does anyone have pics of the sts-v motor without the cover on?

I have such a pic at home and can post it this evening.

actually, i have the pic but don't know how to post it. i could email it if you provide an address.

this might work
http://ls1gto.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=47247&d=1164807851

No wonder they cover it up.

Not as pretty as a polished Maggie, Huh?

It may not be shiny and pretty, but you can tell it's all business under there.

Were you able to get the top cover off with the tower brace in place?

no sir. but the six nuts that hold the bar in place are very easy to access.

Maybe our friend, eWill3rd can indicate what if any torque settings should be observed if any, or any other concerns about removing the bar.

i had a tech remove mine while i observed. i can ask what the ts specs are. i am almost sure (it's been awhile) they were torqued to a gm spec.

FWIW, the CTS-V STB torque specs are 83 lb-ft (112 Nm).

Here are some...

http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j248/ssstealth/STS-V/P1010048.jpg

http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j248/ssstealth/STS-V/P1010044.jpg

http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j248/ssstealth/STS-V/P1010046.jpg

http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j248/ssstealth/STS-V/P1010045.jpg

I found that once you have the cover off, there are yet more covers... there are rubber insulated covers on top of the valve covers and all kinds of crazy plumbing and wiring. I will leave it covered unless racing. I think it will cool faster between rounds without the covers.