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View Full Version : 84 Camaro Z28, 408 LS/T56, Full coil over Corvette suspension, and ABS.



SoloC4
10-15-2021, 07:09 PM
I started this build in 2006 and drove it for the first time in 2019. It is currently in body modification phase now. Enjoy.19284419284519284619284719284819284919285019 2851192852 For more details, just ask.

ProTouringMan
10-15-2021, 08:31 PM
Wow! Can you tell us more about the rear end? Looks independent

SoloC4
10-15-2021, 09:13 PM
Wow! Can you tell us more about the rear end? Looks independent

Yes it is. I took the front and rear suspension from a ‘92 Corvette roller and adapted it to the Camaro. The ABS is also from the roller. The rear is tubed and reinforced to support the suspension and coil overs, and the front frame rails were sectioned with new rails installed at a 13* angle. The front k-member and transmission support are custom fabrication pieces. All of this was done by myself, which explains the 15 year timeframe.

cpd004
10-16-2021, 03:09 AM
Cool project! How's the ground clearance with the exhaust run like that? I buddy had the same camaro wheels for a short time but the potholes around here would eat up the tires.

SoloC4
10-16-2021, 05:54 AM
The lowest point of the exhaust are the V-band clamps at the headers collectors.192853192854
The 20” wheels are temporary that I got cheap just for the initial shake down of the suspension. The car is having several body modifications, including custom fiberglass front and rear fascias. I don’t want my custom wheels damaged while I work on it.

SoloC4
12-25-2021, 01:46 PM
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Custom fiberglass front and rear bumpers

CarlC
12-25-2021, 11:18 PM
What a project, and serious dediation!

berdunord
12-26-2021, 02:13 AM
Nice project !

What did you use to wire your abs sensors please and how did to set it in the ECU ?

SoloC4
12-26-2021, 09:29 AM
Nice project !

What did you use to wire your abs sensors please and how did to set it in the ECU ?

The ABS is stand alone from the car that the suspension is from. The C4 Corvette ABS is also an independent system. I am using only the sensors at each wheel and have deleted the other inputs and traction control. The ABS computer connector has been de-pinned so it only reads braking input and wheel speeds. I have driven the car and tested the ABS and it works like it should. I honestly will probably never use the system, other than to prove it works.

SPLATT71MC
12-26-2021, 08:05 PM
I'm curious about the front suspension setup. I like the idea of a SLA coilover setup on these cars.

berdunord
12-26-2021, 10:13 PM
The ABS is stand alone from the car that the suspension is from. The C4 Corvette ABS is also an independent system. I am using only the sensors at each wheel and have deleted the other inputs and traction control. The ABS computer connector has been de-pinned so it only reads braking input and wheel speeds. I have driven the car and tested the ABS and it works like it should. I honestly will probably never use the system, other than to prove it works.

Ok thx a lot ! I have abs sensors from corvette c5/c6 hubs but no way to read the speed with my ms3-pro evo and I ve tried a lot of way to wire them.

What ABS computer did you use and which pins did you remove please to read the speed ?

SoloC4
12-26-2021, 11:09 PM
Ok thx a lot ! I have abs sensors from corvette c5/c6 hubs but no way to read the speed with my ms3-pro evo and I ve tried a lot of way to wire them.

What ABS computer did you use and which pins did you remove please to read the speed ?

The gold box behind the ABS module in the upper right of the image is the brake control unit (BCU). These are located behind the drivers seat in a C4 Corvette and are independent of the ECU. I believe that the C5 ABS module has the BCU integrated in it. You will have to verify this. I found the wire schematics in a C4 service manual and left only the 12v wires (2), switched 12v, ground, brake input (wired to the brake lights), and the wheel sensors (8).
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berdunord
12-27-2021, 07:47 AM
Thanks a lot for all information !

