I'm wondering what the weakest link would be for a high-rev build? I was noticing that the CTS-V Racing lifters are advertised as good to 7-8k rpm which is what led me to the question.
Assuming a totally stock bottom end, would it even be worthwhile to look at valvetrain upgrades if the goal is 7k and beyond?

 

i believe you need to upgrade your rod bolts also..

 

Rod bolts are a DEFINITE upgrade. switch to some ARP 2000 bolts for that. Also not too sure how well stock rods will handle it.

 

I have been shifting at 7k for 1.5years without any upgrades and i have no problems.... No rod bolts, no nothing... I don't think they are necessary... Now lighter valve train components (Ti retainers) are a definite plus.

 

Damn, that's nice to hear because I want to spin this engine way up there when I get my cam swapped.

 

agree with corey, its not so much the rod bolts that let go or give, the lighter the valvetrain the higher you can rev, i floated a valve at 75-7800 rpms with my stock rockers, i shift at 7200, i reccomend REV valves theyre rather cheap and highly used, though im going with enconel/titanium, the new setup will be as light as possible, the only thing is i'll be boarderlined on the rockers, i talked to my builder and he spoke with a few companies and its been mentioned YT's will break beyond the rpms i plan on pushing, im looking into Jesels but they'll have to waite as the cost will be 1200-1500 a set


but anyway to answer your question get the valvetrain light and you can spin the motor pass 7k easy