Thanks, NJ. Yeah, I planned on starting a project thread and taking lots of pics since my bf and I are doing all the work (except the machining part obviously). But I need parts first...

 

Machine honing and boring is a pain in the ***. Make sure the tech doing it knows what the hell he's doing. I'd deck the heads about .020 as well to bump CR a bit and still be able to use stock length pushrods.

As far as lifters go, don't bother with OE-R. Just get OE type lifters and call it a day. Cam can be specced to your application or you can use an off the shelf grind. If you just want a mild cam, the GT1 from ZZP would be a good choice for you.

I would go through and replace all the pulleys as well when you do this. Also get 105# or LS6 springs to go with your cam along with new locks and retainers.

And I would replace all ignition parts along with vital sensors (O2 and MAF being my main concerns).

 

Thanks Kal, I'll look into the stuff you listed for me. I appreciate it!

 

Sorry. I was trying to be realistic and helpful. If you have already looked into all options then great. Good luck on your rebuild. I'm sure it will be great.

 

some of the aspects of going into the machine work are going to include the block being hot tanked, new freeze plugs, new valve seals (and guides if needed), and the valves will be evaluated at that point. i dont see the need for a valve job at this time because other than the damn p0306, there are no signs of valve train issues. that will be investigated as its pulled apart. they will align hone the block if needed. it has been overheated at least once, possibly more, so im expecting some warpage. i did want them taking a bit off though to bump the cr.

if sticking with a stock cam (which is likely), should i still replace the springs and retainers? i planned on lifters as that may be issue and do make some noise. also the oil pump will be replaced too

 

also, are the head bolts torque to yield? and i was also looking at a master rebuild kit for the 95-97 fwd 3.8, and it includes a timing chain tensioner. will her engine have this?