Acknowledgments 4 Chapter 1: Evolution not Revolution: G-Body History 5 A-Body Becomes G-Body 5 Chevrolet 6 Pontiac 10 Oldsmobile 10 Buick 11 Chapter 2: On the Hunt: Finding Your Ideal G-Body 15 Choosing a Model 15 Setting Performance Goals 16 Creating a Budget 17 General Inspection 20 Rust Issues 25 Body Damage 28 Chassis Considerations 28 Chapter 3: Maximizing Stopping Power: Stock and Aftermarket Brakes 29 Hydroboost Brake System 30 Powermaster Brake System 31 Brake Upgrades 32 Spindles 33 Brake Proportioning Valve 36 Brake Lines 37 Brake Conversions 42 Aftermarket Brake Systems 43 Chapter 4: Getting a Grip: Front Suspension Performance 47 Component Options 47 Stock Control Arms 48 Aftermarket Control Arms 51 Sway Bars 54 Shocks 56 Springs 57 Chapter 5: Handling on Rails: Steering System Upgrades 60 Steering Box 60 Rack-and-Pinion Conversion 62 Power Steering Hose 67 Power Steering Pump 67 Chapter 6: Hooking Up: High-Performance Rear Suspension 70 Control Arms 70 Bushings 71 Sway Bars 73 Shocks 73 Air Bag Suspension 73 Chapter 7: Building a Strong Foundation: Chassis and Frame Upgrades 77 Separate Frame from Body 77 Frame Rail Boxing 79 Roll Bar and Roll Cage Installation 79 Crossmembers 83 Wheel Clearance 85 Aftermarket Chassis 88 Chapter 8: Putting the Power Down: High-Performance Differentials and Axles 90 GM 10- or 12-Bolt 91 Ford 9-Inch 92 Dana 60 93 Budget Option 93 Stock Axle Assembly Upgrades 94 Ring-and-Pinion Gears 95 Pinion Supports and Yokes 95 Axle Shafts 95 Wheel Studs 96 Limited-Slips 96 Detroit Lockers 96 Spools 97 Differential Covers 97 Back Braces 98 Gear Cases 98 Chapter 9: Get Into Gear: Manual and Automatic Transmissions 100 Powerglide 100 Turbo Hydra-Matic 100 New-Generation Transmissions 103 OEM Manual Transmissions 104 Aftermarket Manual Transmissions 104 Chapter 10: A High-Performance Trans-Formation: Manual Transmission Swaps 107 Transmission Fit 109 Clutch Pedal 109 Driveshaft 111 Speedometer Drive 111 Shifter 111 Chapter 11: A Higher Power: Engine Swaps 112 Traditional V-8 Power 113 LS Series 116 Engine Mounts 119 Wiring and Engine Management 120 Exhaust 121 Intake 121 Carburetor or EFI 123 Fuel System 125 Cooling System 129 Swap Kits 130 Gauges 132 Accessories 133 Chapter 12: Driving in the Lap of Luxury: Performance Interior Upgrades 135 Gauges 135 Wiring Harness 138 Steering Wheel 138 Shifter 139 Seats 140 Safety Restraints 142 Source Guide 144.