Hello all!,

I've been searching on forums for a while now but I can't seem to find the answer I am looking for. I currently have a set of 243 heads that are milled .020 and will be going on a 5.3 (LM7). Just want to know what head gasket should I use. My goal is to make more compression. I do want to be on safe side so the valves don't hit the pistons. Also I was recommend to throw in a LS7 cam as a "sleeper cam". I have read that the ls7 wouldn't fit well in a 5.3.

 

Hi Chris, I would fit a FelPro 1041, this will give you better "squish".

The LS-7 camshaft has a 121 C/L VERY good for PV distance.

We have the gasket/studs in stock.

The Compression Ratio with a 121C/L NEEDS to be high.

Lance

 

You will lose quite a bit of low-end torque with the LS7 cam. Unless you are getting this cam VERY cheaply, there are better ones with far better power curves that will still be very stealthy, and have VERY good P/V clearance. Something like a 212/218 duration, .550" lift, 14*LSA will idle smoothly and make more power than the LS7 cam.
Just my .02.

 

Thanks for you input the ls7 cam is free, that's why it became an option. I do have a COMP custom grind cam 222/222 .581 112LSA cam that was considered the original plan. Should I consider going back to the original plan?

 

If you don't mind some lope, go ahead and use it. You WILL make power with it, but it will sound like it, lol. Especially if you already own that cam too. At least you have a choice here.... to stealth or not to stealth..... such a quandry...
Honestly, you will have a lot more fun with the COMP cam. Just go for it.
Also make sure you have the right valve springs to handle the lift. Have fun!