raefon

I am still planning the build up on the 91 Corvette L98 for my 91 Camaro RS. Here is what I am looking to do from a drivetrain perspective:

BTW, the Corvette L98 has less than 20,000 miles on it.

TPIS AFR Heads
TPIS Big Mouth Intake
TPIS Large Tube Runners or SLP Runners
TPIS 52mm Throttle Body
Upgraded Oil Pump
Upgraded Fuel Pump
TPIS AFPR
SLP Headers w/Air
Cam (Still undecided...CompCams XR269HR-12 or TPIS)
Lifters, push rods, and rockers to match cam
2500 Stall for the 700R4
Tubular K-Member and Rack and Pinion


I haven't ordered any of the parts yet as I am trying to get as much input on my plans as possible. I would really like to get this right the first time.

My goal is at least 350/350 and to be driven primarily on the street. I will be maintaining all emissions equipment and plan to include suspension, chassis, brakes, and rear upgrades at some point as well.

I have been reading every TPI and Chevy performance book I can get my hands on, looking for additional insight.

Suggestions or ideas regarding this engine build-up are appreciated.

TKOPerformance

Where do I start? Are you rebuilding the shortblock too, or just adding parts to a good bottom end?

Don't use a high volume oil pump. They waste power and will starve the bottom end.

Make sure you rocker arm geometry is right.

Watch the lobe seperation angle on your cam. The computer will haev fits if there is too little. I would probably go with the TPIS cam, just because computer controlled engines are all they do.

Make sure to port match your upper intake to the throttle body and runners. Also, port match the intaek to the heads and vice versa.

raefon

I am planning to leave the bottom end intact as it is low miles and I don't expect any problems from it.

I am definitely going to talk with a tech at TPIS before I order the parts and make sure that I am getting 'matched' parts. I want to be sure everything is going to work together optimally. Also, I am pretty sure that a custom ecm program is going to be in order.

Thanks, and yes, the port matching is a must.

TKOPerformance

One area to specifically mention to them is the knock sensor. I'm not sure about the L98, but I know that LT1s have knock sensor issues when running roller rockers. Factory LT4 cars used a "knock desensitizer" unit to allow them to run roller rockers.

Should be a very fun project and a powerful street/strip motor.

1989GTATransAm

iTrader: (3)

Looks like you are leaving the "short block" alone save the cam. The stock heads most likely have 58cc combustion chambers and around 10:1 compression ratio. So if you want to maintain the compression ratio(horsepower) your AFR heads should have 58cc combustion chambers. Just something to talk to AFR about. By the way I like the flow numbers of the AFR 180 heads. They will support a lot of horsepower and still maintain good port velocity which will better match your modified TPI. Good Luck. Allen

TKOPerformance

Yeah, the AFR heads are the best you can buy for a street engine, and for a lot of race engines too. They are more expensive up front, but they make more power than anything else out there too.

When I finally go to build my next engine for my Camaro it will be wearing a set of AFRs.

CALIROCZ28

iTrader: (3)

Hey raefon, I also have a 1991 Corvette L98 in my '89 Camaro. If you need any help along the way don't hesitate. I'll be glad to let you know the headackes and obstacles I had to deal with. Maybe the process will be easier knowing what to expect and what parts won't work and what you need etc. etc.

Great project though.

CALIROCZ28@msn.com

raefon

Thanks everyone. Keep the info coming.

CALIROCZ28:
Thanks for offering up your experience. I really appreciate your generosity. I would definitely like to toss around a few ideas with you. I am at work now, but I will try to run a few things by you this weekend if you have a moment. BTW, looking at your sig, I see that you opted for the Camaro accessories. Did you consider trying to stay with the Corvette accessories?
(Nice looking install too)

Dale

CALIROCZ28

iTrader: (3)

no problem, I should have a few hours free this weekend I hope.