HOWDY BOW-TIE BROTHERS! I gotta '89 Camaro with the LT1. While the LT1's out of the car and on a stand, I'd like to put a little money into it. First, what's a good set of headers to replace the stock manifolds with? I'm looking for good sound (more important than power). Also, is there any other modifications that need to be done (ECM or otherwise) when changinf headers? ALso, what's a good cam to intall that'll give the motor a good lope. I'm sure you guys can appreciate what I'm lookin for in wanting some good thunder under the hood and out the pipes babyy!! THANKS A MILLION!

 

As for headers, I like my SLP's. If all you want is good sound with a little more power, look for a cam with about 224* @ .050" and a 112* lobe separation angle. Watch your lift; I don't know what max lift is on stock LT1 heads.

You do not need to modify the ECM bin to run the headers, but youmay want a custom tune for the cam. The cam will probably run with the stock program, but will be optimum with a custom program.

Good Luck

 

Thanks SKIDUDE. A fellow NORTH-CAROLINIAN! SWWAAYYTT!! Those '87 T/A's were some sweet rides, especially jet-black with those gold honeycomb 16" wheels! I'll check on those SLP's. BTW, what's the big deal with ceramic-coated vs. painted? THANKS A MILLION!

 

There are considerations involving headers on OBDII LT1s retaining the EGR valve. They're backpressure operated EGR valves so you WILL throw codes and SES lights until it's tuned out of the computer, you rig up an EGR simulator or you remove it all together.

If you aren't retaining the LT1 wiring harness or EGR system, or it's not an OBDII system, then there are no LT1 specific complications.

LT1s also run pig rich on the stock tune, headers only makes it worse.

Ceramic headers will typically last longer, not rust and have lower temperatures. Painted are the opposite.

A good mild cam would be the CC305 or CC503. A more top-end street/strip cam would be the GM847 or CC306. Both will require tuning and possibly a gear upgrade depending on what you have now, in addition to standard supporting bolt-ons.

You have the 260hp caprice motor right? not the 305hp F-body one?