Project '67 Nightmare Part 2 - Engine Makeover

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.

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 '04 Pontiac GTO LS1 engine...        read full caption This '04 Pontiac GTO LS1 engine will deliver Project '67 Nightmare's basic power. Follow along as Bill Markel installed both performance and beauty to '67 Nightmare's horsepower.	The original GM LS1 pulley...        read full caption The original GM LS1 pulley assembly, alternator, A/C compressor, and power-steering pump will be replaced with a new March billet-aluminum system.	The delivery of air/fuel mixture...        read full caption The delivery of air/fuel mixture to the intake ports and combustion chamber is the secret to improved torque/horsepower gains and overall engine performance. Professional Performance Products will replace the OEM intake manifold with its Typhoon polished aluminum intake manifold, cast aluminum 85mm throttle body, aluminum red anodized fuel rails, fuel regulator, braided fuel hose, and AN fittings.
To achieve a greater ignition...        read full caption To achieve a greater ignition spark and efficiency, MSD Multi-Spark Coil (MSC) Blaster ignition coils will replace the factory Gen III engine coils.	Whether the engine is spinning...        read full caption Whether the engine is spinning or sleeping, the March Performance Products polished billet aluminum, alternator, power-steering pump, and pulleys will add to its eye-appeal.	A Hot Rod Air Products Sanden...        read full caption A Hot Rod Air Products Sanden air conditioning compressor will help to create a cool and comfortable environment for the occupants inside of the cab.