This summer I want to install an LT1 cam on my 89 RS but I'm worried about the springs. The engine is all stock with 100K miles, meaning that the springs have 100K miles on them. Even though the springs are rated at some .480 lift and the cam has about .440 lift, do the springs need to be changed due to the high milage? What can/would happen if I didn't replace the springs?

I cannot afford an engine rebuild so replaceing the springs would ruin my plans. I also want to install an Edelbrock TBI manifold, Hooker headers, an SLP takeoff posi with 3.42 gears, and a new chip from TBIchips.com Does this sound like a good setup?

 

Even though the springs are crappy as long as theyre not overstressed, they wont fail. Theoretically they could last forever if the stresses are low enough since ferrous metals have the property of infinite fatigue endurance. The LT1 cams lift shoulld be ok. If you like to wind it out or itll see high rpms more then once it awhile then you should replace the springs as a precaution.

 

They might not fail, but why chance it. Springs are not expensive anyway. I say change 'em .

 

Agreed. You could probably get away with them but it is not a good idea. Your could have unstable valvetrain if they are too worn out. They are also going to be exercised in a different mannor than the first 100k miles and will most likely break. Same goes for the timing chain.

 

https://www.thirdgen.org/techbb2/sho...=allgohere+lt1