LT1-LT4 Modifications 1993-97 Gen II Small Block V8

Rebuild Time

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Old Jan 18, 2009 | 12:23 PM
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So the ol lt1 is getting some high milliage on her and I was wondering what are some of the better rebuild and over hual kits out there?
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Old Jan 18, 2009 | 12:31 PM
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Do you have a decent local shop that can do all of the machining? Are you going to be doing all of the assembly yourself?

What are your hp/tq goals for the motor?
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Old Jan 18, 2009 | 12:35 PM
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Doing the work myself in a shop hopefully, Im just looking for options and Id like to keep the engine stock and reliable.
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Old Jan 18, 2009 | 01:05 PM
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I'd say just have the stock crank cut/polished. Have your builder look at your bearing wear pattern and recommend bearings (I am going Clevite 77 "H" series). Bore the block .030 over, have the heads checked for straightness (mill a little if required), and possibly take a little off the block deck. I would install a new GM LT4 Hotcam kit with all of the extras (rockers, springs, etc. that are in the kit). The LT4 hotcam is a small upgrade that will not do too much to reliability, but it will make the car more powerful and if you are looking to stay nearly stock and reliable, I'd say go for it. Have the heads reconditioned. Run forged pistons for future plans and the stock rods should be good enough for what you are doing even if you go with the hotcam. Depending on the final quench, you need to decide what your compression ratio is. Stock is 10.5:1. I'd shoot for 11:1 because it will do no harm and will increase the power a little.
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Old Jan 18, 2009 | 02:34 PM
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Sounds good. I forgot to mention that I do run nitrous when I go to the track. And I was wondering if the nearly stock internals would hold up against a 125 shot? Of course Im only running a 75 shot as is without any problems.
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Old Jan 18, 2009 | 03:22 PM
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Stock parts are fine at 150-175.

The springs in the HOT kit are NOT sufficient for the heavy LT1 valves, the LT4 had lighter valves which made the springs capable of working OK.

Honestly more T1s are screwed up doing what you are aiming too than those that are helped. The stock setup is rather good and not cheap to improve upon.
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Old Jan 18, 2009 | 06:22 PM
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dont cheap out with anything for the engine. and your valvetrain is VERY important. everyones talking good things about the new patriot duel spring kit. go with those and some comp cam pro magnums with all supporting hardware. you can also find a camshaft alittle meatier than the LT4 hot cam that wont ruin your drivablility. i just ordered an LE 223/230 cam that will give me more then enough power over stock and not hurt its reliability or drivability. keep the stock crank, id check the connecting rods and get new pistons
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Old Jan 18, 2009 | 07:50 PM
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Yeah i doing a rebuild on my LT1 soon too. If your going to rebuild it do something better than the hotcam kit. Back in the day it was cool but it's 2009 they're way better cams out their around that price range.
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Old Jan 19, 2009 | 09:29 AM
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Thanks for the info guys. Definately going to put it to use.
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