Hi all just purchased this 2006 Z06(all stock) i don't plan on tracking the car,just a beach cruzer. She's got 22000km
- Thread starter Steve A.
- Start date
Hello Steve and welcome to the forum. Great looking Z. Just a note if you haven't done some research but a number of the LS7 engines were subject to valve guide issues. Many of our members have had their heads done just to be sure and some also had valve failures which cause a lot of grief and cost. I will note that not all the LS7's had this issue but it might not hurt to have a reputable shop give you some advice. One of our forum sponsors is RaceReady Garage in Cambridge and they have a stellar reputation specializing in Corvettes if you wanted to give them a call. Dave or Nigel would certainly give advice.
You're welcome but like I mentioned, not all of them were affected. Get the advice and if you have to spend some money, your car is still well worth it. It looks showroom and you're gonna love it. Congrats. you will be all smiles regardless.
Hi Steve . I'm not sure if any of this will be of value but it's what I found doing a quick search. It is from Perplexity AI just to be clear so always double check but there may be something that helps. The question marks would be links to the source of the info but don't copy and paste. Here is the link to my search, where you will see the links ...https://www.perplexity.ai/search/is-there-a-way-to-identify-whi-oUIa1hkhTxCyOirnDzfFjQ
No definitive method exists to identify specific GM LS7 engines prone to valvetrain issues, such as valve drops or guide wear, solely by serial numbers, VIN codes, or casting marks, as GM did not issue recalls or specific identifiers.�� The problems primarily affect C6 Corvette Z06 models (2006-2013) with the LS7, linked to design factors like valve guide tolerances, longer valves, and high-RPM stress rather than a narrow production batch.���Affected ModelsLS7 engines appear in C6 Z06 Corvettes, identifiable by VIN 8th digit "Y" (early 2006-2007) or "E" (2007+), and some Grand Sport 427s.��� Issues occur across years, including stock engines with low miles, though risk rises with modifications, track use, or high RPMs above 7,000.��� Reports suggest 9-37% may show wear, but no year is immune.�Detection MethodsOwners monitor for valvetrain noise, misfires, power loss, or metal in oil, then inspect valve guides for out-of-roundness or runout via dial indicators.��� GM once had a technician test for clearance but discontinued it to avoid recalls.� Teardowns reveal dropped exhaust valves, often in cylinder 1.�Prevention StepsExtend valve guides 0.250" and use upgraded materials like manganese bronze.�Install roller rocker arms (e.g., Jesel shaft-mount or Harlan Sharp) to reduce side-loading.�Limit cam lift to 0.630" or less with stock rockers; upgrade valves and springs for track use.