A Going from 1.5- to 1.6-ratio rockers isn't a problem with your computer-controlled timing system. Where you can sometimes run into problems is when aftermarket camshafts create valvetrain noise from increased valve velocities. With the increased valve speed you may see increased noise from the valves closing, or overtaxing the valvetrain like the lifters and springs. The computer may pick these noises up through the knock sensor and, thinking it's hearing spark knock, retard the timing.
These are rare cases, and it's usually when you go crazy with your camshaft selection. You won't see any of these problems with a rocker change, and if you guys have any questions about the cams that will work with onboard electronics, ask the manufacturers. They have tested them in your application and can warn you of problems.
Short To The Right!Q I have a '69 Camaro that has what I think is a unique problem. The steering on this car will turn normally to the left, but turns short to the right. I cannot tell that this car has ever been wrecked; in fact, the front suspension looks original, due to the factory undercoating on parts of it. I have changed out the steering gear and also have centered the steering twice, to no avail. The car has original-looking disc brakes. The tie-rod ends don't seem to be the same length, and I don't know if this matters. Thanks for your help, from a 62-year-old hot rodder.Jerry Palmer
A I'm jealous. I wish that I had just one of our Camaros back that I've owned over the years. After watching the Barrett-Jackson auctions I still can't believe the money those first-genie cars are bringing. Congrats, and enjoy your Camaro. Now let's keep you off the curbs on those right turns.
The Camaros came equipped with three different-length outer steering arms, mixed and matched depending on the steering type and the ratio of the steering gear. The shortest arms were used on power-steering standard-ratio and Z/28 fast-ratio manual boxes. The short arms measure approximately 5.25 inches from the spindle centerline to the tie-rod attachment hole. The medium-length arms were '67-68 manual steering gear. These measure out at approximately 5.50 inches. And finally, the long arms measure approximately 6.0 inches and were used on the slow-ratio manual steering gear. I understand that the undercoating and road grime lead you to believe that your front end is original. However, back in the early part of your Camaro's life, it could have been introduced into a curb or a slight fender bender that would have required some parts replacement. They will all swap out with out any problem. The years have given the suspension a blended state of color.
This is the only thing that I can think of if you have centered the steering gear. If you have two different-length outer arms it would cause your problem. Get out a tape measure and check out your arms. Hope this leads you to your problem (and solution).
Will not lightQ I have a '94 LT1 that has been transplanted into my '89 AWD S-10 Blazer. The problem I have is that the engine will not start after sitting a couple of hours, unless I spray starting fluid into it. The VATS has been removed as well as having the computer calibrated for the speed sensor in my TH700R-4 and all the unnecessary stuff has been deleted. The following parts were replaced by my dealer: PCM, fuel injectors, pressure regulator, Opti-Spark, ignition module and spark plugs and wires, all to no avail. I have scanned the PCM myself with a code reader that I rented from my local parts store. It says there are no codes, but the "check engine" light still comes on and stays on after the truck is running with the starting fluid. Can you point me in a direction that may resolve this problem? It's already kept me from getting the truck on the road for over a year now! Thanks.James GravesStillwater, OK