OK make sure that the 2 plugs in the end of the lifter galleys have the .030 holes in them.The ones about the size of a dime on the same plane as the outside of the gear abd sprocket. They provide lube for the gears and chain. If they are there make sure they aren't stopped up.
If they aren't there that is why the gear failed. Some shops aren't aware of this when they put in the new plugs,and think it is like a standard SBC.

 

those would come with my new freze plug kit would they not? if they do not have the holes in them... can i just drill the ones that are going there?

 

Yes ya can drill them but no larger than .030 thousand's.Pack your bit in grease to catch most of the shaving's and drill slow.
If ya got a generic plug kit,verses an LT1 specific kit, they would not be in there.Ya get them at GM dealer.