Ok, that makes sense. My question is how do I figure out spring specs for such an old cam shaft? It was assembled 20 years ago so the original box is gone and can’t find specs online. If anything, I would like to just run the cam and lifters that came with the short block, or just the cam and run their hydraulic lifter if needed. Thanks for the quick reply!
See if this helps
https://help.summitracing.com/knowledgebase/article/HE-04784/en-us#:~:text=105%20%2D%20125%20lbs.
Home HE-04784
Valve Spring Pressure - Hydraulic Flat Tappet
Recommended Spring Pressure
The following table provides general guidelines for street/strip engines with a hydraulic flat tappet camshaft.
Engine Type Seat Pressure Open Pressure
Stock Small Block 105 - 125 lbs. 220 - 280 lbs.
Moderate Performance Small Block 260 - 330 lbs.
Stock Big Block 115 - 130 lbs. 220 - 280 lbs.
Moderate Performance Big Block 260 - 330 lbs.
Tips & Tricks
Use Screw-In Rocker Arm Studs with valve spring open pressures over 280 lbs.
Open pressures over 280 lbs. can loosen press-in rocker arm studs.
Most manufacturers will recommend valve springs to go with each cam they make.
We recommend using these springs, or a spring with similar specifications.