I've been gathering info on the parts I'll need for the 383 I'm building, and this is the latest thing I've been thinking about. Given that the L98 comes with roller lifters from the factory, is there any real benefit to going with aftermarket units?

Just for the record, I'm building up a 2nd block while keeping the car driveable with the current 350, so whether I go with GM parts or aftermarket, I'm going to have to buy a set - just wondering if there's much/any price difference, & whether or not it's worth it...

Thanks all.

In a word. No. The factory lifters are just fine. That is what I'm running.

Buddies '88 L98 hit the dyno last month and put down 290rwtq with just exhaust and 1.6 rockers. They're worth it to me...

90,000 miles on mine with a 383 TF heads and Miniram. 6500 RPM Dyno runs and no problems

Just to clarify, I'm talking about lifters, the little things that ride on the cam, under the pushrods.

I'll definitely be getting full-roller rocker arms, but my question is about whether name-brand lifters are any better than the stock GM units...

Thanks for the feedback though.

IMO the stock GM ones are very good. I wouldnt change them.

No they are not. Basically Crane, Comp , GM, and everybody else is made by Eaton. For my 383 I am using the stock 90K lifters in mine and in my GF's blown RS we are using the summit brand replacement lifters which are about 120 bucks for 16 of them. 6K dyno revs with those and no problem as well. The GM roller lifters are practically never replaced. I like many others just took them apart and cleaned them in solvent and put them back together then.

I used my stock ones, I never cleaned them with solvent though. I just soaked them in oil until I was ready to put them back in.

Here is a post on anther site. Has lots of information about roller lifters. Mainly about Comp Cams aftermarket lifters but covers others. Comp R's - CamaroZ28.Com Message Board

Excellent, thanks guys, I really appreciate it.