I will be taking a one-week vacation next week to install a
cam and related equipment. My car has 28,000 miles and has
Comp Pro Magnum 1.6:1 rockers, 7/16 studs, chromoly pushrods,
and guideplates. The rest is stock except for bolt-ons. Based
on my last dyno run I am assuming that my opti is fine. I have
included a laundry list of stuff so let me know if I have
forgotten anything or if you recommend something different.

Here is everything laid out on a table.

Cam Change Stuff

Parts List
Crane 104227 Cam (210/224 511/553 112); Comp-R lifters; valve
springs, retainers, locks, seats, seals (note 1); GMPP extreme
duty timing set; cam change gaskets (GM); oil pan gasket (just
in case); fuel injector o-ring kits (GM); exhaust manifold
gaskets (note 2); NGK TR-55 plugs; Accel extreme 9000 wires

Other items
GM engine assembly lube; GM reg-antisieze; GM o2 sensor antisieze;
GM intake sealant; Kent-Moore LT1 crank hub remover; fuel line tool;
valve spring height mic; dial indicator w/base; degree wheel

Note 1: I will decide on the valve spring install once both options
are fitted and measured. I have Isky 235-Ds and Comp 26915 beehives
with related hardware. What I don't use will be sold. I am leaning
towards the beehives unless the installed height is less than 1.75".

Note 2: I have port matched a set of manifolds that will be swapped
with the original stock manifolds. Lots of grinding but came out
really nice. Goal is 320+ rwhp through cast iron.

List of activities
- go to AC shop and evacuate freon; cap off system components
- put car up on jackstands (as high as possible)
- remove rear end and take to gear shop for 3:73 install
- remove exhaust system
- follow GM service manual procedure for cam replacement

Miscellaneous
- check cam w/degree wheel for correctness
- set valve lash at 1/16 turn

Questions
- anything different from the factory service manual procedure?
- any words of wisdom regarding dropping the front edge of the
oil pan?
- will I have dipstick issues when removing the exhaust manifolds?
- any tips/tricks regarding draining the coolant?
- HPP+: I have their cam cartridge, should I use it or run the
regular HPP program? or try both? (custom tune is planned later)
- should I stick w/ TR-55 plugs or go with Rapidfire #14, or?
- any words of wisdom regarding first start procedure and break in?