I'm finally getting a cam It's a Comp Cams 216/220 .525/.532 114LSA I picked up in the classifieds. I've decided to go with the LS6 springs because I've heard that the 918s were loud. Do I need new retainers? Will there be any "slop" with the stock ones? I don't want it to sound like a sewing machine.

 

Also, do I need new push rods? What size?

 

The 918's arent really loud in a sense. Its just that the LS6 springs are a bit more forgiving when it comes to heat cycles and they dont break as often or wear out as quick. Im almost sure both the LS6's and the 918's had pretty dam close seat pressures. You dont need retainers at all. But you can get titaniums if you want to. Gets rod of alot of weight on the rocker side of the valve spring. You dont have to change pushrods but I would while your in there. The stockers are weak pieces of poop. After the cam install, to get valvetrain gemoetry back to near stock numbers. A 7.430 rod should be used. Comp actually makes a 7.425" rod that will work fine. Thunders rods that they sell share the same length too.

 

I just got done with my LS6 spring swap, I used the factory retainers since they are the same. I replaced my valve springs because the orginals had 260,000 miles on them. You can pick up a set of LS6 spring for $53 from SDPC.

 

I Have The 216/220 Cam Been Having It For 3 Years Love It I Use Com 918 Cause I Turn My Motor Up High.and Seat Pressure Is More On A 918 Also It Will Lope If The Tune Allows It To.the Lower The Idle The More It Will Lope.
If U Can Afford To Change The Push Rods Do It.

 

Use the stock retainers, just get you a couple of extra keepers, for when you go Jesus where did that keeper go. LOL! Get a good set of strong pushrods to go in there while you have it apart. With the lift of the cam, and the new springs, it will give a light tapping noise, but you can not hear it in the cab.