Do LS1's still have head lifting problems under boost?
 

I know for a long time that ls1's had a big problem with the heads lifting under boost. I am very interested in the ls1motorsports single turbo. I see they are running 7-9lbs of boost. Any problems with the heads? Can the ls1 safely take more boost? Is this problem fixed? I ask because I haven't heard about it in awhile, and a couple of years ago it used to be a common discussion with the f/i guys.

Re: Do LS1's still have head lifting problems under boost?
 

I think stock head bolts and gaskets were the problem, most of us have switched to cometic mls gaskets and arp head studs and it stays down fine. i run 10psi and others run more, were doing alright.

also i think it was a tuning issue also, as they didnt have the equipment to tune.

Re: Do LS1's still have head lifting problems under boost?
 

the 'safe' boost numbers are definitely creeping up since the headbolts/tuning advances, but i think in general there is some design aspect about the factory ls1 head that leaves more to be desired.. basically need more head bolts, bigger bolts or stronger head design.

Re: Do LS1's still have head lifting problems under boost?
 

So what would the max safe boost level be with cosmetic gaskets and head studs?

Re: Do LS1's still have head lifting problems under boost?
 

an easy answer is there isn't one.. heads or cam? stroked? bored? etc. etc. is involved before even making a guess at max boost level

Re: Do LS1's still have head lifting problems under boost?
 

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Originally posted by MIGHTYMOUSE:
<strong>an easy answer is there isn't one.. heads or cam? stroked? bored? etc. etc. is involved before even making a guess at max boost level</strong></font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">I guess I should have asked what a safe power level is before head lifting becomes an issue. I was thinking about a JPR 382 all bore. Or if I build up one myself, then a 408. But, heck, if a forged 346 w/ the turbo will cause me to max out at the safe level, then I may as well save some money. No sense in going overkill on an engine if I can't use all the potential power. If you can see my point.

Re: Do LS1's still have head lifting problems under boost?
 

From what I understand, the heads can still warp under lots of boost, unless you do what some of the guys mentioned above... and maybe o-ringing.

Re: Do LS1's still have head lifting problems under boost?
 

Also, it's not just boost related... it also has to do with the power levels.