While the first-generation Chevy Camaros and Pontiac Firebirds are iconic cars that command high sale prices in restored and unmodified form, the second-generation Camaros and Firebirds are much more affordable. These Camaros often sell for only a few thousand dollars, and as a relative bargain compared to the early cars, many owners use these cars as a blank canvas to build an all-out performance car. Not only are the second-generation cars great platforms for modification, owners don't have to feel guilty about heavily modifying an extremely rare or valuable collector car that the first-generation cars represent.
Several million Camaros and Firebirds were built from 1970-1981. Many of these were sparsely equipped cars with six-cylinder or small V-8 engines and are perfect candidates for a full pro-touring treatment. There is a huge and growing amount of aftermarket support for these cars, with engine, drivetrain, brake, steering, and suspension parts being offered. Many owners are installing multi-link or Air Ride suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, quicker steering gears, stroker or late-model engines, modern overdrive transmissions, and other cutting-edge performance parts.
Like all editions in the Performance Projects series, this book covers the wide range of modifications, from borderline basic to in-depth and complex. Included modifications are supercharger installs, head swaps, ignition and carburetor mods, brake upgrades, transmission, differential and driveline upgrades, engine bolt-ons, multi-link rear suspensions, and more. This book is an essential tool for the second-gen enthusiast looking to modify their car.
The second-generation Camaros are more than 30 years old, and since these cars rolled off the production line, automotive technology has improved by leaps and bounds. Modern suspension, brake, steering, and powertrain technology can be installed on these affordable classics, and as a result, they can be transformed into ultimate street-going cars.
Author Jeff Tann shows you how to transform a bone-stock, second-generation Camaro or Firebird into an agile, refined, and fast muscle car that rivals brand-new-car performance. You learn how to install a set of tubular A-arms and coil-over shocks to greatly improve suspension performance and road holding. In addition, the book takes you through the process of bolting on large aftermarket disc brakes to vastly improve stopping power and vehicle safety. Tann covers welding in aftermarket wheel tubs to accommodate much larger tires for improved grip and safety. He reveals how to modify the frame to install a multi-link rear suspension. But that’s just the start; Camaro Performance Projects: 1970-1981 also explains how to install subframe connectors and new gauges so you keep tabs on the engine’s current condition, as well as the best heads and cams for a particular setup.
If you’ve been looking for a comprehensive and authoritative guide for turning a common Camaro and Firebird into a high-performance street machine, you have it in your hands.
