I searched through the archives and came up with different lifts. One says .495 while others say around .460. I'm hoping .495 because I plan on installing the LT4 hot cam which has .492 with 1.5 rockers. Does anyone know the true maximum lift that the iron L98 heads can handle? I'm going to be buying new heads in the very near future so I really dont want to have to do anything with these.

 

This is a quote from the TPIS catalog:

"Generally, all Chevrolets will accept approximately .490 lift with stock springs and retainers. But you must always check for coil bind and retainer to seal clearance."

On this they are talking about the L98.

 

Hmm. So you think I could get away with the LT4 Hot cam for a few months? I was going to wait until I got the heads but I really want to see how fast I can get with completely stock heads.

 

You said you were just going to do the cam and rockers. If you are going to do that much work anyways why not change the springs too. If you are planning on swapping heads in the future then you can get a bare set and put the new springs and rockers from the stock heads.

 

But what comes to mind when I think about new springs is having to have the heads machined.

 

i don't think u have to get the heads machined for Lt4 springs, i could be wrong though

 

From what I read in the archives you do. I hope that person who said that was wrong though.

 

my two cents....

i would not even put a new cam on old springs. you are talking about a more agressive, faster opening, higher lift cam on old, probably worn out springs, that are already weaker than stock. you are running the risk of valve float, wiping out the cam, lifters, and who knows what else.

my opinion, it's not worth the risk! get the proper valvesprings for the cam and do it right the first time. to me, an upgraded cam on factory springs is like "my car does nine's and i can still stop by the end of the track with my factory brakes!"

good luck! let us know what you do

 

Good point. I was looking on the TPIS webpage and found:

700-132 For all roller hydraulic and larger flat tappet cams
(uses L-98 spring seats). Use with ZZ-9 camshaft.
Maximum lift is .540 $125.00

This would fit with absolutely no work?

 

If you've got L98 heads they sound like they will; why not call them up to verify?