cam swap

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Jun 2, 2009 | 08:40 PM

ls156belair

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cam swap

Guys, just got my new cam from Texas speed (T2) I have never tore into a ls1 before spent 30 yrs watching my father build old small blocks. My question is should I be concerned about changing the lifters? The man at Texas speed said it wasnt neccessary the motor had about 23,000 miles on it before it was completely rebuilt but the lifters appear to be the original and also I guess i need to pull the heads to remove the lifters before removing the cam. even though the motor hasnt been fired since complete rebuild should I change the head gaskets and head bolts? Thanks for all your advice
I am an old dog trying to learn new tricks

Jun 2, 2009 | 09:06 PM

Greg Pippin

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From: Golsdboro, NC

I did my cam swap saturday. its not hard at all, the worst thing is changing the valve springs. My car has 160,xxx miles on it, and i dident change my lifters. They pumped right up withen a few seconds after i fired it up with the new cam. Some people say to replace the lifters, Its up to you.

If you have any questions go to WWW.LS1HOWTO.COM, it shows you what to do step by step.

Jun 2, 2009 | 09:09 PM

ls156belair

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did you remove the heads or just use magnets to hold the lifters up as i have read on some sites

Jun 2, 2009 | 09:14 PM

Greg Pippin

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From: Golsdboro, NC

I went to LOWES and got 2 5/16" metal rods and slid them into the holes on each side of the cam. The metal rod wouldent go into the left hole so i used my oil dip stick!

Jun 2, 2009 | 09:16 PM

ls156belair

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great idea, I appreciate it I am new to this and dont want to do any more work than neccessary

Jun 2, 2009 | 09:23 PM

Greg Pippin

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From: Golsdboro, NC

Its verry simple, but time consuming.
Shoot me a PM if you have any more questions or post a thread, People are really good about helping out on here.

Jun 2, 2009 | 09:26 PM

ls156belair

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well I think I am in good shape now. I have it tore down and ready for the cam to be removed but I was ready to pull the heads so I am glad I asked. Did you degree your cam or just line up the timing marks as indicated in the comp cam directions.