89Convert

question....I need to replace the valve cover gaskets so I thought I would get some 1.7 rockers and new springs...sooo:
1. How many more rpms will I notice in the powerband (and where)?
2. How difficult is the install?
3. Will it effect my passing emissions? (all other equip is in place...dang IL)
4. Is it worth the cash/trouble?...given that I have basic mods, intake, cat-back flows, pullies, and 3.73 in the mail (cant wait for it to get here!!)

mdvaldosta

Its an easy install, and you won't really have any change in where the powerband is - only more power while your in it.

89Convert

how much power? how about emissions?

nemethjames1

i think your ok with emissions.... and dont expect more than maybe 10hp..... maybe more maybe less... in that area though

roundman

changing the valve springs with the heads on the car will require you to have an air compressor with a adapter fitting to allow you to put air pressure into the cylinder as you change the springs or else the valve will fall back down into the cylinder. you have to do one valve at a time and position the cylinder at top dead center and you may have to put a wrench on the crankshaft to keep the air pressure from trying to turn the motor over while you are trying to change the springs. as old as your's is, I would recommend you just pull the heads and send them out for a good valve job that includes installing new springs unless you really want to go to all the trouble for little benefit.

nemethjames1

what is the advantages to getting new springs? thought they didnt make a diff, unless changing cam? thought just changing the roller rockers was about all you wanted to do with stock cam?

89Convert

good point roundman...Ill do the x-pipe and headers first...boy I wish I didnt have to pass emissions...pesky/expensive/restrictive cats.....

roundman

springs wear out due to metal fatigue over time due to the constant cycling they are exposed to. in a racing application with high lift cams and high pressure springs, they tend to break which is why Pro Stock racers check valve spring pressures after every run and replace any showing weak pressures. on a stock set-up, worn springs don't close the valves as quickly as they should and allow the valves to float easier at a lower rpm than new ones too.

nemethjames1

cool, thanks roundman