Roller Rockers

[TooFast]

OK, I searched the forum and could not find anything about this, sorry in advance if it's an old question. I have seen numerous adds for performance enhancing kits that include headers, axle back exhaust, intakes, etc. but they also include 1.85-1 roller rockers. Do the rockers really make a big difference on a stock LS-1, and how difficult to install? The last time I installed or adjusted rockers was on an L-82 and the covers had to be off, with the engine running, with oil getting all over everything. Is the process still the same or is the valve train different on the LS-1, I'm just not that familiar with it. Thanks for any input help on this.

Mark

 

[Mr. Lucky]

If you have a valve spring compressor tool, they are pretty easy to install. Everything is right up top in plain sight, once you remove the valve covers. I'm not convinced that higher ratio rockers (1.7 is stock) are the way to go though. It does effectively increase your lift, but the geometry is wrong. I had stock ratio Harlan Sharp rollers in my 402 build, and I'd do it again.

Good luck with whatever you decide.

 

[TooFast]

Thanks, don't know if I am going to do anything, some of the rockers I have seen say no spring change is necessary, was just curious if anyone had direct experience with the mod...appreciate the feedback.

 

[Hib Halverson]

The comment above about the "geometry" being "wrong" is, in fact, wrong.

There is no inherent geometry problem with aftermarket higher-ratio rocker arms unless either 1) they are installed improperly or 2) it's a very poorly designed part.

In general, the aftermarket high-ratio rockers for LS1s and LS6es, if purchased from a reputable source--Comp Cams, Yella Terra, SLP, etc.--will not have geometry issues.

If you can find a set of the Crane "Quick Lift" 1.8s for LS1 buy them because that was an outstanding product. Even though Crane has gone tits-up, there still might be a few sets of them sitting on shelves somewhere.

What one does need to consider with high-ratio rockers is they increase increase valvetrain loadings and thus somewhat reduce the valvetrain limiting speed. This may or may not be a problem, depending on valve spring condition and the point at which your rev limiter enables.

Do high ratio rockers work? You betcha. I put a set of 1.8s on an LS6 and gained 17hp.

 

[TooFast]

Thanks for the information Hib.