First off I have 98 5.2 2wd with 136k on it with a freshly built trans with less than 5k. Have 285s with stock 3.55 gears.

I have been searching for a cam upgrade and need help on deciding on a can. I'm looking for a lot of low to mid range torque to get up and move while keeping a manageable idle...

I'm looking at doing stock kegger mod with Hughes plenum kit, either stock t/b mod or a fastman, new iron ram heads either Hughes or eq don't know yet. I'm also looking at 1.7 RR with the cam I don't yet

The cams I'm looking at are:

Comp cams 20-602-9, 20-604-9, 20-744-9, 20-745-9
The 20-745-9 is one I've been leaning towards

I'm doing all this as funds become available. I don't mind spending the extra money it'll just take a lil longer...

I'm open to all suggestions.

Thanks in advance for all opinions

 

I lean towards the 20-744-9, due to the lower RPM range.
As discussed in other threads, you'll need better valve springs.

What are you doing on the exhaust side to improve flow?

 

definately want a tune from Hemifever

 

If you really want a great combination, consider installing a 5.9 in place of the 5.2. This will give you low to mid range torque that you seek, while you keep using your existing 5.2 motor until you are ready for the swap. Also, seriously consider swapping out the 3.55 gears for a set of 4.10 gears to help get those larger tires rolling quicker. With just these two changes, you are likely to be very, very happy with your truck.

 

For exhaust I've been trying to figure what the differences are between shorties and long tubes...I have a 3" cat back flow master super 10 on now and I'm looking at kegs offraod y pipe but I don't know about the headers...

I would love to swap a 5.9 but that will be down the road a ways. And I'm going to change the gears hopefully by the end of the year but I know my heads are cracked and my plan is leaking so I'm looking at building the top end right now...

I know I'm going to need to upgrade the valve train ie springs and what not I'm jus sure on which springs for comp cam 20-744-9 and what else should I replace ( lifters? Pushrods? Etc...would the stock pushrods be ok or what size would I need to swap...the valve train is a whole new world to me...

 

If you're looking at a Jeg's Y-pipe, you'll only be able to use short tube headers.
Long tube headers need a different y-pipe that crosses behind the transmission... Pacesetter is your only option for LT, unless you're getting custom built.

 

Ok performance wise what's the difference between the two?

 

Long tubes are better for low end grunt. Shorties will flow better than stock, and will nicely complement other mods, but, in and of themselves, won't do much.