okay, if was to buy a used LT1 cam and stuff it in my motor just the way it is, how horrible will it run (stock chip) and would it mash my valve springs right away? would it even be drivable?

 

it would run, you will never get all you can out of a cam swap without computer work.

also, whenever you do a cam swap, i suggest new valve springs, in my mind, why chance it? if a spring breakes, you can cause serious engine damage, it is worth it to save $80 and a few hours of your time.

 

are the Z28 valve springs i here about gm production parts? how much are they? is there a cheaper after market spring?

 

crap

 

dude i did the swap a few months ago and my valves are fine!!! over 100,000 miles on the car!
i also have a tbi chip and it works great...

 

i am not saying you can't run them with the stock valve springs, but i wouldn't. if you are going through the effort to put in a cam, it is a good time to do valve springs. especialy since with the lt1 cam, you are likely going to be running the revs higher than before. in mind it is cheap insurance. you will also notice the engine behaves much better at higher revs with good valve springs.

 

i agree with you about the higher revs so that why i just below 5000 and only if i am taking off in a hurry!!!
i usually shift at about 2500 or 3000 in normal driving

 

there is no argument, that 'it will work'

but have you ever seen what a piston looks like, when a valve spring breaks.

like i said, it is cheap insurance.

 

I've seen what happens when a valve spring breaks on a Chysler 318 in my grandpa's house boat. Its nasty. Valve fell into the cyclinder. Needless to say the head, piston, and block are now anchors for the boat.

A lot of people don't change springs when installing the lt1 cam but I would just to be safe. Why chance your motor? To save 50$?

 

yes, valves hitting pistons is a gut wrenching sight!but my motor sees 5500 several times a day, im just not used to a motor that falls on its face after 4500, even though it doesnt feel like it is we all know it is. however i will definitly pick up some springs for the swap, i am not trying to rebuild my entire engine during winter in WV major PITA! so i will get the springs, after all mine has 155000+ on the clock.thanks so much guys!:yourock: :rockon:

 

92RSV8:

Did you do JUST the cam?

If so, how much difference did it really make?

Worth the effort?

Did you lose much low end? Is it just as driveable?

I just want enough ba**s in this thing to get 2nd gear rubber when I want it. Really don't need to be changing out heads and all.

Thanks---appreciate being able to benefit from your experience.