LS1 surging idle change cam or converter?
Thread Starter
Teching In
Joined: Jun 2007
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LS1 surging idle change cam or converter? Hello,
I have a 72 Chevelle with a LS1 conversion (from an 02 Camero). It was very well done about 4 years ago. It has a GM hot cam, ls6 intake, aluminum heads and headers. Iv had some surging problems lately, and took it to the Chevy dealership where I’m stationed. They have an in house performance shop that came highly recommend, and I feel they know their stuff. Got tthe computer fully tuned and it runs Great, except::: now when I come to a stop or I coast real slow (like on a cruise night) the engine surges ( drops to like 200 rpm then shoots up to 900-1000)I spoke with the tuner and he said my stall is not matched to the hot cam (2500 converter) it was worse before I took it to them and he said they tried to balance the tune as much as possible, but I need to make the cam/converter match. He said I have 2 options, change the cam or get a higher converter, he recommended 3000. I’m not looking to race anyone, I just enjoy cruising and hearing the exhaust, and having a little power to play with. What is my best bet? The converter swap is cheaper, but I’m worried a 3000 will be very rough for regular driving? I’m not too concerned with fuel economy as I only drive it to base here and there and to shows with the occasional date night cruise. I don’t need a strip monster, but I also don’t want some anemic motor. Sorry if has been asked 1000 times, I’ve searched and just can’t find my exact situation, and the more I read opinions on cams and converter the more confused I get. Thank you for any help! (4L60 E transmission/3:42 rear end)
I have a 72 Chevelle with a LS1 conversion (from an 02 Camero). It was very well done about 4 years ago. It has a GM hot cam, ls6 intake, aluminum heads and headers. Iv had some surging problems lately, and took it to the Chevy dealership where I’m stationed. They have an in house performance shop that came highly recommend, and I feel they know their stuff. Got tthe computer fully tuned and it runs Great, except::: now when I come to a stop or I coast real slow (like on a cruise night) the engine surges ( drops to like 200 rpm then shoots up to 900-1000)I spoke with the tuner and he said my stall is not matched to the hot cam (2500 converter) it was worse before I took it to them and he said they tried to balance the tune as much as possible, but I need to make the cam/converter match. He said I have 2 options, change the cam or get a higher converter, he recommended 3000. I’m not looking to race anyone, I just enjoy cruising and hearing the exhaust, and having a little power to play with. What is my best bet? The converter swap is cheaper, but I’m worried a 3000 will be very rough for regular driving? I’m not too concerned with fuel economy as I only drive it to base here and there and to shows with the occasional date night cruise. I don’t need a strip monster, but I also don’t want some anemic motor. Sorry if has been asked 1000 times, I’ve searched and just can’t find my exact situation, and the more I read opinions on cams and converter the more confused I get. Thank you for any help! (4L60 E transmission/3:42 rear end)
TECH Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 22,298
Likes: 3,619
From: Central Cal.
The GM Hot Cam isn't that radical a cam. Your 2500 stall should handle it. Sounds like a little more fine tuning is in order. Can you post your tune so someone knowledgeable here can see it?
TECH Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 22,298
Likes: 3,619
From: Central Cal.
