hey all. i'm probably going to do a cam (probably a tr224/224) and ls6 intake install this winter. i'm getting the cam package the includes the following :
- Comp Cams 26918 Valve Springs
- Comp Cams 772 Titanium Retainers
- Thunder Racing Stock Length Pushrods (7.400)
- Cam Swap Gasket Kit
i was wondering what else i will need to the job right. injectors? ls6 oil pump? do i actually need titanium retainers? also, where can i get directions for the install? i've installed cams in vehicles b4 but not ls1's. please, any info will be appreciated.

 

http://www.ls1howto.com/
Thank jmx

don't "need" ti. ret.,and for sure not new injectors, maybe new oil pump if you have miles, upgrade to an 01-02 pump..

 

The TR224/224 is a really nice cam (I have it on a 112LSA in my M6 car) and TR is a REALLY good company (very helpful).


As said, you don't NEED titanium retainers (TR also told me this) but they don't cost much ($100 or so) and will help the springs live longer and work better (so they are a good mod if you can afford them).

I WOULD get a new ported oil pump for your car as the early LS1s (pre 01) have had problems with oil pumps going out. Its MUCH easier to do the swap now (durring install) than it is in 6 months when it just goes dead. Get a new pick up tube O-ring at the same time. DO NOT reuse the old one!!!!

I also would (and did) do a double roller chain. You can get them from SDPC2000.com for $85 and it will go hand-in-hand with the oil pump swap (have to remove oil pump to do chain anyways). The factory chain has A LOT of slop in it (mine did with only 25K on it) and this will cause some in advance/retard of the cam (sure its "within GM specs..." but do want your car done RIGHT or just "within spec").

Depending on mileage, you MIGHT want to look into a new set of lifters (even factory will work). Like anything else, over time the internals "could" get worn and gummed up causeing problems at higher RPM (pump up). Ask TR what they think you should do on this one (I'm no exspert). The downside is, if you want to change the lifters, you have to remove the heads to get at them. Thats another two gaskets and either a set of ARP studs or bolts, or a set of GM head bolts (if you do it, GET THE STUDS....they are MUCH better).


If you do all of that stuff (build it right the first time), you should have a first rate car that will be very reliable (I drive my car everywhere...school, store, parties, etc. and it never gives me any trouble....).

 

I've got an install howto that is "beta" right now...it'll be officially released this week sometime. A sneak peek is here
http://www.ls1howto.com/index.php?article=23 and it may answer your questions.

 

very nice writeup...ill be using that

 

JMX you are the man!!!! Nice *** writeup Wish I had this writeup when I was doing my install

 

I used his Heads & Cam install for my cam install, just read over everything first and edited out what I didn't need. Keep up the good work, jmX!

 

thanx everyone, i appreciate all the input.
jimx- you da man!! one more question. i'm guessing i can use the stock rockers with the cam? thanx again.

 

jmx- How soon are going to have your Cam swap only write-up on an Fbody

 

Thanks guys!

NGozer, yeah you can reuse the stock rockers. I'll add that to the FAQ in the article.

Darkhalf, look above at the link I posted in this thread!

 

JMX is the BEST!

Jon:
Have you ever considered documenting a rear gear change on a 10 bolt?

 

LOL, I can never tell how sarcastic you are being.

And as for the rear gear change, I did actually document a diff swap in a 10bolt, but I didn't feel confident enough about it to post it. I generally try to do stuff a few times before I document it.

 

Great write-up Jon!

Say... Whos that big goofy bastard wrestling with the radiator?