BlackSS2001

iTrader: (23)

Ok I was just wondering how to go about installing a cam in my car I don't want to pull the motor but how do I get the spring compressor back under the cowling? and how did you all keep the valves from falling into the cylinder?
(I have heard that you can just take out the spark plug and run an air line to it to pressurize the cylinder)

Blk97WS6

iTrader: (19)

You dont have to pull the motor. there are a number of spring compressors for our cars. my favorite is the Crane tool. you can get it from thunder racing. it works great on all cylinders and you can do 2 springs at once.

And yes, you can use a air compressor to hold the valves up. what you said above is what most people do to hold them up. you can get the air line that fits the spark plug hole at most autoparts stores(usually comes in a leak down testing kit).

You can also use the TDC method. for more info on this, checkout the cam/valvespring writeup on ls1howto.com

BlackSS2001

iTrader: (23)

awesome thanks a lot!!

Blk97WS6

iTrader: (19)

noooooo problem!

BlackSS2001

iTrader: (23)

wow that was really helpful Just wondering I was looking at thunder racing's web site and they sell this tool for the lifters


"Speed up your LS1 cam installation with JPR's new cam installation tool. These slipper handles are designed to support the lifters in the engine while you remove and replace your camshaft. No need to hurry because there is no fear of the lifters falling while using this tool. Designed to work with OEM style lifters and will not work with Comp "R" lifters. "


To me they look like two over priced pices of round stock
couldn't I just use some metal round stock???

and is this the compressor tool you were talking about?

Blk97WS6

iTrader: (19)

yeah thats the JPR tool for the lifters. thats what i used and it worked great. most people just use some steel 5/16 dowels. but i had a bunch of "thunder bucks" and i ended up only paying like $25 for it.

and yes, thats the crane tool. make sure its for an LS1 and not the LT1 version if you go to order it because i believe they are different(not positive)

Blk97WS6

iTrader: (19)

PM me if you want to buy my lifter tool...we can work something out
I think TR sells it for like $80 or something

BlackSS2001

iTrader: (23)

yeah they do well $84.99 lol

another question what about the oil pump and timing chain will I need new ones?

I'm going to buy the MS4 cam

Blk97WS6

iTrader: (19)

i would replace them while your in there. especially with that cam. its a pretty big one.

BlackSS2001

iTrader: (23)

ok cool thanks any brand that you prefer or know that is good?

lt1formula2000

iTrader: (10)

I would do a ported LS6 pump and a LS2 chain. It's strong pretty cheap and works with the stock gears. I've got about 3500 miles on it with my MS4 and have no problems

Blk97WS6

iTrader: (19)

+1 for that combo. thats what i used as well, and no problems at all.

00slowredz

www.ls1howto.com

BlackSS2001

iTrader: (23)

cool thanks guys

BlackSS2001

iTrader: (23)

so all that I would have to buy would be the chain?

Blk97WS6

iTrader: (19)

yup just the chain. its like $35 from texas speed.

BlackSS2001

iTrader: (23)

one last thing (I hope)

should I change out the lifters?
I really don't want to.
I saw that Texas Speed has some LS7 ones for sale and I was wondering if they would be any good

GTObsessor

iTrader: (2)

Depending on your mileage, most would say it's a good idea - anything over or very close to 6-digits on the odo is what i've heard but don't quote me on that one. I've heard the Comp replacements are very good but with that kind of lift, the LS7's may be a better option but I'll leave that to someone that knows more about them.

Blk97WS6

iTrader: (19)

Ive heard nothing but good things about the LS7 lifters. I would also replace them if you have higher milage. i didnt do mine, but thats only because i plan on doing a new shortblock in a year and 1/2 when my car is paid off.

BlackSS2001

iTrader: (23)

well I just rolled over 66,000 the other day