Samckitt
12-27-2021, 07:55 AM
That's cool. Did you develop the suspension bracketry yourself, or did you find a kit to transition? ANy build pics of it? Thx

SoloC4
12-27-2021, 09:21 AM
That's cool. Did you develop the suspension bracketry yourself, or did you find a kit to transition? ANy build pics of it? Thx

All of the engineering and fabrication was done by me. The front frame rails were sectioned and new rails built and installed at 13 degrees for anti-dive. The k-member was custom built by me 2” wider for the Camaro and I am using the steering rack from a 4th gen Camaro. I had taken a lot of pictures when I did the rear suspension, but it took a lot of time to document it, so I didn’t take as many when I did the front suspension. I apologize for that, but it was far more complicated with the steering geometry and the engine mock up to deal with, and I just wanted to get it done.

C Presley
12-27-2021, 02:16 PM
Excellent engineering, and execution! How does the Car handle, particularly corner?

SoloC4
12-27-2021, 05:42 PM
Excellent engineering, and execution! How does the Car handle, particularly corner?

The improvements in handling and road manners are amazing. You really cannot compare the two suspensions to each other, but this car is so much easier to drive. Nothing upsets it and it is very smooth, no harsh jolts, bumps, or drift. I have raced both Camaros and Corvettes in auto cross and the C4 Corvette always dominated, which is the reason why I decided to do this conversation. I also took the opportunity to improve upon the Corvette suspension geometry while I was doing it. The coil-overs and massive anti-roll bars help also. Thank you for the kind words and your interest in my project.

SoloC4
01-07-2022, 07:47 PM
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Added a flush mount gas cap to match the flush mount door handles that I am going to install

jus1975
01-09-2022, 01:15 AM
following

SoloC4
01-15-2022, 08:48 PM
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Added Kindigit door handles to my Camaro……………………..

Motown 454
01-20-2022, 01:15 PM
Amazing project, and engineering! Saying nice work doesn't seem to cover all you've done.

syborg tt
01-21-2022, 09:44 AM
Wow is this an awesome project and holy crap have you done some incredible work.

I am so looking forward to seeing more pictures of the build and the paint & Body

Thank you so much for sharing.

Samckitt
01-21-2022, 10:21 AM
All of the engineering and fabrication was done by me. The front frame rails were sectioned and new rails built and installed at 13 degrees for anti-dive. The k-member was custom built by me 2” wider for the Camaro and I am using the steering rack from a 4th gen Camaro. I had taken a lot of pictures when I did the rear suspension, but it took a lot of time to document it, so I didn’t take as many when I did the front suspension. I apologize for that, but it was far more complicated with the steering geometry and the engine mock up to deal with, and I just wanted to get it done.

You have the rear fabrication posted somewhere? Would love to see it, I have always wanted to do it with an 80's Monte SS. Thanks

SoloC4
01-21-2022, 07:52 PM
You have the rear fabrication posted somewhere? Would love to see it, I have always wanted to do it with an 80's Monte SS. Thanks

I did a complete thread on the Thirdgen.org forum. It’s in 2 parts under Fabrication, search for “Corvette suspension” and “Corvette suspension continued”. The first part is the deconstruction and the second is the fabrication. There are two rears in the Corvette, DANA 44, and DANA 36. You will want the 44 for its strength. You can PM me and I’ll help in anyway I can.

Samckitt
01-22-2022, 06:14 AM
I did a complete thread on the Thirdgen.org forum. It’s in 2 parts under Fabrication, search for “Corvette suspension” and “Corvette suspension continued”. The first part is the deconstruction and the second is the fabrication. There are two rears in the Corvette, DANA 44, and DANA 36. You will want the 44 for its strength. You can PM me and I’ll help in anyway I can.

Awesome, I'll check it out. About 12 years ago, I had a Dana 44 rear. One of the mounting legs was bent on it. When we moved in 2010 I sold it for more than I paid for it. :-)

SoloC4
04-25-2022, 06:24 PM
I wanted something extraordinary and unique for this build and I came up with this.199254199253199255199256

ed1le
07-17-2022, 08:29 PM
Wow, this build is amazing! Love it!

FORDvsCHEVY
07-17-2022, 11:59 PM
Man nice build. Wish I could do that kinda work. Wanna adopt and train a 46 yr old son?

SoloC4
07-19-2022, 03:26 AM
Wow, this build is amazing! Love it!

Thank you, it's been a long process being a one man show, but it's progressing.


Man nice build. Wish I could do that kinda work. Wanna adopt and train a 46 yr old son?

