hey guys, im planning to sell my bike in the near future and pick up an LT1 Camaro. Im looking to build something that sounds nice and has some power but not anything too outrageous, maybe intake, exhaust, cam, who knows what else. What I'm wondering is what is more reliable and sturdy in these cars, the auto or manual trans? also what are some common problems to look for when buying a used one?

 

Search around, there's plenty of these topic floating around. Start by reading the "where to start modding" sticky at the top of the 4th Gen section and get yourself some basic bolt-ons first. There's a lot you need to consider such as budget, who is going to do the work etc, but at least you figured out what you want out of the car.

As far as transmissions etc. they're a pretty robust car, both the auto and the manual are very robust. The six speeds have more of a tendency to grenade the rear end, but you should probably be looking for a car that hasn't been beaten on very much just as a general rule.

 

If I had a pick a first mod, it would probably be a new ring and pinion gear set. It will really wake up the car - makes it much more fun to drive on the street. Then I'd say go with your basic bolt ons that can transfer to bigger builds in the future - long tube headers, ORY, catback.

Next, I would probably do a bit with the suspension. Most of the rubber bushings are probably shot to ****, so you may want to replace them with some polyurethane units. Get a nice torque arm to help plant the tires on launch.

As far as tranny goes, really up to you. the 4l60e isn't a bad transmission. I would definitely get a external trans cooler. A streetable stall will also help wake the car up, and will be of use for future builds.