I have the parts on order for my conversion to vortec heads/roller cam/4brl. My current engine is a '97 5.7L 2brl K series serial # (non-vortec). I have the Merc service manual (#17 I think) which covers both mid-90's non-vortec and the first generation of gen+ vortec engines. Since this was the first version of the Service manual to cover vortecs, I suspect there has been some updates or tech bulletins that I don't have privy to. I would appreciate any update knowldge/input.
The main areas I want to focus on are the assembly procedures. I have broken it into these main areas/questions:
- Vortec Head Install/Torque: I am using stock GM assembled Vortec Heads, stock GM composite head gasket, and new GM head bolts with sealer. The gen+ use a rotational spec vs ft lb spec. Have there been any changes to it? Any additional sealer needed than what comes on the new GM head bolts?
- Intake Manifold/Torque: Using Edelbrock 2116 Alum Intake, GM vortec Intake manifold gasket, and ARP vortec intake bolts (SS). This has a new rotation spec too, along with sealer on specific intake bolts. Does it hurt anything to use sealer on all of the bolts? Outside of the front and back galley, does sealer get used around any of the water passages. Manual doesn't indicate to do that.
- Composite Timing Cover Install: Using new GM timing cover and stock 6 3/4" harmonic balencer. This balencer has has advance timing marks on it, but is the old size. Newer vortecs come with an 8" balencer. Not sure what the differences are, but believe I can stay with what I have. Composite cover is not covered in my book, so need torque spec, and sequence. Also, if any gasket sealer is needed outside of the corners where the oil pan gasket is.
- Lifter Adjustment: The manual has both static and dynamic adjustment procedures. I assume only one is needed, and will go with static. One full turn after 0 lash.
Thanks for any info / updates you can provide. Parts should be here by the end of the week. Hopefully the weather will warm-up as well.
The main areas I want to focus on are the assembly procedures. I have broken it into these main areas/questions:
- Vortec Head Install/Torque: I am using stock GM assembled Vortec Heads, stock GM composite head gasket, and new GM head bolts with sealer. The gen+ use a rotational spec vs ft lb spec. Have there been any changes to it? Any additional sealer needed than what comes on the new GM head bolts?
- Intake Manifold/Torque: Using Edelbrock 2116 Alum Intake, GM vortec Intake manifold gasket, and ARP vortec intake bolts (SS). This has a new rotation spec too, along with sealer on specific intake bolts. Does it hurt anything to use sealer on all of the bolts? Outside of the front and back galley, does sealer get used around any of the water passages. Manual doesn't indicate to do that.
- Composite Timing Cover Install: Using new GM timing cover and stock 6 3/4" harmonic balencer. This balencer has has advance timing marks on it, but is the old size. Newer vortecs come with an 8" balencer. Not sure what the differences are, but believe I can stay with what I have. Composite cover is not covered in my book, so need torque spec, and sequence. Also, if any gasket sealer is needed outside of the corners where the oil pan gasket is.
- Lifter Adjustment: The manual has both static and dynamic adjustment procedures. I assume only one is needed, and will go with static. One full turn after 0 lash.
Thanks for any info / updates you can provide. Parts should be here by the end of the week. Hopefully the weather will warm-up as well.
I don't like beaming in for a couple of questions and then beaming out. I like to hang out long enough to provide back some help in appeciation.
