Springs for Hotcam

Polar LT4 · 01-30-2003, 01:02 PM

I have an LT4 and am planning to install a HotCam and port & polish the head.

Should I install a double spring or stay with the standard LT4 single spring? I know that the double spring would require machining the head, but it will be off anyway. Cost is the concern. I can replace the LT4 springs & keepers for $36. The double springs (CompCam PN 986-16), keeper, retainer, and shimkit will run $190. Plus I'll have to spend another $50 on machining the head.

So, is the double spring setup worth $250 for the HotCam? What will the advantage be? Is the stock LT4 spring unsafe at 6400 RPM? Will I be able to get more revs with the double spring, or does power drop off after 6400.

BeaterShark · 01-30-2003, 07:39 PM

I ran an LT4 Hotcam in my '94 LT1 with the crane gold 1.6 rockers. I "upgraded" to the LT4 valve springs when I did the swap. I ran it that way for about 35k miles and then I sold the car. I had no problems with that combo. I had the rev limiter set to either 6400 or 6500 and I usually aimed to shift at 6300. I drove it pretty hard and probably saw 6000 RPM on a daily basis.