m16a2r

Hi everyone, this is my first post here, Im not very technically bright so please hear me out

Im thinking about purchasing this Heads and cam package from Texas Speed Performance online shop, here is what I choose:

Precison Race Components Stg 2.5 5.3L Heads & Cam
Texas Speed 224 Camshaft
114 LSA
pushrod length? hmm dont even know what to choose (should I keep it 7.400?)
Rollmaster Single roller non adj timing chain
Ported LS6 oil pump
Gasket kit

Everything for around 2 grands. Should I add anything or subtract from that list.

I drive 2002 Chevy Camaro z28 A4. Planning to keep it N/A and it is my DD.
Let me know if Im doing a right choice here.

And one more question: what should I expect to pay for labor in California. Thanks.

m16a2r

Need an advice please, Ill not gonna bother u guys after that, I promise

Injuneer

We have forums specifically for "engines", and that's where you will be more likley to get an answer. I'll move it to the LS1 Engine forum for you.

m16a2r

Thanks

Zitty'sZ

The heads and cam choice is a good one if driveability is a concern and you will definately notice the power increase. The 224 cam is probably the most popular cam for the LS based engines .You need to figure in a tune after the H/C install to get the most out of it which is around $500 give or take . You will also need to address the exhaust system if you are still using the stock exhaust to reap the benefits of those heads and cam . Headers and a catback or duals should be one of the first mods along with an aftermarket airlid . The 7.400 P/R 's are probably ok as that is what most people use , but the proper method is to install the cam and measure with an adjustable pushrod to make sure of the length you need . The rest of your parts list looks good but you could save a little cash by using a LS2 timing chain from GM for around $35 and this is a strong timing chain that works great . I can't answer about the labor rates in California so I guess you need to make a few phone calls to some shops and compare their rates . Good luck and welcome to the board !

m16a2r

thanks for the advice, got that package, hoping to get and install it soon.

WhiteHawk

That will be a nice setup. Hopefully the cam you got is on a 114+4. You can ALMOST run that cam on the stock tune.

As far as installation, I would figure $1500 + $500 for the tune. And don't get any joe blow - make sure you find a shop that does LS1's.

-Geoff

Marc 85Z28

Good advice so far.

You may want to consider a slightly more aggressive cam, something along the lines of a 228 duration. You'll make more power with it and the drivability will remain the same as the 224. If you have to abide by the CA emissions, 224 is the MAX duration you can get away with, but the tune must be near perfect.

Forget about aftermarket timing setup - they're not needed and often cause problems. Just get an LS2 chain. The money you save on it should go towards a set of LS7 lifters.

And regardless of whether or not you end up with a 224 or 228 or whatever cam, a looser torque converter should also be on that list. Yank or Precision Industries are about all you should consider, and a 3200 stall for a strict daily driver or a 3600-4000 stall for a nice weather car.

If you don't plan on milling the heads for more compression and/or run a stock thickness head gasket, chances are a 7.400" pushrod will be too short. Measure measure measure! You'll probably need a 7.425" or even a 7.050" pushrod for proper geometry and quiet operation. Most who go with a 7.4" pushrod on an aftermarket cam get the "sewing machine" noise.

m16a2r

I got 228 cam with a setup, and I also got 3600 stall installed already, also have a lid and stock ported tb so far. Only thing I'm worried about is push rod length, I hope standard once will work because that is what I ordered with heads.

WhiteHawk

Whoever sold you the heads and cam should be able to get you close on the pushrods too. I would still spend $20 for an adjustable pushrod and measure it. It is probably OK, but it is always good to know your exact preload.

-Geoff

QATransAm

Next time, don't order online, give TSP a call and place your order if you're unsure of something, they have great customer service and will help you out even if you're not ordering anything.

As long as they're not milled, standard length should be fine....or just call them and double check.

m16a2r

Well my order is on its way, ill tell you guys hows the install went and my dyno #

m16a2r

Well car got stolen today, there will be no heads and cam swap anymore, I never thought that this will happen to my car

WhiteHawk

Holy crap! Hopefully you get it back in good shape. I thought these cars were really hard to steal because of the coded key they have?

FYI, if you refuse shipment when UPS comes to deliver, it will make returning your stuff a lot easier. I can't imagine a shop would try to stick you after getting your car ripped off.

-Geoff

m16a2r

So car wasnt located yet, I guess I will never see it again, hope my full coverage insurance getting ready to sign that check to me, Im gonna get the same camaro I had but only with manual transmission.