GM G-Body Performance Upgrades 1978-1987 Book~El Camino-Malibu-Grand Prix +more

Get all the details exactly right on engines, frames, suspension, exterior, interior, and more. Includes all the vital numbers to assure authenticity, including original parts numbers. Don’t settle for less! Your Super Sport deserves the best. “Important features in this book include 350 photos and diagrams.” Collector Car News. – See more at: https://www.quartoknows.com/books/9780879385699/Chevelle-SS-Restoration-Guide.html#sthash.fbs4LB0v.dpuf

The General Motors G-Body is one of the manufacturer’s most popular chassis, and includes cars such as the Chevrolet Malibu, Monte Carlo, and El Camino; the Buick Regal, Grand National, and the GNX; the Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme; the Pontiac Grand Prix; and more. This traditional and affordable front engine/rear-wheel-drive design lends itself to common upgrades and modifications for a wide range of high-performance applications, from drag racing to road racing. Many of the vehicles GM produced using this chassis were powered by V-8 engines, and others had popular turbocharged V-6 configurations. Some of the special-edition vehicles were outfitted with exclusive performance upgrades, which can be easily adapted to other G-Body vehicles.

Knowing which vehicles were equipped with which options, and how to best incorporate all the best-possible equipment is thoroughly covered in this book. A solid collection of upgrades including brakes, suspension, and the installation of GMs most popular modern engine-the LS-Series V-8-are all covered in great detail. The aftermarket support for this chassis is huge, and the interchangeability and affordability are a big reason for its popularity. It’s the last mass-produced V-8/rear-drive chassis that enthusiasts can afford and readily modify.

There is also great information for use when shopping for a G-Body, including what areas to be aware of or check for possible corrosion, what options to look for, and what should be avoided. No other book on the performance aspects of a GM G-Body has been published until now, and this book will serve as the bible to G-Body enthusiasts for years to come.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Acknowledgments 4

Chapter 1: Evolution not Revolution: G-Body History 5

A-Body Becomes G-Body 5

Chevrolet 6

Pontiac 10

Oldsmobile 10

Buick 11

Chapter 2: On the Hunt: Finding Your Ideal G-Body 15

Choosing a Model 15

Setting Performance Goals 16

Creating a Budget 17

General Inspection 20

Rust Issues 25

Body Damage 28

Chassis Considerations 28

Chapter 3: Maximizing Stopping Power: Stock and Aftermarket Brakes 29

Hydroboost Brake System 30

Powermaster Brake System 31

Brake Upgrades 32

Spindles 33

Brake Proportioning Valve 36

Brake Lines 37

Brake Conversions 42

Aftermarket Brake Systems 43

Chapter 4: Getting a Grip: Front Suspension Performance 47

Component Options 47

Stock Control Arms 48

Aftermarket Control Arms 51

Sway Bars 54

Shocks 56

Springs 57

Chapter 5: Handling on Rails: Steering System Upgrades 60

Steering Box 60

Rack-and-Pinion Conversion 62

Power Steering Hose 67

Power Steering Pump 67

Chapter 6: Hooking Up: High-Performance Rear Suspension 70

Control Arms 70

Bushings 71

Sway Bars 73

Shocks 73

Air Bag Suspension 73

Chapter 7: Building a Strong Foundation: Chassis and Frame Upgrades 77

Separate Frame from Body 77

Frame Rail Boxing 79

Roll Bar and Roll Cage Installation 79

Crossmembers 83

Wheel Clearance 85

Aftermarket Chassis 88

Chapter 8: Putting the Power Down: High-Performance Differentials and Axles 90

GM 10- or 12-Bolt 91

Ford 9-Inch 92

Dana 60 93

Budget Option 93

Stock Axle Assembly Upgrades 94

Ring-and-Pinion Gears 95

Pinion Supports and Yokes 95

Axle Shafts 95

Wheel Studs 96

Limited-Slips 96

Detroit Lockers 96

Spools 97

Differential Covers 97

Back Braces 98

Gear Cases 98

Chapter 9: Get Into Gear: Manual and Automatic Transmissions 100

Powerglide 100

Turbo Hydra-Matic 100

New-Generation Transmissions 103

OEM Manual Transmissions 104

Aftermarket Manual Transmissions 104

Chapter 10: A High-Performance Trans-Formation: Manual Transmission Swaps 107

Transmission Fit 109

Clutch Pedal 109

Driveshaft 111

Speedometer Drive 111

Shifter 111

Chapter 11: A Higher Power: Engine Swaps 112

Traditional V-8 Power 113

LS Series 116

Engine Mounts 119

Wiring and Engine Management 120

Exhaust 121

Intake 121

Carburetor or EFI 123

Fuel System 125

Cooling System 129

Swap Kits 130

Gauges 132

Accessories 133

Chapter 12: Driving in the Lap of Luxury: Performance Interior Upgrades 135

Gauges 135

Wiring Harness 138

Steering Wheel 138

Shifter 139

Seats 140

Safety Restraints 142

Source Guide 144