Cletus05

Thanks for all the suggestions everyone, I'm going to be doing all those things...

As for the lifters go, LS7 lifters should be fine? Or do I need to get something heavier duty?

So to wrap this whole process up so far:

New Cam
New Lifters (LS7?)
New Pushrods (Measure length)
New Lifter Trays
Gonna soak the lifters in oil for at least a day before they get put in

ae13291

iTrader: (8)

sounds good man, you should hopefully be golden

Cletus05

I can't seem to find any LS1 replacement lifter trays anywhere but from what I understand the GEN IV lifters trays will fit the GEN III engines?

69LT1Bird

iTrader: (1)

http://sdparts.com/details/gm-factor...parts/12551162

Cletus05

Thanks!

JPH

iTrader: (2)

Yes in deed. Was thinking along the same lines a soon as I read this post.

XtraCajunSS

iTrader: (2)

We have them as well, We only use the Gen IV replacments anymore.

http://www.thunderracing.com/catalog...&sid=869#P7283

Thanks,
Shane

Monte4ever

iTrader: (2)

The LS2 trays are built stronger than the LS1/6.

69LT1Bird

iTrader: (1)

Different shape yes stronger no

XtraCajunSS

iTrader: (2)

I have both types here in front of me. The Gen IV lifter guides do appear to be thicker overall and especially in the lifter area than the old Gen III style. It does seem GM strengthened then newer style guides.

Thanks,
Shane

printmanjackson

iTrader: (1)

do you guys think this is the reason we are seeing so many lifter failures lately from stock lifters? Do these lifter trays wear that much?

69LT1Bird

iTrader: (1)

Since there are millions of these in use I think these things are the prime contributors.

Remember, with all of the different iterations of the LS based engine on the road, cars, trucks etc., you only hear about the few that fail and never about the ones that are working as designed. Just like everything else, take complaints with a grain of salt.

1) Inexperienced DIY installers who do not set up preload correctly or inspect parts properly.
2) Aggressive/fast ramp rate camshafts.
3) High spring pressures.

XtraCajunSS

iTrader: (2)

The main factor is age. These are plastic parts which are in some cases nearly 14 years old. I have seen lifter guide failures on COMPLETELY stock motors. Last year, I replaced an entire engine in an 01 Z06 after a lifter tray failure. The lifter turned, the roller and axle came apart, stuck the oil pressure relief valve open, and got jammed between the number 3 piston and counterweight on the crank. The piston cracked completely in half...

Shane

printmanjackson

iTrader: (1)

Good Lord!

So would it make more since if you're going to replace the lifter, to do so with a bar type and not use the lifter tray?

XtraCajunSS

iTrader: (2)

I wouldn't necessarily go that far. I still use the plastic guides and obviously GM has upgraded them over the years. You should be fine with the GEN IV trays.

Thanks,
Shane

5.3LJimmy

iTrader: (10)

It would also be a good idea to check end play on the camshaft as well. If it is moving in and out excessively this could cause an issue. The cam retainer and timing gear can wear down or a botched double roller chain install can allow this to happen.

Cletus05

Got my car back yesterday, seems to be running good (I'm a little paranoid hearing noises everywhere now, I'm sure once I put some miles on It'll be fine lol)

Ended up putting 7.375 push rods in, hopefully everything will run smooth and reliable now.