Need help understanding valve spring comparison

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Nov 18, 2010 | 10:56 AM

therbst

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Instructor

Joined: May 2009

Posts: 105

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From: Kimberly WI

Need help understanding valve spring comparison

Looking for some advice. As I begin loading up my basement this winter with my projects for next spring (after the snow melts) My frst project is a valve train upgrade to 1.6RR (comp cam 1016-16). In my search for diffenent options, I'm trying to understand the difference between the LT4 springs that are $39 while the springs from comp cam (26918-16) are $194. What could make the comp cam springs worth so much more? I have a 95 LT1 fully stock except for exhaust mod. New block was installed 1000 miles ago because I decided that this car was definitely a keeper

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Comp Cam springs
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Beehive™ Valve Springs: Top 1.075" O.D., .650" I.D.; Bottom 1.310" O.D., .885" I.D.
Product Representation: Actual part may vary based on configuration ordered.
Part: 26918-16
Price: $193.63Weight: 2.78 lbs FREE SHIPPING OVER $50!
Quantity:

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LT4 springs
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12495494 - Small Block Chevy LT4 Valve Spring Kit - Used On 1996 LT4 Engines, ZZ4 & Fast Burn 385 Crate Engines (16 Springs) 1.32" Diameter
(0) Reviews: Write first review
Price: $38.95

Nov 18, 2010 | 04:14 PM

vetteoz

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Joined: Jan 2004

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Quote:

Originally Posted by therbst

What could make the comp cam springs worth so much more?

The '918's are a completely different design ( beehive shape ) to reduce mass for high reving engines
See
http://speed-eng.com/store/comp-cams...00-p-7634.html

Are also good for .600 lift whereas LT4 /ZZ4 springs are only good for .525

Last edited by vetteoz; Nov 18, 2010 at 04:19 PM.

Nov 18, 2010 | 04:14 PM

Strick

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Joined: Feb 2003

Posts: 11,671

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From: Lake Wylie SC

Good question.

Nov 18, 2010 | 04:43 PM

therbst

Thread Starter

Instructor

Joined: May 2009

Posts: 105

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From: Kimberly WI

That makes sense. So the differences that you pointed out would make the cost 3-4 times more. I won't ever argue over $100 when it comes to something as crusial as the valve train, I just need to understand why. Would the Comp Cam be considered and upgrade?

Quote:

Originally Posted by vetteoz

Nov 18, 2010 | 05:35 PM

vetteoz

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Joined: Jan 2004

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Quote:

Originally Posted by therbst

. Would the Comp Cam be considered and upgrade?

Most definitely
I believe the LS beehive springs can be used with the Comp beehive retainers for cheaper $66.
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/NAL-12499224/
Similar style but not as much lift (.550 ) as the 918's

Quote:

Originally Posted by therbst

So the differences that you pointed out would make the cost 3-4 times more.

Because they are a mass production item, the LT4 / ZZ4 springs are exceptionally good value @ $40
Most basic ( non beehive ) spring sets start @ $65

Nov 18, 2010 | 07:25 PM

therbst

Thread Starter

Instructor

Joined: May 2009

Posts: 105

Likes: 3

From: Kimberly WI

Quote:

Originally Posted by vetteoz

I would guess that the Comp Cam springs having the ability for more lift will give me some growth if I ever wanted to change out cams. Thanks again for the direction that I needed.

Nov 18, 2010 | 11:14 PM

Muffin

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Joined: Jun 1999

Posts: 14,924

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From: Merritt Ils Fl

Last year someone posted a video of a valve spring working at something like 7000 rpm. I had it but it died along with my HP laptop. Maybe someone can post a link or the vid. Gives you a good look at what you buy with good springs.