Started collecting my parts for cam swap. Decided to go with the xfi 280( which a member here was kind enough to sell me). Also picked up some hardened push rods. Just put in order for dual valve springs. Still looking for good deal on some 1.6rrs nsa ( going with guide plates). Not changing out the lifters, since they are in good working order, and it seems that is pretty norm to use them in a cam swap. What are some other items I should look at picking up. Time frame for total collection is till mid March.

 

Of course you need intake gaskets, timing cover and water pump gaskets - redo all the seals in your timing cover - they come with the WP and timing cover gaskets in a kit, get some Right Stuff which comes in a cheeze whiz can for sealing the china walls back up, maybe a new water pump or opti if your stuff is old, - you might want to get some ARP rocker studs since the tops of the stockers aren't flat (or get yours machined flat if you stay with 3/8s), you might consider the tools you need for removing/installing the harmonic balancer since that is a bonafide bitch to do. You may end up letting the refrigerant out of your AC unless you are willing to bend your lines and shove the condenser aside (or go without AC), good time to change your antifreeze if you haven't done that in years... Hope your front cam bearing isn't all worn out.

 

Also get your intake manifold throttle body holes opened up if you are going to get a 58mm throttlebody. I also replaced my upper and lower radiator hoses because they were the orginals. New valve seals are a good idea also.

 

That cam is bigger than what I run, I would discourage that much duration on a stock shortblock. If you believe Comps 2000-6000 range on that cam you are going to be badly disappointed, the only thing that will keep that cam from wanting high 6000s is going to be stock heads choking it. Don't believe me on the rpm range stop and compare it to the stock cam and how near 6000rpm that runs with good springs and 1.6s.

XFI lobes are designed specifically to work with beehive springs, you might figure out a combination of dual that works but if you put it together and it is soft at high rpms you should think back to this.
People have made the mistake of thinking they can pick a dual with comparable pressure but it doesn't work that way.
That said Comp's own spring recommendations are often a bit wrong due to the previously mentioned wild inaccuracy of the rpm ranges they post.

 

Which direction on Beehives would you think I should go? With Comps, but at higher spring rate?