GM G-Body: Performance Upgrades 1978 - 1988

The General Motors G-Body is one of the manufacturer's most popular chassis, and includes cars such as Chevrolet Malibu, Monte Carlo, and El Camino; the Buick Regal, Grand National, and GNX; the Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme; the Pontiac Grand Prix, and more. This traditional and affordable front engine/rear-wheel-drive design lends itself to common upgrades and modifications for a wide range of high-performance applications, from drag racing to road racing. Many of the vehicles GM produced using this chassis were powered by V-8 engines, and others had popular turbocharged V-6 configurations. Some of the special-edition vehicles were outfitted with exclusive performance upgrades, which can be easily adapted to other G-Body vehicles.

Knowing which vehicles were equipped with which options, and how to best incorporate all the best-possible equipment is thoroughly covered in this book. A solid collection of upgrades including brakes, suspension, and the installation of GMs most popular modern engine-the LS-Series V-8-are all covered in great detail. The aftermarket support for this chassis is huge, and the interchangeability and affordability are a big reason for its popularity. It's the last mass-produced V-8/rear-drive chassis that enthusiasts can afford and readily modify.


TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• Evolution not Revolution: G-Body History 
• A-Body Becomes G-Body 
• Chevrolet
• Pontiac 
• Oldsmobile 
• Buick 

• On the Hunt: Finding Your Ideal G-Body 
• Choosing a Model 
• Setting Performance Goals 
• Creating a Budget 
• General Inspection 
• Rust Issues 
• Body Damage 
• Chassis Considerations 

• Maximizing Stopping Power: Stock and Aftermarket Brakes 
• Hydroboost Brake System 
• Powermaster Brake System 
• Brake Upgrades 
• Spindles 
• Brake Proportioning Valve 
• Brake Lines 
• Brake Conversions 
• Aftermarket Brake Systems 

• Getting a Grip: Front Suspension Performance 
• Component Options 
• Stock Control Arms 
• Aftermarket Control Arms 
• Sway Bars 
• Shocks 
• Springs 

• Handling on Rails: Steering System Upgrades 
• Steering Box 
• Rack-and-Pinion Conversion 
• Power Steering Hose 
• Power Steering Pump 

• Hooking Up: High-Performance Rear Suspension 
• Control Arms 
• Bushings 
• Sway Bars 
• Shocks 
• Air Bag Suspension 

• Building a Strong Foundation: Chassis and Frame Upgrades 
• Separate Frame from Body 
• Frame Rail Boxing 
• Roll Bar and Roll Cage Installation 
• Crossmembers 
• Wheel Clearance 
• Aftermarket Chassis 

• Putting the Power Down: High-Performance Differentials and Axles 
• GM 10- or 12-Bolt 
• Ford 9-Inch 
• Dana 60 
• Budget Option 
• Stock Axle Assembly Upgrades 
• Ring-and-Pinion Gears 
• Pinion Supports and Yokes 
• Axle Shafts 
• Wheel Studs 
• Limited-Slips 
• Detroit Lockers 
• Spools 
• Differential Covers 
• Back Braces 
• Gear Cases 

• Get Into Gear: Manual and Automatic Transmissions 
• Powerglide 
• Turbo Hydra-Matic 
• New-Generation Transmissions 
• OEM Manual Transmissions 
• Aftermarket Manual Transmission

• A High-Performance Trans-Formation: Manual Transmission Swaps
• Transmission Fit 
• Clutch Pedal 
• Driveshaft 
• Speedometer Drive 
• Shifter 

• A Higher Power: Engine Swaps 
• Traditional V-8 Power 
• LS Series 
• Engine Mounts 
• Wiring and Engine Management 
• Exhaust 
• Intake 
• Carburetor or EFI 
• Fuel System 
• Cooling System 
• Swap Kits 
• Gauges 1
• Accessories 

• Driving in the Lap of Luxury: Performance Interior Upgrades 
• Gauges 
• Wiring Harness 
• Steering Wheel 
• Shifter 
• Seats 
• Safety Restraints