but there is nothing available to replace the rockers. Jesel makes a very nice setup for the OHC Ford V8's. It would be nice if they had that setup for the DOHC Neon head. But, the cost is way high (~$100/valve for Ford V8's).
Anyway, what about the flow? I know the DOHC flows better out of the box than the SOHC (only marginally on the intake, but much beter on the exhaust). But, can the SOHC be ported to the point where there is really no difference? Or is there some limitation on the SOHC head that keeps it from being the way to go?
Keep in mind that this is going on a 2.4-based (155 cuin) NA engine that I intend to rev to ~7500 rpm for drag racing only...