Experienced hands, a hydraulic...
Experienced hands, a hydraulic transmission jack, and an air ratchet make short work of the trans installation. With that done, it’s time to move on the underbody.
We quickly forgot about all the parts and the hours of labor that went into this build the second we turned the key and heard the engine explode to life. Yes, explode. Small-blocks start, and it's fairly uneventful when they do. When a big-block starts, it sounds like a bomb going off. I clearly remember the first time I heard an original 427/435 fire up. It had side pipes, and it scared the life out of me—the kind of scared when you can't stop smiling.
David Fulcher took the first spin…literally. As he dropped the shift lever into "D" and touched the gas pedal, the car spun the tires right there in the service bay.
Don't miss the next issue when, along with final photos, we'll have the complete report from Walden's dyno, a full road-test review, and our driving impressions—including braking, steering response, handling, acceleration, and even a fuel-mileage summary. See you then.
Big-block front springs from...
Big-block front springs from Volunteer Vette are a must...
...as is a low-arch rear composite...
...as is a low-arch rear composite monoleaf spring. Sourced from Van Steel, the latter item is specifically designed for big-block, big-power applications.
The beauty and durability...
The beauty and durability of powdercoating can be addictive.
Fortunately, Miller’s Powder...
Fortunately, Miller’s Powder Coating can feed our obsession.
Energy Suspension’s urethane...
Energy Suspension’s urethane bushing kit...
...will tighten up the suspension,...
...will tighten up the suspension, motor mounts, and the transmission mount, too.
We decided to lose the leaky...
We decided to lose the leaky power-steering slave cylinder and move up to Borgeson’s complete kit. A new Delphi quick-ratio box, all the lines and bolts, and a new rag joint are included.
EBC Brakes’ slotted and partially...
EBC Brakes’ slotted and partially drilled rotors resist cracking and are designed to work with factory Corvette calipers.
We installed a Be Cool aluminum...
We installed a Be Cool aluminum radiator from Summit Racing, which should improve the heat-dissipating capabilities of our cooling system.
New trailing arms are from...
New trailing arms are from Lonestar Caliper. They were sourced and completely assembled by Precision Corvette Differential. vette