The Beginning...

The project at hand for the upcoming Summer is somewhat daunting.  Take a 1996 Impala SS with 180k on the clock and make it better.  Sounds pretty simple but assembling and installing an LT1 is all new to me.  My daily driver Camaro which the Impala will be replacing is LS based and I have just a bit more knowledge in that area.

The LT1 we will be installing is a stroked Golen 383 with almost every aftermarket goodie you can find, or could find.  The parts shelf has been piling up for years and now it is time to put it all together.  As I build, assemble and troubleshoot this project, updates and status reports will be submitted here.  So right now, phase one:

The engine is in it's crate and the new engine stand is waiting.  All of our parts from headers, Trick Flow Heads, MSD Ignition, Edelbrock Intake and tons more are waiting to be bolted up.  I have been researching and learning for the past week now and we're ready to start assembling.  The next update will be here when the engine is mounted and good to go. 

Sometimes in life, a minivan or family hauler is needed.  This is one of those times, but I've decided to not go quietly into adulthood and also have decided to not drop $50k plus on a CTS-V or new Chevy SS.  The Impala has been in the family since day one and it will stay in the family for the next few years.  I'm super excited to rebuild a great car that has never let us down.  Check back often as we post updates on this page and everywhere else you can find Hoagies Garage.  Hope you enjoy as much as I plan to!  Pictures will be here soon too...