1966 Chevelle LSA/ZL1 install

[kwhizz]

Originally Posted by monicatomokc

Well, I've got to say it brought some tears to my eyes to see that motor come out of that car. I'm just one of those old-farts that would have a difficult time (except for those suspension/brakes changes), making the major changes you have going here.

I will never forget getting the call from McManus Chevrolet (67th (South) Western, Chicago) saying they were just unloading it off the truck back in April 1966. I couldn't get there fast enough... I envy you and the fun you must be having with this transformation. Best of luck!!

I know what you mean about the original car......But!!!...........All the parts removed were recycled back into Chevelles that were being built by other people to live another day.........What made it easier was that the car had some serious wiring issues and really couldn't be driven the way it was........

Ken

[Oz ZL-1]

Looking forward to more updates kwhizz!!!

[armysig]

Now this is a fun build. I can't wait to see the finished result.

[toyosuprablue]

Thanks for sharing, Keep the pics coming!

[tramtwo]

Damn!!

[ModBargains.com]

Fantastic build, thanks for sharing. Those ride tech pieces look legit, nice work

[phantom]

Great documentary, classic ride for sure!

[rzrbck_zl1]

Thanks, we'll be anxiously awaiting to see how this turns out! Glad to hear the old parts are being put to good use, too...

[L36L72LS3]

Ken, you sick in the head! But then again, so am I!

Jeff

[Fraxum]

OP this project completely magnificent! But I wonder, did you consider starting with a 283 powerglide car? That 396 was so cool to start with. But I suppose selling all those original 396 parts will help you fund this project.

Anyway looking forward to seeing the progress.

[kwhizz]

Still waiting for the rear axle assy to get finished up so I can get the rear suspension finished.......I got all new brake lines installed (exciting).....LOL.........I also bought the Kwik-Performance raised alternator kit that has the LS power steering pump built into it.........when I ordered it and talked to Wayne at Kwik and explained that it was going on a LSA engine assy out of the new Camaro......He explained that there were some issues with the alternator not clearing the Coil-Paks........I said don't worry about it I will deal with it.........So......I get the brackets installed and try to install the alternator........I can see it will hit the coils.....I open the hood on the Impala to see what the difference was and noticed right away that the alternators were different..........The new Camaro unit had a different body and shape........So....Rather try and re-invent the wheel I just bought the same unit that is on the Impala............Problem solved........I also like the way Kwik has incorporated the Power Steering pump into the brackets.........The LSA engine assy I bought didn't use a pump as the Camaro's have Electric Power steering........so....I killed two birds with one stone..........
The next issue that I'm working on is the placement of the engine mounts......The stock Chevelle engine frame mounts extend forward of the front crossmember.......and.....I need that room for my A/C compressor.......so......I'm making a set of adaptor plates for the engine and frame to center the mounts in the middle of the stock crossmember which will move the mounts back about 3 1/4" and give me the room I need.......Should have everything finished next week.........

















Ken

[Bowtie724]

You sir will be "Hurting some feelings" on the road. This looks like a complicated build, I feel i speak for everyone when I say "Holy Sh*t this is badass"

[LostPony]

Awesome build. Subscribing.

[AquaSSRS]

Awesome build. I hope to do something similar with my Nova in a couple years. Keep the pics coming.