1969 Chevrolet Corvette camshaft

HELZAIM

MEMBER
1969 CHEVROLET CORVETTE
7.4L
V8
2WD
MANUAL
66,000 MILES

I recently purchased a 69 stingray. It has a 454 big block engine. One of cam lobes and a lifter are worn. I plan on having the cam shaft, lifters, and springs replaced. Currently it has a drag racing comp cam 11-601-5. What do you recommend as an alternative cam lifters kit for street driving? I was told that drag racing cams like the one in the vehicle require routine maintenance and result in frequent mechanical problems. I like the way the engine sounds with the current cam. Since I only drive it around 100 miles/month, can I get away with putting in the same cam+lifters without running into too many problems down the road?

Thanks.

1 Reply

HMAC300

MECHANIC
48,601 POSTS

You can replace the cam with an upgraded one but contact one of the cam manufacturers for best choice they can help you out as to type of driving etc. Whenever you replace a cam ALWAYS replace the lifters along with it. Then make sure to use cam lube or graphite lube on loves and lifter bottoms. When you start it up try to prelube the engine by turning the oil pump as the dist will be out anyhow. Then when you start it up it is imperative to run the engine at 2000 rpm for about 3 minutes to give the cam and lifters a quick breakin. Otherwise you will have the same problem after a little while. Also if you have the money for it put a preluber on your engine summit sells them and they take about a quart of oil so when you go to start they prelube your motor instead of waiting for the oil pump.