Thank you, but there is no need to adopt, if you ever around western Washington give me a shout and you can see it up close.

SoloC4
10-10-2022, 06:46 PM
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I’ve gotten a few things in epoxy primer.

Aschle
10-12-2022, 08:12 AM
This is a cool build. Looking forward to the finished product !!!

ryeguy2006a
10-12-2022, 09:26 AM
That's a really nice temporary paint booth! Nicely done on the body mods too. I may have to pick your brain on the intricacies of the C4 suspension.

SoloC4
10-12-2022, 04:06 PM
That's a really nice temporary paint booth! Nicely done on the body mods too. I may have to pick your brain on the intricacies of the C4 suspension.

I’m always happy to help where I can. The gears in my head have been contemplating a 5th/6th gen. Camaro rear suspension for my ‘70, with a TT LS, but I’ll more likely to keep that build simple and do none of that.

huegh
12-03-2022, 06:30 PM
Hello,

I am re-building a 87 Camaro Z 28. I need a front suspension. I'd like to purchase the set up that you have on your car with the exhaust. Do you sell these parts?

SoloC4
12-05-2022, 08:12 PM
Hello,

I am re-building a 87 Camaro Z 28. I need a front suspension. I'd like to purchase the set up that you have on your car with the exhaust. Do you sell these parts?

The suspension and exhaust on my car are one off custom pieces that I performed in my 2 car garage just for this car. I do not have the time or resources to mass produce these since this is a hobby for me and the amount of hours to reproduce them would not be cost effective for me, or affordable for the average enthusiast. Sorry!

SoloC4
01-19-2023, 07:30 PM
I’ve decided to add a harness bar and delete the rear seat.204844204842204841204843

qnitro
01-25-2023, 11:50 AM
Very cool project!!

SoloC4
03-20-2023, 06:11 PM
A sneak peek of what’s coming soon.206342206343206344206345

sqrlnts
03-20-2023, 06:23 PM
I’ve decided to add a harness bar and delete the rear seat.204842204841

Does the bottom of this just weld straight to the frame?

SoloC4
03-20-2023, 09:23 PM
Does the bottom of this just weld straight to the frame?

Yes, they are receivers for the main hoop. They are also attached directly to the upper coil-over mounts. The carpet will cover them.206353

SoloC4
04-05-2023, 05:46 PM
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Car is painted and is being reassembled. Images of the completed project are forthcoming.

TANKMASTERJ
04-05-2023, 07:07 PM
Looking sweet. I like the color and the build especially the hood vents and kindig handles

LS1-IROC
04-12-2023, 05:44 AM
Looking sweet!!

NCSU68
04-12-2023, 06:10 AM
Very Nice!!!

SoloC4
04-12-2023, 03:38 PM
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Installed the taillights, and it gives more prospective of the modifications to the rear bumper. The flush look that I had in mind when I started this project. I appreciate all of the positive responses to my build.

SoloC4
04-19-2023, 06:19 PM
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The wheels arrived today. They are Forgeline RB3C with anodized bronze center, polished outer rim, and satin black inner rim. The front are 18 X 9.5, 6.5” BS with a 275/35-18 RT660 tire and the rear are 18 X 11, 7” BS with a315/30-18 RT660 tire. I could not be happier with the color against the blue paint.

SoloC4
05-10-2023, 06:44 PM
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Forgeline RB3C / Fulken Azenis RT660
18 X 9.5, 6.5 BS / 275/35-18 front
18 X 11, 7 BS / 315/30-18 rear

Cshenker1121
05-10-2023, 06:52 PM
Love the wheels!

landpilot
05-10-2023, 07:10 PM
Can't wait to see the finished car! Looks awesome!

SoloC4
05-10-2023, 07:27 PM
Can't wait to see the finished car! Looks awesome!
Almost there, and it IS turning out awesome.

SoloC4
05-12-2023, 08:39 PM
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Making progress. The exterior is complete less the diffuser and rear hatch. I’m going to install the carpet and headliner before installing the hatch.

thumper877
05-13-2023, 02:52 AM
Looks awesome. Love the color. Are those home made jack stands? Really like those

landpilot
05-13-2023, 05:31 AM
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Making progress. The exterior is complete less the diffuser and rear hatch. I’m going to install the carpet and headliner before installing the hatch.

