[Z06] LS7 Build!
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 766
Likes: 42
From: Laguna Beach CA
LS7 Build!
My LS7 went south after a Jesel rocker arm failed and sent aluminum shavings through the motor. I won't go into the details of the failure, but Jesel has been fair in our dealings. The previous setup was forged, with a small cam and CNC'd RPM heads. It laid down 530/490 with a full stock C6Z stock exhaust (all four cats) and C5 TI catback.
Now onto the fun part, the new setup!
EPS Cam 236/252 113+4
MSD Intake - porting to be done
LG Super Pro 1 7/8 w/cats
Heads already flow 400cfm and were decked for a bump in compression. I will be replacing the heavy REV SS valves for lighter Ferrea hollow SS valve. Jesel Mohawk rockers will be going back on.
I had an ACT Twin disc, but purchased a Mantic Single w ER2, that's the only questionable component only because I'm not sure if it will handle the torque. Mantic stated capacity says it should be okay, we will see. It was a good value and had great reviews. I just don't feel like spending $1800 on a clutch.
This setup should be killer! I'll keep you posted, it will be at least three weeks before the Z is back on the road and then a few weeks of sorting out and breaking in before she hits the rollers.
Now onto the fun part, the new setup!
EPS Cam 236/252 113+4
MSD Intake - porting to be done
LG Super Pro 1 7/8 w/cats
Heads already flow 400cfm and were decked for a bump in compression. I will be replacing the heavy REV SS valves for lighter Ferrea hollow SS valve. Jesel Mohawk rockers will be going back on.
I had an ACT Twin disc, but purchased a Mantic Single w ER2, that's the only questionable component only because I'm not sure if it will handle the torque. Mantic stated capacity says it should be okay, we will see. It was a good value and had great reviews. I just don't feel like spending $1800 on a clutch.
This setup should be killer! I'll keep you posted, it will be at least three weeks before the Z is back on the road and then a few weeks of sorting out and breaking in before she hits the rollers.
Last edited by jd86L98; Dec 31, 2016 at 10:51 AM.
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 766
Likes: 42
From: Laguna Beach CA
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 2,152
Likes: 239
From: Northern VA
I'll be watching your build closely. I just installed an LS-7 in to my Z. My motor was already built when I bought it and run on an engine stand. It's got WCCH heads (390 cfm)but just stock LS-7 intake and little 1.75 headers (same exhaust I ran on my LS-6). It's currently getting tuned and my tuner said he was surprised that my cam was installed in my combo (232/244 .630/.631 112). He said with LS-7s he likes to see a good bigger spread on the intake and exhaust duration and says 114 lobe sep is much better than my 112 with a 6spd. He pretty much described the exact cam you are using so I'll be interested to see where you end up. I know my intake and exhaust is holding me back but I don't want to spend any more $ at this point. I just want it running well. My numbers are close to what you have now.
Good luck!!!
Good luck!!!
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 766
Likes: 42
From: Laguna Beach CA
I'll be watching your build closely. I just installed an LS-7 in to my Z. My motor was already built when I bought it and run on an engine stand. It's got WCCH heads (390 cfm)but just stock LS-7 intake and little 1.75 headers (same exhaust I ran on my LS-6). It's currently getting tuned and my tuner said he was surprised that my cam was installed in my combo (232/244 .630/.631 112). He said with LS-7s he likes to see a good bigger spread on the intake and exhaust duration and says 114 lobe sep is much better than my 112 with a 6spd. He pretty much described the exact cam you are using so I'll be interested to see where you end up. I know my intake and exhaust is holding me back but I don't want to spend any more $ at this point. I just want it running well. My numbers are close to what you have now.
Good luck!!!
Good luck!!!
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 766
Likes: 42
From: Laguna Beach CA
I was looking for a C6Z when I came across my C5Z, I am very happy with my decision. The LS7 in the C5 is fantastic and I guess somewhat unique. However, my car is highly modified including the C6Z rear cradle and wide body, definitely not your standard C5Z. It gets the job done!!
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Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 766
Likes: 42
From: Laguna Beach CA
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 766
Likes: 42
From: Laguna Beach CA
I ended up switching to the FAST; the MSD was going to require cutting into the firewall. I did test fit the LS7 fuel rail on the MSD and it didn't seem to need spacers. I have the Siemens 60lb injectors.
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 766
Likes: 42
From: Laguna Beach CA
Update
Update: Motor was broken in on a Dynapak dyno and tuned. Once the rings were seated an initial pull was made, 595rwhp 555 ft/lbs and the torque comes in very early. Tuner indicated stock TI exhaust was holding her back on the top end. Finishing final tweaks and working out a few bugs. I have not driven the car or taken delivery. I will provide a full review middle of January. From what I understand Dynapak's are a little optimistic, but even so I'm very happy when the numbers and power curve. Can't wait to drive it!!
Last edited by jd86L98; Dec 27, 2016 at 02:00 PM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 2,152
Likes: 239
From: Northern VA
Congrats! That's going to be a monster!! Mine made 549/546 on ECS's dynapack. I'm dealing with wacky knock sensor issues pulling timing on mine all of sudden. They sure are fun and I love folk's expressions when I pop the hood and they notice the stock LS-7 coil covers 