3.4/3400/3500 hybrid. Collecting parts, need upgra

[bachert24]

I started collecting the parts I need for the swap, I picked up 3500 heads and LIM, 3400 UIM, pistons and throttle body, 36lb fuel injectors, 3500 lz4 fuel rail that I'm hoping works. Still need 3500 valve covers, a cam, and some smaller pieces like the gaskets and a few fittings.

My question is, do you guys have advice for parts to upgrade the pistons and heads? Should I buy new rings, pins, bearings, rod bolts, etc?

For the heads, better seats, springs, seals, rocker arms, lifters, pushrods, etc? I need this hybrid to eventually handle about 350 rwhp. Big thanks to anyone who has suggestions! Hell even a recommendation on gaskets helps. I'm assuming 3500 head gaskets, LIM gasket, 3400 UIM and TB gasket?

[Guest]

Any of the gen3 rocker covers will work. The only differences I have seen so far (Aside from the very early composite covers that you don't want), is that the LX9 has a different PCV valve than the earlier gen3 660s. I'm swapping my LX9 rocker cover to LA1 rocker cover(s), to use a different style PCV on my car.

Yes, bearings, rings, etc, would be ideally new. Depending on the type of rebuild/refreshing you are doing, sometimes inspecting the existing rings, bearins, etc and re-using them if they are in acceptable condition can be done. I've re-used head bolts, without issue, even though they are "1 time use". Rod bolts and fasteners are generally not replaced, unless there is a failure (the aforementioned head bolts are an exception).

[bachert24]

Any of the gen3 rocker covers will work. The only differences I have seen so far (Aside from the very early composite covers that you don't want), is that the LX9 has a different PCV valve than the earlier gen3 660s. I'm swapping my LX9 rocker cover to LA1 rocker cover(s), to use a different style PCV on my car.

Yes, bearings, rings, etc, would be ideally new. Depending on the type of rebuild/refreshing you are doing, sometimes inspecting the existing rings, bearins, etc and re-using them if they are in acceptable condition can be done. I've re-used head bolts, without issue, even though they are "1 time use". Rod bolts and fasteners are generally not replaced, unless there is a failure (the aforementioned head bolts are an exception).

Thanks for that info Raven, always a pleasure. I did notice that all the Gen3 had the same bolt pattern to that makes finding some cheap ones pretty easy. I will pick up some new bearings and rings to be safe. You think those pistons can handle 350 rwhp? Any advice on upgrading the valvetrain? I already know what cam I am getting and I understand I will have to measure for the rods, but what about the springs, seats, seals, rocker arms, etc?