LQ4 freshen up?

[69Chevy]

So I started a thread several months ago about cam selection while replacing lifters. Now I've got at least a couple dead lifters so it definitely needs fixed but maybe I'll do a little more.

I'm at a bit on an impasse, however. I just dumped a bunch of money into getting my '84 Trans Am streetworthy again, so I don't have much to spend on this issue. But I know it needs lifters and an oil pump due to low oil pressure, so I'd really like to do it right with a few more upgrades.

Question is, what would be advisable and budget freindly? I don't want to break the bank but if I'm gonna be in there anyways....
First thing to know, I am a parts manager at a Chevy dealership so I can get deals on GM parts.
Figured for lifters I'll go with a 12499225 set.
Cam would be nice, but what size? (big if in terms of budget anyways)
Machine the heads a bit?
Is a sealed power gasket kit sufficient?
What else would be a good idea at this time
Thanks, Chris.

[farmtruc]

Performance parts compliment each other; so if you do one thing it typically leads to another.

IMO, if you're replacing lifters, just replace them and be done with the engine. Lifters being replaced aren't directly related to installing a performance cam.
You'll need to tear the frontend down.
If you do just lifters , then you'll be done and back on the road the same day.
I'd use stock head gaskets and manifold gaskets, FullService stock replacement head bolts and be done.

Now if you're looking for power, get a cam that doesn't require a larger stall converter.
headers also compliment a cam.
Might wanna do the cai as well.

[69Chevy]

Performance parts compliment each other; so if you do one thing it typically leads to another.

IMO, if you're replacing lifters, just replace them and be done with the engine. Lifters being replaced aren't directly related to installing a performance cam.
You'll need to tear the frontend down.
If you do just lifters , then you'll be done and back on the road the same day.
I'd use stock head gaskets and manifold gaskets, FullService stock replacement head bolts and be done.

Now if you're looking for power, get a cam that doesn't require a larger stall converter.
headers also compliment a cam.
Might wanna do the cai as well.

I will be replacing the oil pump too due to erratic oil pressure, so the front will come off, not to mention the oil pan is seeping also, so 2 birds with one stone. I'm going to pull the engine and reseal it all, hence my idea for going a little further in upgrades.

Guess I should have mentioned it's in a '93 K2500 (6 lug) with a basic CAI already but otherwise stock, well, exhaust of course, but stock manifolds. The drivetrain supposedly had around 140k on it. I use it for general pickup stuff, hauling junk, towing my other projects, winter rig, etc. Doesn't get driven too often, but when I do drive it, usually there's a reason. I'm always game for more power as I've sort of spoiled myself with some of my other cars, but I suppose it doesn't have to have any more. It's got plenty for how I use it currently, but it's never had more than 6000lbs behind it with this drivetrain so who knows. I plan on keeping it indefinitely, so upgrading right now isn't a necessity I guess. I just hate the idea of having to tear it down again just for upgrades sake, though I guess it would just be the price of gaskets at that point plus the new upgrades.

Guess I talked myself out of that....

Anywho, should I at least have the heads checked out/touched/?
Also, stock replacement oil pump, or is there a better option since the stock pumps seem to have issues.
Anything else I should look for, I see these engines torn down all the time but always for "fix what's wrong and put it back together sake" never with free reign as to what can be done.

Thanks