Sick Six-Speed
For years, the GM aftermarket has struggled with the factory-built automatic transmission. It wasn't until recently where 800+ horsepower meant going backwards and installing a three- or two-speed transmission. On a full race car that is fine, but for a street cruiser you really need more gears than that. Now, using the latest developments in drivetrain technology, TCI has just released a 4L80E-based six-speed automatic transmission capable of holding upwards of 850 hp. When used with the optional paddle shifter, you can have full control over all six forward gears, in a slick, high-tech package. TCI assures us that each transmission is fully tested before shipping and comes with a serialized spec sheet to prove it.
TCI Automotive, Dept. GMHTP, 151 Industrial Dr, Ashland, MS 38603; 866/776-9824; www.tciauto.com
Gorgeous Gauge
Nothing is worse than mismatched gauges, and until recently, you had no choice if you ran an aftermarket wideband oxygen sensor. Thanks to the folks over at AEM, we can finally get everything in one matching style, which is truly great news. Not only do they look good, but the new analog wideband gauges still ship with the industry standard Bosch sensor for accurate, dependable readings. Each gauge is adjustable to seven different colors, comes with either a black or white face and has interchangeable black and silver outer bezels. With a 0-5 volt analog output, you can hook this gauge right to your tuning software of choice for seamless data logging.
Advanced Engine Management, Dept. GMHTP, 2205 126th St, Unit A, Hawthorne, CA 90250; 310/484-2322; www.aempower.com
Killer Valvetrain
According to Lunati "These aren't your 'I just want to cruise around town going the speed limit' kind of valvetrain parts." Anything with that kind of warning is usually right up our alley and these new High RPM Hydraulic roller lifters don't disappoint. If you are a racer who constantly pushes the rpm limits of your LSx-based engine, but doesn't want the hassle of a solid roller setup, these are exactly what you have been looking for. Able to withstand outrageously high spring pressure (225-lb seat and 575-lb open) and featuring a new secured link bar system, these lifters are meant to take some abuse. Tested to over ten million cycles on Lunati's Spintron valvetrain dyno, you can rest assured that these lifters are going to work on race day.
Lunati, Dept. GMHTP, 11126 Willow Ridge Dr, Olive Branch, MS 38654; 662/892-1500; www.lunatipower.com
Got torque?
Some people believe that the stiffer the clutch pedal, the manlier the car. Luckily for the rest of us, SPEC Clutch understands that big horsepower and brutal torque should be fun, not a workout. The newest line of twin billet multi-disc clutches for the LS9/ZR1 can hold upwards of 1,500 lb-ft of torque and still drive with near stock pedal feel. Above feeling great, they offer a long, maintenance-free life and come ready to bolt in to your new ZR1. Depending on your specific application they ship with dampened, full-faced carbon graphite, fiber, or full metallic discs. All units are completely billet in construction and are milled to an industry leading 0.001-inch tolerances.
SPEC, Dept. GMHTP, 2490 Five Star Pkwy, Bessemer, AL 35022; 800/828-4379; www.specclutch.com
Drop-Top Header
If you own an '87-92 F-body convertible, chances are your header panel is in much worse shape today than it was 20 years ago. Until now, you just had to deal with it and try not to notice. If you are lucky (and patient) it is possible to find some good quality used ones but now, thanks to the folks over at Hawks Third Generation, you can get a brand new, reproduction header panel. These panels are a direct replacement for your cracked units and will complement any interior restoration nicely. Currently only the '87-88 panel is available, but the '89-92 panels are already in the works.
Hawks Third Generation, Dept. GMHTP, 201 Noble Rd, Easley, SC 29640; 864/855-2694; www.hawksthirdgenparts.com
Safety First
As cramped as our modern engine bays are, moving your battery to the trunk is a great idea. Not only do you free up some much needed space, but you can get weight over the back tires, which improves transfer and 60-foot times. With the new sealed battery box from Moroso (PN 74051) it has never been easier and cleaner to do a proper, legal battery relocation. This kit comes complete with everything you need to meet NHRA/IHRA and SCCA specifications, including a quick-lock top and external vent tube. Since it is completely sealed, there is no need to install a rear firewall, which saves you both time and money. Use with the Moroso battery cable kit (PN 74055) and avoid trips to the electronics shop for cables and accessories.
Moroso Performance Products, Dept. GMHTP, 80 Carter Dr, Guilford, CT 06437; 203/453-6571; www.moroso.com