I have a 95 Z28 and originally planned to do only a heads and cam package (including ported heads, Comp 305 cam, RR's, lifters, timing chain, headers etc). I removed the engine from the car to do the work, so it is now sitting on an engine stand in my garage with the heads, cam, and oil pan removed.

The pistons, rods, crank, and oil pump are still in the block. I'm waiting for my parts to arrive and started to wonder it I should go ahead and dis-assemble the rest of the engine and have everything checked/cleaned up, and then re-assemble with new rings and bearings. The front cam bearing is showing some copper on the lower left surface which is apparently typical of the LT1. It seems I should at least replace this one cam bearing. The others look fine as far as I can tell using a mirror.

Anyway, I thought I'd ask what your opinions are. Put it back together w/o touching the bottom end, or check everything out while I have the opportunity? I actually expect the bottom end to be OK. The car and engine have only 38,000 miles, although that includes some serious 'track' miles.

Jim

 

Wow, a 9 year old car with only 38k miles. You don't drive that thing much do you? Anyway, it couldn't hurt to have everything checked out if you're worried about it. I would drop it off at a reputable machine shop and have them verify that everything is within spec. They can replace all the bearings and put it back together and you're only out a couple hours labor and three hundred bucks or so for labor and gaskets/bearings. If you're not real concerned about it, then just put everything back together and bash on it for another 38k miles or until something breaks.

 

W/ 38k Id mod away. no need for a rebuild unless thats what u wanna do