Long term test

Hi
I was wondering if those who converted their cars to LT1 power more than 5 years ago have any long term problems that have arisen after many miles of motoring. What parts wear first, has anything failed and what symptoms should one look out for? Also what would you do different the second or thrid time around?
Q

I have no problems to report; I did a full rebuild 5 years ago.
If you are going with a used engine then all the typical problems could pop up; bearings, worn pistons, seals, gaskets, carbon build up.....
Problem areas on a used LT are few; check the gasket seal on the intake to block, replace the OptiSpark (Vented GM New is Best) and put new sensors in.

What are you starting with?

Hi
It's a mixed bag. I have a corvette '95 LT1 which I have recently acquired and it has only completed around 60,000 miles so I'm not intending to do anything to it.
The conversions kit, on the other hand, was imported from Renegade around 8 years ago (it's been sat in my loft for all this time) and I was wondering if it is still a good one to use - not that I can afford to import another one.
The car is an '89 turbo with 155,000 miles on the clock and it runs very well at the moment. Since the turbo engine produces 250bhp in stock form and the LT1 300bhp then I'm hpoing that I won't need to do much to the car except for maybe the front springs.
Q
(UK member)

I would say the extra weight of the iron block and the hard stops will accelerate the strut mounts collapsing.

what do you suggest and how has everyone else coped withh this?
Q

Brand new strut mounts or camber plates with a thrust washer design

So everyone who has an LT1 conversion will have to strenfgthen their top strut mounts? I've not heard of this before. Also what are camber plates?
Q

That was just my latest experience. The rebound caps were sticking out like 3/8" from the ring stops

I don't think it's a hugely common occurence...some cars just need work in different areas than others.

You've got nothing to worry about--get to work, then deal with issues as they arise! You'll be done before you know it.

Agreed, the biggest issue with the 944 is the lack of 4 cylinders

If the engine has 15 year old seals and gaskets, I would suggest changing them while the engine is out.
The same goes for your 22 year old rubber parts; some might need attention.
The LT1 adds ~32 Kg to the front of a Turbo 944, not really worth talking about......