You’re right about the wheels and the paint! Great combination. I run those tires on my 2nd gen and love them!

SoloC4
05-13-2023, 06:44 AM
Looks awesome. Love the color. Are those home made jack stands? Really like those
Thanks for compliment. The stands are from “myliftstands” and they are great for situations like mine where I don’t have room or ceiling height for a lift and I can make suspension adjustments with the car on its wheels.

C Presley
05-13-2023, 11:02 AM
Dude, nice work on the C4 equipped IROC

Dave Pratt
05-17-2023, 04:27 AM
The paint/wheel colour combo looks killer.Really nice work that you've done on this build...now I want a 3rd Gen!

SoloC4
05-17-2023, 04:41 PM
The paint/wheel colour combo looks killer.Really nice work that you've done on this build...now I want a 3rd Gen!

Hey Dave, I will be showing it for the first time at the PNWCC All Camaro Show in Issaquah, Wa on July 17th. You should come down and see it in person up close. I guarantee it is better than pictures. Steven

SPLATT71MC
05-17-2023, 06:53 PM
What stands are those and where did you get them?

SoloC4
05-17-2023, 08:28 PM
What stands are those and where did you get them?

They are “myliftstands” and I found them online years ago. They are not as convenient as a post lift, but I don’t have the space or ceiling height for that. They have 2 heights, 7” and 14” which is great for suspension work with weight on wheels.

SPLATT71MC
05-23-2023, 08:25 PM
They are “myliftstands” and I found them online years ago. They are not as convenient as a post lift, but I don’t have the space or ceiling height for that. They have 2 heights, 7” and 14” which is great for suspension work with weight on wheels.

Thank you. I plan on getting a 2 post lift eventually but I think these would be great for those times a lift isn't needed or is tied up on another project.

SoloC4
06-07-2023, 07:55 PM
I’m adding a rear diffuser. All of the major pieces have been cut, the plate needs a couple of 1” radius bends, and it will be ready to tack together.
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syborg tt
06-10-2023, 06:02 AM
Wow I am blown away by the progress on this car and the color combination is just incredible. I can’t wait to see more updates and I have to figure out why I’m not getting notifications.

SoloC4
07-05-2023, 02:50 PM
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Added a custom modified center console with a 2 DIN head unit with Bluetooth, Vintage Air controls, and cup holders replacing the ashtray.

SoloC4
07-08-2023, 07:44 PM
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She’s a driver

ryeguy2006a
07-10-2023, 04:49 AM
That is a beautiful car!! I need to pick one of these up before the price really takes off. I've always wanted a 87 IROC.

TANKMASTERJ
07-11-2023, 09:11 PM
Any progress on the rear diffuser

SoloC4
07-12-2023, 04:14 AM
Any progress on the rear diffuser
Almost none. I was convinced by a few friends to concentrate on finishing the interior and getting it driving for some upcoming shows. I'm almost there and It will be at it's first show this weekend. The diffuser will be continued very soon. I have all of the pieces cut and I should be able to weld it next week. Thanks for asking and your continued intrest in my project.

TANKMASTERJ
07-14-2023, 06:52 PM
The first show is always awesome for a new build. Enjoy the fruits of the labor!

SoloC4
07-17-2023, 08:27 PM
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I received this at the PNWCC Show on Sunday. The car’s first appearance.

TANKMASTERJ
07-19-2023, 06:15 PM
That's freakin awesome to get a plaque the first time out and not even be a 100% congrats on a great build and you deserve it

SoloC4
07-19-2023, 07:18 PM
That's freakin awesome to get a plaque the first time out and not even be a 100% congrats on a great build and you deserve it

Thank you, the car was very well received. I had a crowd the entire day. I didn’t even get a chance to look around at the show. As far as the diffuser goes, I’ve started welding it today, and I hope to have it finished by the weekend. I’ll post about it soon.

landpilot
07-19-2023, 07:32 PM
Congratulations on the show win! Your car looks fantastic, love the interior! Can't wait to see how the diffuser turns out!

