This spring I'm gonna go with the HOT Cam kit, replace the water pump, and I'm also gonna do the Opti Swap becuase my non-vented one crapped out at the end of the summer last year. I do have a few questions...

1. Stock Timing Chain vs. LT4 Extreme Duty - Why should I upgrade? I don't hear of people snapping timing chains too often. Is this more for people who have higher reving engines?

2. Are there any special modifcation that need to be made to install an electric WP? I may throw in the few extra bucks to put in an electric and I get the impression it is not a direct swap. What else is required.

3. What kind of assembly lube (if any) should I use on the cam? What kind of "break-in" procedure is required for a cam?

4. Should I replace the pushrods while I'm at it?

Thanks!

 

Well since you need a new waterpump and your opti crapped out, i would do the following.

Buy a vented 95^ Opti, its harness, vaccum lines and a 95 timing cover. Since you need a waterpump, (stock about $100) i would purchase an electrical unit (I have a Heavy Duty MEz, $220, standard - $200).....now this gives you an option to go to a Full Double Roller timing chain set-up, (I have a Cloyes Double roller 9-3145 from summit), this is much better and cheaper than the LT4 Extreme. (Cloyes = $85, LT4 Extreme Duty $250+). You can eliminate the cam gear that drives the waterpump this way, free up some HP. As for the pushrods, I believe 94's have hardened rods, which are more than enough for your application, just check if they are straight.

For the MEZ, all you have to do is install the Fans a little lower. Many will tell you that you need to cutaway at the shroud, but you can just file away at the mounting points until you are clear. Installation is straightforward, you have punch out the "waterblades" drive, and install a freeze plug in its place. the instructions are clear cut and everything is provided for you.

The hotcam kit will provide you with assembly lube, and there is no break in period for a hydraulic roller camshaft.

E-mail me if you need additional information.

 

Take your time putting the cam in dont knock the cam bearings, after every thing is installed let the motor rum for 20 minutes and then change the oil. Take it easy for a couple hundred miles so every thing seals up right. In the new GMHTP they showed that they have after mraket timing chains for non vented cars.

 

I second the elec pump and cloyes, the cloyes is a nice peice and the price pump plus chain is only a little more than the extreme timing chain. Advice? Take your time, it all does fit Also if it is in the way take it out! It takes more time to work around something then it does to just remove it

 

Where can I get the Cloyes system? Is it a chain drive or a direct-gear drive system?

 

Part no. is 9-3145. I got mine from JEGS, Summit has it to.