82 camaro

Same post as in shop talk


OK. I have a 82 camaro with stock suspension and currently have no problems with traction. However, I will be upgrading my power plant (400 hp 355 to a 550-575hp 408). I am currently running a very short tire (26" x 10") and I am afraid that I will be unable to get my car to hook. I just recently purchased some Lakewood Traction Action Lift Bars and was wondering if anyone had any experience with this set up. My goal was not to make major modifications to the rear suspension and the Lakewood bolts straight in using the stock suspension. Any help, advice or previous experience would be greatly apreciated.

Scott

ive not used that kit, but it looks great and they talk it up a lot. thats an awful short tire for that kind of power. if its not a slick you will probably run into some difficulty.

It is a very short tire but it is a slick. The reason for the short tire was 1) I had some 383 gears and wanted to help my ratio a bit and 2) the guy I bought the car from had lowered springs on the car and without changing the springs I would not have had clearance. I plan to go back to stock height but I have several passes left on my slicks.

Something I did not mention was that all original suspension will be transfered to a GM 8 3/4" rear.

How about Cal Track bars? I hear they work good and many guys use them running very quick.
My car is simular to your in weight and size however Im running a 427 SBC over 650hp running on 10.5 X 26 inch tires ET streets 3.70 gears. My car has the 90-10s ladder bars and coil overs though and Curry 9+ rear end shortened. Alot of money and time installing everthing. I would worry about your rear end next adding that much more power.

Yes if he still has the little 7.5" 10 bolt in his Camaro it won't last long with that hp and sticky tires. Seems like they will hold to about a 1.6xx 60ft any quicker than that and they tend to grenade.

Yes, I still have the little 7.5" 10 bolt but will not attempt it with the new motor. I am currently running a 355 with only 400hp so I don't think I need to worry about the rear end just yet.