Predator

Fellas, I really need some help. My car is apart right now and I'm about to install some PP ported 243 heads with .650 Patriot double springs already installed in the heads (and some ARHs but that's beside the point). I have a TR224/112 cam already installed.

My question is about rockers and springs. It seems I have three options:

1) Install Harland-Sharpe 1.8s (which I already have), but I'm worried, as Predator-Z mentioned, that I would be making a mistake because Thunder Racing does not recommend 1.8s with their fast rate cams. I thought that the Patriot .650 double springs could handle it though.

2) Remove the Patriot double springs from the new 243 heads and install the 918s I have on my LS1 heads and just use stock rockers.

3) Or this was recommended by Predator-Z that I could use Crane Gold 1.8 Variable Rate rockers but this would set me back about $700.00, and I already have the H-S 1.8s and stock rockers.

What should I do out of these options? I'm leaning towards biting the bullet and getting some Crane Variable Rate rockers, but I'm not thrilled about spending another $700.00. What would you guys do? Thanks.

Predator

Just to add, a fourth option would be to just use my stock rockers with the Patriot .650 double springs (which are already installed in the new heads), but I didn't consider this as an option because the TR224/112 cam only has .563 lift, and I assumed that the .650 double springs would be too much spring.

Anyone? I need to make a decision. Thanks.

vettenuts

iTrader: (4)

1.8 rockers will accelerate the valves much faster and put much higher demands on your valve train. There is someone in MA who is running the Crane 1.8's (don't remember handle) but Slowhawk (Don) knows him. He has a blue Z06. He might be able to give you some first hand feedback. Personally, I think I would opt to the 1.7's with that cam and keep the springs you have.

Predator

Appreciate your feedback vettenuts. I just got off the phone with Gunnar at Patriot to find out if I can run the stock rockers with his .650 double springs and a TR224/112 cam and he said it would be okay.

So did you mean just run the stock 1.7 rockers with the Patriot 243s and .650 double springs?

Thanks again!

ZL1Killa

iTrader: (17)

i'm running my stock rockers with my dual comp cams 921 springs, good up to .650 lift just fine for over 6k miles

2002_z28_m6

iTrader: (10)

I would put the stock rocker back on and sell the 1.8's. I wouldnt run those on anything but a stock cam. Thats just my .02. Predator I live 10 mins away from Worcester and I am doing a H/C/I swap right now. If you need a hand let me know. I have ARH headers they are easy as hell to install.

Predator

How much lift is your cam? Thanks.

Predator

Wow, small world, and what a coincidence you're doing an install now too.

I'm going to use the stock rockers, thanks for the heads up.

I'm at the point where I have my old y-pipe and JBA headers removed, manifold, coil packs, valve covers off. Next I have to remove the water pump, power steering pump, belts and install my UD pulley. Then remove the heads, install new heads, valvetrain, and the ARHs.

I really appreciate the offer to help, and the same offer applies to you, but I'm all set at the moment. I'm just cleaning everything up now, the manifold, valve covers and engine compartment. I should be all set but if I get stuck I'll drop you a PM. Same to you, anything I can do to help give me a holler. Jeff @ 508-791-5758, I live on Monteforte St. in Worcester, off Grafton St. near
route 20.

Glad to hear about the ARHs being easy to install. Just wondering, how high did you have to raise the front of the car to slide them in?

Thanks again!

2002_z28_m6

iTrader: (10)

I installed them on a short set of jackstands. The car doesnt have to be all that high. I will call you sometime. We can head to a car show or N.E.D. when they both are done.

Predator

Great, I was worried about having to put boards under my jack to get it raised about 24".

That sounds like a plan. I'm going real slow on my install but I should be done by the end of this week, or early next week. I have to tune it too.

You got my number, call anytime. Nice talking to you, and thanks again for the help!

ZL1Killa

iTrader: (17)

.605 / .600

Predator

You're using the perfect spring. You got about .050 headroom. My worry was .562/ .561 lift with .650 dual springs, but I'm giving it a go. Glad to hear the springs are working-out for you, and thanks.