C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

do i need valve shims?

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Old Jan 17, 2006 | 01:55 PM
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redbullapril23's Avatar
redbullapril23
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Default do i need valve shims?

hey guys im putting in a hotcam, comp cams springs 986-16, 1.6 gm rrs
comp retainers, lt4 keys.. etc in my 1996 lt1. i recall reading somewhere that the lt4 had shims. now since i went with aftermarket springs do i still need the springs to add extra tension to the springs?

and the dowel pin on the hotcam should come at what length i need it to be at... correct? because isnt it the same length for 1996 LTx's because of the opti they use?


thanks your friend
Sean
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Old Jan 17, 2006 | 01:57 PM
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The springs should be set at a specific height(as per the manufacturer) to give a specific open and closed pressure. Shimming is normally needed. The only way to know id to measure each and every valve spring seat to retainer distance.
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Old Jan 17, 2006 | 01:59 PM
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Originally Posted by Pete K
The springs should be set at a specific height(as per the manufacturer) to give a specific open and closed pressure. Shimming is normally needed. The only way to know id to measure each and every valve spring seat to retainer distance.
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Old Jan 17, 2006 | 02:03 PM
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sounds good. im takin the heads off sometime this week or next and takin them in to do in class..
should i buy the lt4 shims?
thanks your friend
Sean


its says height is 1.78" for intake and exhaust valves on lt1/4 once installed.
so am i measureing from the bottom of the Seat to the top of the spring?

Last edited by redbullapril23; Jan 17, 2006 at 02:12 PM.
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Old Jan 17, 2006 | 02:27 PM
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You will be measuring the space that the spring takes up. That is, from the top of the seat to the bottom of the retainer. Avoid using the gold shims. When theyshedmetal(and they all do), it shows up in the oil as gold glitter. This resembles bearing material. It makes me nervous every time I see it in the oil.
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Old Jan 17, 2006 | 02:46 PM
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http://www.cranecams.com/?show=faq&id=5

thanks Pete. found a pic of it here.
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