i've got a stock L31 roller cam laying around, and have read that its a good 20 ft/lbs across the board over a stock L05 cam, so it sounds like a very worthwhile upgrade for me. i know im going to have to get a different distributor gear, but what timing set would one use for this application? what valve springs would i need? my L05 is a 93 if it makes any difference.

 

Copied from the "LT1 Cam Digest" (Sticky at the top of the TBI forum):

Parts you will need

Cam swaps should include new valve springs and a timing chain set. The stock valve springs are not designed to run with cams over or near .450” lift. High mileage also plays it toll on stock springs. They wear and fatigue over time and if exercised in a greater range of motion with a new cam they will likely fail or cause drive train instability. Here is a link that covers the basics behind valve springs. It is by far the most informative thread on TGO on this subject. There are many valve springs on the market that would suffice for an LT1 cam swap. I would however stay away from K-motion and the famed “z-28” springs. They are cheap for a reason. Stick with a comp or crane cams set and you will be fine. A properly matched set should run you around $50.

 

decided to swap heads too, so im just running the stock Vortec springs for now.