I'm doing heads and cam very soon, but I'm worried I may need lifters too. I haven't torn anything down yet so I don't know how basd they are worn, but my odometer is sitting a little over 127,000 miles. Would you guys think chances are they're worn pretty bad...or do lifters not wear that much?

 

I rebuild a BBC engine last year with 160k miles on the odo and the lifters look like brand new! However, I chose not to reuse them and would recommend that you replace yours likewise. Even if they look good, I wouldn't trust them. I realize they can live a long life but why chance it with the 127k miles on yours?

I redid the cam on my Camaro a few months ago with far less mileage and installed a fresh set of Comp Lifters P/N 850-16 for about $200.

BTW, definitely replace the timing chain and sprockets. I'd suggest the GM ED timing set GM#12370835 for about $300

 

well actually, I only plan to run this setup for about 2 years, and by then I'll have my 396 LT4 ready to drop in! Which is why I think for now I'll go with the LT4 timing set. I hear Jason Cromer can get them for cheap, like $170 + shipping. Would anyone happen to have his e-mail address?

 

There is no question that the LT4 chain set is less expensive than the ED set. Once you place them next to each other and compare them, one realizes why.