Archer_Shannon

Shannon and Aaron Archer

1967 RS/SS Camaro 1968 Impala SS427 Convertible

Originally a plain-jane 6cyl automatic car in Marina Blue, this car was modified repeatedly over the last 40 years. Aaron purchased the Camaro as a Christmas present for Shannon, and it immediately was given one of the coveted parking spots in the garage. The car had been mostly converted to the RS/SS trim complete with a 350/T10 combo. This 67 still has its original open 3.08 10-bolt rear end. The current Red on Black scheme was done by a previous owner, and Shannon wants to change it. The first mods where a new Edelbrock 1406 AFB, the addition of a power drum brake booster, and a new Ididit tilt steering column and a decent clutch. A set of bolt on traction bars highlighted the age of the rear mono-leafs, so they were replaced. After a year of playing with the car in this state, the need to replace a door hinge cascaded into a rather dramatic change to the driveline of this car. When the front end sheetmetal had been removed, the engine bay almost begged for an upgrade.

After a few nights of internet research, it was determined that a Gen III engine and transmission would be a perfect, cost effective upgrade. From the time a suitable motor/trans was sourced (LS1/T56 combo out of a 2002 WS6 Trans-am), to the day it drove home from the exhaust shop was exactly 3 months. The project started in late March with the hopes of having it ready for the 2007 CarCraft Nationals. All work was performed in the small attached garage by this wife and husband team with the exception of the stainless dual exhaust and new driveshaft. The buildup was documented fully using an fquick.com garage and LS1tech.com.

The results are impressive, and the car is very drivable with its modern braking and suspension setup. The quick ratio steering gear and altered caster/camber give this 40 year old car a modern feel in the twisties, even on the skinny 14 inch wheels. The 6 speed trans with double overdrive returns an average of 27mpg, and really gives the driver a lot of control. The incredible torque curve of the LS1 makes it impossible to be in the wrong gear. During the swap, the front engine harness was rebuilt and modified to allow for brighter headlights, modern control for the headlight doors, 5 speed delay wipers, and a safer, stronger charging system. The interior sports a console with functioning gauges which is relocated 2 inches to the rear to allow for full travel of the shifter. The original shift plate could not be used, and a leather boot and bezel where fabricated.

Future plans include bringing the car to bare metal for paint and body work, new glass and weather stripping, and a conversion to the Deluxe Parchment interior. The cowl induction hood will be replaced with a 67 SS style hood. Final paint color has not been determined at this time. Replacement of the rear end with a posi-12 bolt is in the cards, as well as a performance re-build on the transmission. 15x7 rallye wheels with 60 series performance tires are upcoming. There are many engine bay upgrades in the works, including the possible addition of a high helix supercharger. The car has been a hit at local shows, and was well received at CarCraft Nats. Not bad for a girls first swap.

Well, time has moved on, and Shannon has passed away. I miss her terribly. I have continued to work on her car, and you can find a lot of details in the forum. I have also added another Impala to the collection. It is rather rare, and I am happy to have it.

-Aaron