Wow, there's a lot to answer here, but I'll make it short and to the point. For starters, I couldn't agree more; the G-bodies are a tremendous bang for the buck and will accept just about any modifications that you can do to an early A-body. The only problem we're experiencing is the lack of quality cars to start a project with, but don't worry, we're keeping an eye out for one. Moving onto the 377ci build, that's something we've been tossing around for some time. Considering we already have a stout 406ci build from Jan. '07, "Old School Meets New," we could compare it to another, and that's definitely doable. Regarding the mechanical roller, it's a personal preference. You even said it yourself that it'll be the occasional cruiser, and knowing that, sure, why not? As for the duration and lift, it really comes down to what you can live with. We've cruised some seriously robust profiles, but there's no denying the comfort level of a mild idle with plenty of idle vacuum for power brakes.
We Want MoreHow about updating the database on heads? It looks like it's been a while. I see lots of stories on builds with claimed flow numbers, but it would be good to be able to compare unbiased results. How do the new(ish) big Vortecs stack up to the old? I am sure you're trying not to rile any advertisers, but your readers need good data to build the right combo. Kenneth C. McDonoughHillsboro, IL
Have no fear Ken, we're already on it. We currently have a special issue assigned to showcase the flow numbers, so keep your eyes open.
Sand what?I've wanted to install a GM Shortstar in my sandrail. Do you know of any aftermarket stand alone wiring harness or should I use stock ECU? Andy ReitzVia e-mail
I was beginning to wonder when the sandsports enthusiasts would start to trickle in. While the Shortstar, aka the V-6 NorthStar isn't something we generally experiment with, we do have an answer for you. Check out Howell Engine Developments at howellefi.com, which specializes in OEM harnesses, including custom mapping tunes for various applications and should be able to put you in the right direction.
Have something you want to share? Did we do good or did we blow it? Drop us a line at chevyhi@primedia.com.
Young GunsGood things have happened fast to 22-year-old Chris Barbour of Hackettstown, New Jersey. Chris' daily ride is an '02 Camaro SS 35th Anniversary car that he's modified to rip down the quarter-mile to the tune of 11.80 seconds at 121 mph at Island Dragway. The power behind the Camaro's impressive e.t. is derived from an LS1 engine fitted with LS6 ported heads, a Magic Stick camshaft yielding 237/242 degrees duration at 0.050 inch lift and 0.603/0.609 lift ground on a 113-degree lobe-separation angle, and a NX nitrous kit. A B&M shifter makes the gear changes, and a 9-inch Moser rearend fitted with a 4.11:1 cog transfers the power to the ground. On recent dyno pulls his Camaro has recorded 427 rear-wheel horses, and with the NX button depressed (with a 75 shot), 498 horses were measured at the rear wheels. The odometer to date has recorded only 33K.
Good StuffThe Goodguys Rod & Custom Association honored the "Chosen 5"-an elite group of award-winning cars and trucks-at its season-ending 9th Southwest Nationals in Scottsdale, Arizona. The lineup featured John Hill's Canada-based '70 Chevelle SS LS6, which captured the Goodguys/Unique Performance Muscle Car of the Year award. Hill's rare Daytona Yellow model features the factory cowl induction hood, an M22 "Rock Crusher" four-speed, a factory 4.10:1 Posi rearend, and last but not least, a 450hp LS6 454. Hill's Chevelle is also a factory bucket seat car with an optional cushion rim steering wheel and SS gauges. Congrats to John Hill on his cool Chevelle.
A full list of all the 2007 Goodguys events and special awards can be found at good-guys.com. -JN