[Z06] Upgrade the LS6 Push Rods ?

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May 15, 2011 | 02:16 PM

ZeeOSix

Thread Starter

Le Mans Master

Joined: Mar 2002

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From: PNW

Upgrade the LS6 Push Rods ?

I'm going to install a set of PAC 1518 valve springs to replace the OEM springs on my '02 Z06. I'm planning on leaving the cam and rockers stock. Just wondering if it would be worth installing a good set of aftermarket push rods while I'm in there swapping the springs? A set can be had for around $120 (Comp Cams chrome-moly).

The PAC 1518 springs will only increase the full open pressure slightly from the stock 294 lbs to 302 lbs with the stock cam and rockers. The closed valve spring pressure is higher with the PAC 1518 (90 lbs stock vs 130 lbs with PAC 1518), but the push rods only really care about the max full open loads.

Has anyone ever had any issues with the stock push rods with the stock valve train setup that would warrant them to be upgraded?

Also, I'm assuming aftermarket push rods are "drop in" parts that will mate up with the stock lifters and rockers?

From what I'm seeing, the stock push rod length is 7.400" ... correct?

May 15, 2011 | 02:26 PM

youngrigo

Pro

Joined: Jan 2011

Posts: 648

Likes: 3

From: Bay Area CA

Go to summit racing and you can pick up a set of Trick Flow chrome-moly for about $89... Yes you will need the 7.4

May 15, 2011 | 02:43 PM

MTPZ06

Team Owner

Joined: Dec 2008

Posts: 35,874

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From: Honolulu HI

While you're at it, you should pick up some new valve stem seals, valve locks, and titanium retainers.

May 15, 2011 | 03:01 PM

ZeeOSix

Thread Starter

Le Mans Master

Joined: Mar 2002

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From: PNW

Quote:

Originally Posted by MTPZ06

While you're at it, you should pick up some new valve stem seals, valve locks, and titanium retainers.

I'm definitely going to get a new set of GM valve stem seals also. I don't think upgrading to titanium retainers would be worth the extra money on a stock valve train ... they are pretty expensive.

May 15, 2011 | 05:53 PM

ZeeOSix

Thread Starter

Le Mans Master

Joined: Mar 2002

Posts: 5,955

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From: PNW

I've got a question for the pushrod gurus. I notice that some pushrods are designed to be "used with guide plates" and some are not.

I'm assuming I would need pushrods designed for "use with guide plates" if used on an LS6? What's the difference between pushrods designed for use with guide plates as apposed to not?

Some are also listed as "tapered" or not. I'm assuming the LS6 uses non-tapered pushrods?

May 15, 2011 | 09:10 PM

Paul 75 L82

Le Mans Master

Joined: Dec 2000

Posts: 5,245

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From: Blue Ridge Georgia

Quote:

Originally Posted by MTPZ06

While you're at it, you should pick up some new valve stem seals, valve locks, and titanium retainers.

I agree.

May 16, 2011 | 02:28 AM

skyavonee

Melting Slicks

Joined: Jul 2010

Posts: 3,355

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From: Los Angeles

Quote:

Originally Posted by ZeeOSix

I'm definitely going to get a new set of GM valve stem seals also. I don't think upgrading to titanium retainers would be worth the extra money on a stock valve train ... they are pretty expensive.