81 project to begin
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 98
Likes: 16
81 project to begin
Hello,
I'm about to start phase 1 of my multi year complete 81 re-work. This year I think I’ll replace the rear suspension (as it is very soft) as well as replace the exhuast.
I'm planning this to be a 500HP car in a year or two, so I want to make sure what I put in it is planned for then not the alomst stock set-up in it now.
Any input to what to put in the rear suspension? I think it needs a new spring and shocks, I saw some pretty high end deals I was thinking about, but had to wonder if they are worth double the cost?
It alrready has headers so was thinking of either plutting hi-flow cats, or removing the cats and then may be flow master mufflers, any war stories on this type ofset-up? anything to look into to or to avoid?
Mostly looking for thoughts and experiances, good and bad, for both changes so I can figure out what I want and get moving on this beast.
Thanks,
Doug
I'm about to start phase 1 of my multi year complete 81 re-work. This year I think I’ll replace the rear suspension (as it is very soft) as well as replace the exhuast.
I'm planning this to be a 500HP car in a year or two, so I want to make sure what I put in it is planned for then not the alomst stock set-up in it now.
Any input to what to put in the rear suspension? I think it needs a new spring and shocks, I saw some pretty high end deals I was thinking about, but had to wonder if they are worth double the cost?
It alrready has headers so was thinking of either plutting hi-flow cats, or removing the cats and then may be flow master mufflers, any war stories on this type ofset-up? anything to look into to or to avoid?
Mostly looking for thoughts and experiances, good and bad, for both changes so I can figure out what I want and get moving on this beast.
Thanks,
Doug
Drifting
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,986
Likes: 21
From: Columbus MN
You have headers, but do you have true dual? That made a HUGE difference on my '80 with a GM 350 HO crate (which was THE best mod I made). You will need to notch your drivers side cross member like I did, but it's an easy half day job. That is one of the top 5 mods I made to my '80.
With 500 hp, you will have no problem going, but I recommend upgrading from the stock vacuum booster to Hydroboost for stopping. That will only set you back $300 or so if you make your own kit. Our son can machine you a plate with the correct thickness.
I also recommend Steeroids. Some C3'ers don't like how quick and light it is, but I would never go back. That's another upgrade in my top 5 list.
With 500 hp, you will have no problem going, but I recommend upgrading from the stock vacuum booster to Hydroboost for stopping. That will only set you back $300 or so if you make your own kit. Our son can machine you a plate with the correct thickness.
I also recommend Steeroids. Some C3'ers don't like how quick and light it is, but I would never go back. That's another upgrade in my top 5 list.
Racer
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 297
Likes: 3
81 project
Some say that the 80-82 rear differential will not hold up under high horsepower engines. I have a 383 stroker small block approx. 425 horsepower in my 80 with a richmond 6-speed with 4.10 rear gear ratio. I have not driven the car very much, but I have a backup rear differential from 79 back in case my 80 gear does not hold up. I am going to drive the car as is and see what the 80 diff. will hold for now. As far as the dual exhaust, same some grief and just install a older crossmember from a true dual exhaust vette from the 60 or 70 models. It will just bolt in. I did it on my 80, bought a used crossmember for $50 from a used parts dealer.
