I'm going with the electric water pump on my 97 lt1, am i going to have to spend over $200 to get a good timing set

 

Cloyes "True Roller" 9-3145. You may have to clearence the timing cover just a little but for $70-$80 you can't beat it (as long as you are using an elect. water pump.).

 

are they durable enough to use with the 306 cam and ex612 springs, i think i looked this one up before and it didn't specify that it could be used with a 97 lt1

 

It's a double chain. Plenty strong enough. I am using one on my motor with a slightly larger cam then the 306 and same springs. It will not show up in any parts listing for your car because it cannot be used with the stock water pump.

 

is it a good fit to the opti? i've worked on all types of engines but this one, i know i've asked some odd questions on this site but i'd rather be sure!

 

also what should i set the cam at...0 degree or 4 retard, i will be running a 3200 rpm stall and cc306 with headers.

 

0 degree