SoloC4
07-22-2023, 07:36 PM
I’m adding a rear diffuser. All of the major pieces have been cut, the plate needs a couple of 1” radius bends, and it will be ready to tack together.
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It’s about 90 percent welded. I should be test fitting it soon.

ryeguy2006a
07-26-2023, 07:23 AM
Congrats on the first time out! Getting a plaque to boot is a nice added bonus. What are your driving impressions with the upgraded suspension?

SoloC4
07-26-2023, 12:51 PM
Congrats on the first time out! Getting a plaque to boot is a nice added bonus. What are your driving impressions with the upgraded suspension?

Thank you, it was a nice surprise to have the car so well received its first time out. This may be a long post because I made so many changes since the initial shakedown. The new wheels completely change how the suspension feels due to that they are half the weight of the 2010 Camaro wheels that I was using. The decreased unsprung weight makes the suspension much more responsive and that changed the dynamics on the suspension. It also changed all of the settings, mainly camber and toe to the point of having to re-align the car. I made new brackets for rear control arms with additional adjustments for lift and squat and on the first drive the rear tires were contacting the fender lips. I increased the anti-squat and it seems to have solved that issue.overall impressions are great, but I’m biased. The car is very smooth over rough roads despite the shocks being setup for autocross and the steering feels more stable than the strut suspension, but that could be contributed to better parts in the build. This car is amazing, no other one like it, so it is hard to compare it to other cars. Was it all worth it?, for me, definitely. I wife probably would not agree, but she has her own hobbies.

SoloC4
07-29-2023, 03:33 PM
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The diffuser is finished and installed. With the addition of the diffuser, the car is officially complete. All that is left to do is drive and enjoy the fruits of my labor.

Dave Pratt
07-30-2023, 07:59 AM
The rear diffuser and deck lid spoiler look great...really great. Lake Stevens isn't that far over the boarder I'm still hoping to see that car in person before the summer is over. Paint turned out excellent

SoloC4
07-30-2023, 03:33 PM
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The car has come full circle and it’s time for me to move on to the next project. I want to thank everyone at Pro-Touring for their support and encouragement over the years.

SoloC4
07-30-2023, 03:50 PM
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ryeguy2006a
08-02-2023, 10:34 AM
Love the pictures! That color really pops. Those wheels are also a great choice. They really fit the application.

SoloC4
08-26-2023, 04:47 PM
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I was awarded “Most Radical Modifications” at the 2023 Pacific Northwest RADwood show.

SoloC4
11-14-2023, 09:49 PM
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A pretty successful first season. 5 shows, 3 awards.
This was the first summer of car shows for my recently completed build. It was very well received and I had a great time showing off during the abbreviated season. I’m looking forward to next year’s season and auto cross it a few times.

ryeguy2006a
11-15-2023, 07:39 AM
Congrats on the awards!! Very well deserved, you knocked it out of the park.

TomCat
11-21-2023, 06:54 PM
I love the all of what you've done...the chassis, especially. I want to put the vette IRS in mine.

SoloC4
11-22-2023, 08:54 PM
I love the all of what you've done...the chassis, especially. I want to put the vette IRS in mine.

Welcome to the Pro-Touring board. If you are serious about the IRS, go to ThirdGen.org and do a search. I did an extensive thread on the subject under “Corvette Suspension” and “Corvette Suspension continued”. There are dozens of people that have put the C4 IRS in these cars dozens of different ways, but I know of only 2 that have done the front SLA suspension. I was the first and I helped with the other with technical support. The IRS is much easier than the SLA due to fewer associated parts such as K-member, engine, and steering. Thank you for your interest in my project, I too love the outcome.

Cramer4918
11-24-2023, 07:00 AM
Awesome build! Your finished product is amazing! Kudos to your fabrication skills!

SoloC4
03-07-2024, 06:05 PM
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I added a muffler to the system for a total of three. It is noticeably less raspy and a bit quieter, but still has a nice rumble. I haven’t driven it yet, just idling in the garage, so I can’t comment on the drone level at this time. Overall it is an improvement over what it was prior to the new muffler. It fits perfectly in the center bay of the rear diffuser, so it’s barely noticeable visually.

