| 1967 Project Nightmare Engine Makeover front View
In our first segment of the Project '67 Nightmare we showed you how to build the frame, suspension, and brakes. Then, the freshly powdercoated '67 frame was enhanced with a Classic Performance Products (CPP) suspension Grand Slam kit and other awesome chassis upgrades.
For this segment of Project '67 Nightmare's buildup, we concentrated on the LS1 engine that was extracted from an '04 Pontiac GTO. We mixed the engine performance with eye-candy goodies by installing a fuel delivery, an ignition, and billet aluminum serpentine pulley systems. It is important to have your tricked-out ride not only look good, but also be able to haul the mail, as well.
| 1967 Project Nightmare Engine Makeover trans And Motor
We focused through the lens as Bill Markel at Bonfire Racing in Lancaster, California, twisted the wrenches to install these horsepower-enhancing products. The LS1 engine will be receiving a new fuel-injection throttle body, intake manifold, fuel rails, fuel pressure regulator, braided stainless hose lines with AN fittings, and power-steering pump, all from Professional Performance. For a stronger and more consistent spark, Bill installed a set of new MSD ignition coils and 8.5mm ignition connector wires. To improve the aesthetics of the engine, Bill installed a March Performance billet aluminum pulley system, a March one-wire 140-amp billet alternator, and a Hot Rod Air Sanden 508 air-conditioning compressor.
Oh, what a difference a little bling can make. It's easy to take the extra time and spend a little more money before reassembling the truck to make it a real quality build.
| This overall view captures the true-beauty of the '04 LS1 power-plant makeover.
From The Driver Seat:The '67 Nightmare LS1 engine makeover was an effortless install. The Milodon 7-quart oil pan was bolted underneath the aluminum block before it was mounted onto the bare frame. With the engine mounted to the bare frame, there were no obstructions like cab firewall, fenders/inner-fenders, or radiator core support. The Professional Products and MSD parts were simply bolt-on items and went on very easily. The pre-cut MSD Spark Plug Connectors were as simple as plug-n-plug. The March polished aluminum pulley system was a clean and simple installation. All of the mounting brackets aligned spot-on. The March polished aluminum power-steering pump and 140 amp alternator were a perfect fit. The pulleys' tapered caps create a smooth appearance. Installing the new aftermarket engine components on the LS1 engine was like hanging new ornaments on a Christmas tree.
