Basic Question - Install Time ?

[Intrepidman]

Hey guys, I'm just wondering how long it takes to install a cam in an ls1. A local mechanic quoted me 10-11 hours...that seems a bit much to me.

While I'm asking, what kind of time should a reputable shop be able to do a complete head/cam package install in?

Not having the garage or tools to tackle it myself, I have to budget for labour before I start buying parts.

[Mr. Luos]

Done correctly with the proper tools and someone that knows what they are doing...

6-10 hours in your own garage.
Could be quicker...but not likely for a first timer.

[Intrepidman]

I'm definetly having a pro do the install...I'm just trying to find a place that will do it for a fair price.
At $95 per hour you have to shop around a bit, but at the same time I don't want to take it to a guy who says he can do it in half the time it should fairly take...better done right then done fast.

[Mr. Luos]

Good luck.

Most shops go by a book for how long it should take...not how long it actually takes.

[FBracing1222]

I did it myself and was on time 4 like 10-12 hrs then we dropped a bolt in the oil pan. Yeah ended up taking like 20+ hours haha

[67CamaroRSSS]

Book rate is the amount of time any mechanic or shop will charge you. This time is determined by the manufacturer of the vehicle. It's that times their labor rate (book time x labor rate = labor cost - parts are extra) for the labor charge. If he's faster he'll make $$$; if not then he loses.

[Intrepidman]

Book rate is the amount of time any mechanic or shop will charge you. This time is determined by the manufacturer of the vehicle. It's that times their labor rate (book time x labor rate = labor cost - parts are extra) for the labor charge. If he's faster he'll make $$$; if not then he loses.

For common work, or at dealerships, then yes..you are absolutely right. At most custom shops around here, its a much more fluid system. Kind of a combination of "what's a fair (or standard) price VS how much does this guy look like he'll agree to"

[mark21742]

If you pay attention to what your doing its not a hard job and only takes a few specialty tools. I'd try to find a friend with a garage, hand tools, jack and jack stands then buy some beer and pizza. If doing a new timing chain and pump plan on lifting the motor a few inches and dropping the pan down alittle to get to the pickup tube bolt.

The only (specialty tool) I think you need is a big 3 jaw pulley puller

[Mr. Luos]

The only (specialty tool) I think you need is a big 3 jaw pulley puller

Valvespring compressor.
Air compressor with fitting (pressurize the cylinder holding the valves up)

[mark21742]

Valvespring compressor.
Air compressor with fitting (pressurize the cylinder holding the valves up)

Good save, I was just thinking about the cam, not the valve springs