Modify block for OEM roller set up in L82?
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,168
Likes: 17
From: Iowa
Modify block for OEM roller set up in L82?
I have a 80 L82 and I want to run a roller cam in it. The motor needs rebuilt anyway. Can the block be machined to accept the OEM roller set up? I would like to keep the block with the car for obvious reasons, and I'm not sure about the after market roller lifters as far as longevity. They seem more like race pieces, and racing motors are rebuilt frequently. The GM roller cam set up is darn near bullet proof as far as I can tell. Any input about modifing the block or expience with running after market roller lifters is apreciated. Thanks, Dave
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,168
Likes: 17
From: Iowa
Thanks Mike. So I guess the question is how reliable are the retrofit roller lifters. I plan on using this car to travel and as a DD when the weather is nice, so I plan on putting some miles on it and enjoying it.
Race Director
Joined: May 2005
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From: Millington Illinois
St. Jude Donor '08-'09
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FYI, it can be done. You have to use a shorter roller lifter from one of the V6 engines and grind or machine the block around the lifter bores until the dogbones will fit. I've seen it done by grinding but best would be to chuck the block into a milling machine. You also have to drill and tap threads into the middle of the lifter valley to hold the retainer.
Doesn't make much sense though when there are good aftermarket lifter setups.
Doesn't make much sense though when there are good aftermarket lifter setups.
Safety Car
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 3,726
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From: Seattle Washington
I also have used the Crower Hyd Roller Lifters for the past 20 years or so with no complaints. In reality when the General went to Hyd Rollers they had more waranty issues than they did with Flat Tappets. I however would never even consider building another Engine with out them. If for no other reason one less thing to think about at the Engine Startup. I would stick with one of the big Name Brands and You should be fine. I'm sure there are China Lifters to be had by now.