Hi guys, can I retrofit an old flat tappet cam/lifters into a TPI block? Do I just use the old style timing set and I'm good to go? Yes it is a dumb idea to lose the advantage of a roller cam, but I have a very low mileage nice flat tappet cam and lifter set I am going to toss in the 305 turd my brother has when I put my new roller cam in my 327.

 

Yes you can ,Many flat tappet cams in roller blocks from the factory.

 

Yes. It is not stupid either. The benifit of the roller is high rpm power and gas mileage. Your tpi or tbi isnt a high reving motor so you wouldnt see any hp advantages and would spend way more money. And the gas mileage loss would be relatively unnoticable. You will need to change the timing chain to the olser style as the 3 holes wouldnt line up with the new cam. Also when you change the lifters you will need to buy the old style longer pushrods. I did it.

 

It's not a tpi or tbi motor. It is carbed and is going to make peak hp around 5500-6000 with the cam that I will be using. I know a roller would make noticeably more power due to the much better lobe profile but this is a cost reducing choice, since I will not be keeping a 305 in the TA for that long anyway. Thanks

 

I had a TPI motor running a nice flat tappet awhile ago.
It had 226,000 on the motor when I departed with it..

You shouldnt have a problem, It should be a nice runner!

 

I have one in my 89 gta,when i did my rebuild money was really tight so i went flat tappet.Plus they sound alot better even with less lift...

 

They sound better because they are very dirty at lower rpms. I changed my mind and am going to use a roller, there is no point in me saving money and using an inferior cam. Thanks guys.