rsrevil347

iTrader: (1)

Posted this in the engine section but no help, maybe anyone over here has some info

I changed my cam and i am about to change the valve springs. I am going to use the TDC method that has been described very well on ls1 how to. My question can i leave the plugs in the head? other than the people who like to double check with a straw or a stick to feel if its at TDC is their any other reason to take them out? i also know that it would make turning the engine over easier but i am not worried about that. I am just trying to save some time, and my knuckles if possible. Thanks

JoeNova

Don't have an air compressor handy?

Remove the plugs. You don't want any mistakes.

1 FMF

iTrader: (1)

how else would you know if a given piston is at top dead center ?

MuhThugga

You need to take the plugs out.

cookseyb

You have to take them out to get the air chuck to the cylinder, so take them out and when the springs are changed put that plug back in...

badformulaLS1

iTrader: (1)

He's not using air he said he's using the TDC method.

You need to remove the plugs. You can then stick a small object through the holes to feel if the piston is at the top. If taking plugs out was something that bothered me like this, I probably wouldn't be attempting cam swaps on my own. Risking a dropped valve for the sake of not removing plugs is mind boggling to me, you would have a much bigger job to deal with than just removing plugs... You should be able to remove them all in about 20-25 mins at most. I find cylinder 8 easiest to get from underneath the car.

Also just noticed this is an old thread... So I hope it worked out ok.

alaska_guy

Yes, you can leave the plugs in if you like. Just follow the procedure exactly as described on ls1howto.com.

I just did my cam/spring swap and followed the same procedure. I did have my plugs out, but followed the instructions to the letter and didn't have a single issue. If you make sure you follow everything as described you will have zero issues.