karpetcm

iTrader: (2)

Do the heads need to come off if a mechanic is installing a cam? I was told it has to to replace the other valvetrain components and its a good idea to pull the heads.

sandragnx

iTrader: (82)

If you are replacing lifters also,then yes.If just the cam,then no.You can replace the cam without removing the heads.

karpetcm

iTrader: (2)

the mechanic was telling me i should replace the lifters as well. Do many people change the lifters when they do a cam swap?

3rdCoastPowerSports

iTrader: (5)

yes alot of people change the lifters when they swap cams... I always recommend new lifters when putting in a new cam. of course then you have the added cost of removing the heads, new head gaskets, new head gasket bolts. most people switch to the LS7 lifters and LS7 lifter trays.
you do not have to remove the heads to swap cams on the LS motor. you can put a two dowels down the oil passage holes to hold the lifters up during the swap