SoloC4
07-11-2024, 06:15 PM
I took my car out on the track for its first time June 16th to a local Auto X event. I haven’t found the limits of this car, it is far more capable than the driver.213953213954213955

landpilot
07-11-2024, 06:48 PM
I took my car out on the track for its first time June 16th to a local Auto X event. I haven’t found the limits of this car, it is far more capable than the driver.213953213954213955

absolutely beautiful car!

ryeguy2006a
07-12-2024, 05:21 AM
Beautiful! I love that color.

SoloC4
07-28-2024, 06:19 PM
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Brought home “Best in Show” from the Pacific Northwest Camaro Club “All Camaro” show. 150+ 1st - 6th generation Camaros and mine was chosen to be the best one at the show. It was an amazing honor.

SoloC4
08-03-2024, 04:06 PM
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Granite Falls, WA show and shine Best 80’s modified

Betelgeuse
08-05-2024, 09:16 AM
What coating are you using on your exhaust?

SoloC4
08-05-2024, 05:21 PM
What coating are you using on your exhaust?

It,s a ceramic coating, titanium in color, and of unknown brand. I had it applied by a local performance coating business. I had the headers and exhaust system done.

SoloC4
04-06-2025, 06:55 PM
While I was upgrading the ductwork of the Vintage Air I found something that I wasn’t expecting. The blower motor was barely hanging on to the side of the unit case. The front corner was broken and pieces missing from the flange that the motor mounted onto. With the weight of the blower motor, I don’t understand the logic of using a plastic flange.
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I made an aluminum flange/blower motor mount that wraps around the front of the case.
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The aluminum plate was then bonded to the case with 3M 08115 panel bond and pop riveted in place.
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The metal flange is much more rigid, providing a solid mounting flange for the blower motor, and seals the case. The front case support bracket also bolts to the aluminum plate giving the entire unit additional strength.

jaybee
04-11-2025, 05:00 PM
Stronger than new. You took lemons and made lemonade.

TBART70
04-12-2025, 11:34 AM
Amazing!

thinkfastroth
04-13-2025, 07:37 AM
Where did you get the front sway bar?

SoloC4
04-17-2025, 06:20 PM
Where did you get the front sway bar?

The front and rear anti-sway bars are from Speedway. They are splined and you order them by length and the style of arms that you need. The front bar passes through the frame rails and is supported with delrin bushings pressed into the tubes that were welded in. The rear is on custom brackets that bolt to the frame rails and the bar is supported by pillow block bearings.

SoloC4
05-05-2025, 07:47 PM
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I attended LS Fest West for the first time. It was a 2500+ mile road trip with my son. Had a great time and met a lot of great people. The car was well received and I had a chance to push it beyond its limits. I learned a lot about my car and it performed flawlessly. There were four disciplines that I participated in, a couple for the first time in my life. I couldn’t be happier with the results. What an amazing adventure.

ztk123
05-06-2025, 05:30 AM
Sounds like an awesome time!! And car too!

SoloC4
07-28-2025, 08:10 PM
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I was awarded the 3rd generation Class Winner at the Pacific Northwest “All Camaro Show”
This car has won 9 awards and counting in 2 seasons of shows while racing it between events.

Mcporguy
07-30-2025, 12:52 AM
I bought a new charcoal 83 Z new and was thrilled the HO put out 190HP. Your starter motor probably has more power. That 83 was voted best handling domestic w crude suspension in comparison. Nice project!

SoloC4
08-10-2025, 01:01 PM
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I had to upgrade my PS system with a larger cooler and a remote reservoir with 2 return inlets. During racing I had decreased steering assist at elevated temperatures and the teed return for the hydroboost was getting back pressure which would cause the brakes to drag. While I was in there I decided to replace the 40 year old plastic coolant tank with an aluminum tank.
(I don’t know why the pictures keep rotating 90 degrees when I post)

SoloC4
12-28-2025, 11:02 AM
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In search of faster lap times l had Turn One rebuild my 4th gen Camaro steering rack and the HP2 pump. The control valve in the rack failed and sent debris through the system which destroyed the original HP2 pump. While I was at it I decided to add a MOMO MOD 78 steering wheel for quicker input response. The original wheel is 14.5 inches in diameter and the MOMO wheel is 13 inches in diameter which allows less hand travel for the same input. I can’t wait for next race season.