Greetings,

Sorry if this is an 'old' topic, but i can't seem to find the 'search' option on the new thirdgen website.

I have a 305 TPI out of a 1987 firebird....numbers show it to have the infamous 'peanut' cam (1987 TPI w/Auto).

I have two questions:

1) I know the 1987 motor is a 'roller' camshaft motor. How hard is it to 'swap' in a hydraulic lifter camshaft....which leads me to question 2...

2) Does anyone have experiance with the Summit TPI cam kit that includes the cam/lifters/springs for approx 135 dollars?

I am looking to throw this motor in a 1987 Iroc roller that i have right now, and have to 'freshen' up the motor anyways.....the 'hydraulic roller' camshafts are very expensive, compared to the summit TPI kit...

Anyone have advice? Thanks.

Rich

 

Get a new zz4 "take out" cam. You should be able to find one for around $100. This would require you machining the heads for positive type valve seals but you would be light years ahead of that OLD flat tappet grind. If you don't want to do that I would suggest a comp xe256 cam.

 

thanks for the reply...

I am trying to 'avoid' any type of head work, or any 'extra' issues with this car, as it is a 'thowaway'....I am just trying to throw a motor in to it to sell the car.

If i was keeping this car, i would invest in a better long term solution....but for now, I am trying to find the 'cheap and easy' way out....

That's why the summit TPI cam kit caught my eye....it may be old....but at least it's cheap B-) and to include new springs, valve seals, etc....seems like the 135 dollar price cannot be beat...

I may just throw the motor in 'as is' and hope for the best....

Rich

 

If you want a cheap cam with no extra work, grab a used LT1 cam, there a dime a dozen on the 4th gen boards and will wake the car up a tad.

 

Agree about the LT1 cam!! For the money it can't be beat! Some people GIVE them away