heads/cam question

lil_Mike · 04-30-2008, 04:04 AM

ok well im swapping my crossfire over to carb. i got a set of vortec heads,and a decent size cam oh and i also have 1.6 rockers. someone told me that i mgiht have to change out the springs or something to accomidate the cam.

is this true?

heres my cams specs (take in mind i have the 1.6 rockers)

mr.beachcomber · 04-30-2008, 09:23 AM

Anytime you install a new cam, it's a good idea to install a set of new springs matched to the cam's characteristics. Even though your new lift is only 0.4656" with the 1.6 rockers, be sure to check for coil bind after installing the new springs.

Hope this helps!

Curveit · 05-02-2008, 02:40 AM

That sounds like an "antique" cam. Have you checked with Comp Cams or some other major brand company? See what they have in the 224 @ .050" range. Unless of course. you already have that one.

GOSFAST · 05-02-2008, 08:32 AM

That's a bit on the small side, lift-wise, for a 350" SB. The .050" duration is fine! Would use wider L/S, read below! You may experience some vacuum problems with the 108* L/S.

Would have much better overall performance with the stock "L-82" grind along with the 1.5 rockers only!

The L-82 would give some greater vacuum readings and work with the relatively low-compression I assume the '72 unit retains.

One more "positive" with the "OEM" L-82 is the effective lift (.450") at the valve without "help" from the rockers. The 1.6 rockers, adding some .030" lift, will place some slight add'l loads on the lobes! There's enough "grief" in this industry with "flat-cams" as it is now.

Thanks, Gary in N.Y.

P.S. For a "drop-in" spring for your present cam OR the L-82 you can get by with the Z-28/LT-1 singles, 110# closed and 300# open (depending on the lift). These springs (Associated #SS-943-7) will handle up to .500" (nominal) lifts!