LSX TV Forums http://www.lsxtv.com/forum en Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:54:40 GMT vBulletin 5 http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/images/misc/rss.jpg LSX TV Forums http://www.lsxtv.com/forum Video: Corvette Grand Sport Hot Lap Around the Nürburgring http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/video-corvette-grand-sport-hot-lap-3081.html Tue, 07 Sep 2010 18:44:10 GMT Built in the 1920’s around the German village of Nürburg, the Nürburgring is one of the oldest and toughest race tracks in the world. It has been called the Green Hell by Jackie Stewart, and many car companies test their cars against the grueling course and each other. The whole course is over 28 kilometers, or over 17 miles long. It is a demanding track on any car, and for many people, it is motorsports Nirvana.

For many car fans, the pinnacle of automotive achievement is the Chevy Corvette. Combine this with a trip to the Nürburgring, like this video from the FIA GT1 Championship Facebook page, and you’ve got almost ten minutes of automotive bliss.



The actual Corvette in question is a 2010 Grand Sport. A replacement for the Z51 package, the Grand Sport steals some small bits from higher end models like the Z06 and even the ZR-1. The result is a Corvette that still has 436 horsepower, but sounds and handles much better. It is right at home on the Nürburgring, and this video offers plenty of different angles to watch the action.

Much of the video is from a dash cam, which gives us a driver’s view of the course. The particular part of the track is called the Nordschleife, or the “North Loop”. This is the second longest track configuration, at over 14 miles long and with an abundance of cresting hills and dozens of sharp turns. If you’ve got ten minutes to waste, crank up the volume and turn on this video to see a Corvette at its best.

]]> Built in the 1920’s around the German village of Nürburg, the Nürburgring is one of the oldest and toughest race tracks in the world. It has been called the Green Hell by Jackie Stewart, and many car companies test their cars against the grueling course and each other. The whole course is over 28 kilometers, or over 17 miles long. It is a demanding track on any car, and for many people, it is motorsports Nirvana.



For many car fans, the pinnacle of automotive achievement is the Chevy Corvette. Combine this with a trip to the Nürburgring, like this video from the FIA GT1 Championship Facebook page, and you’ve got almost ten minutes of automotive bliss.







The actual Corvette in question is a 2010 Grand Sport. A replacement for the Z51 package, the Grand Sport steals some small bits from higher end models like the Z06 and even the ZR-1. The result is a Corvette that still has 436 horsepower, but sounds and handles much better. It is right at home on the Nürburgring, and this video offers plenty of different angles to watch the action.



Much of the video is from a dash cam, which gives us a driver’s view of the course. The particular part of the track is called the Nordschleife, or the “North Loop”. This is the second longest track configuration, at over 14 miles long and with an abundance of cresting hills and dozens of sharp turns. If you’ve got ten minutes to waste, crank up the volume and turn on this video to see a Corvette at its best.




Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version Name: nurburg.jpg Views: N/A Size: 41.6 KB ID: 3410  
]]> News Chris DeMorro http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/video-corvette-grand-sport-hot-lap-3081.html Video: Turbo Chevy Express Van Beats Corvette ZR-1 http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/video-turbo-chevy-express-van-beats-3080.html Tue, 07 Sep 2010 18:44:10 GMT Vans have been making something of a comeback in terms of coolness lately. Or maybe that was wagons. Most vans on the road these days are used by businesses, whereas twenty or thirty years ago living out of your van was the “hip” thing to do. Still, some of these vans can move out, thanks to modern powertrains and help from a few aftermarket modifications.

These two videos, the first of which found on the Tampa Bay Examiner, show a regular looking Chevy Express Van taking down the mighty Corvette ZR-1. How’d they do that?



We are a bit skeptical that this is a ZR-1 Corvette, as there is no definitive proof. The Express van’s mighty 72mm turbo drowns out almost all other sound in the video. Yes, that beige Express Van is equipped with a massive turbo. Why else would it be at a drag strip? The only other modification we’re told about is a Z06 cam in the otherwise stock 5.3 liter Vortec V8 engine. Supposedly, this 7,000 pound all-wheel drive van can run in the low 13’s down the ¼ mile, according to a commentator heard on the video.



Low 13’s are quick, but quick enough to beat the ZR-1? Not likely. The Corvette driver clearly bogged down on the launch, and the van’s all-wheel drive may have helped it out of the hole. Then again, in the second video, the van lines up, again, with the supposed ZR-1, and beats it, again. It also beats a number of Mitsubishi Lancer Evolutions, V8 Mustangs, a cammed LS1 Camaro, and supposedly even a NSX. Maybe this van really just is that bad ass? Watch both videos and judge for yourself.

]]> Vans have been making something of a comeback in terms of coolness lately. Or maybe that was wagons. Most vans on the road these days are used by businesses, whereas twenty or thirty years ago living out of your van was the “hip” thing to do. Still, some of these vans can move out, thanks to modern powertrains and help from a few aftermarket modifications.



These two videos, the first of which found on the Tampa Bay Examiner, show a regular looking Chevy Express Van taking down the mighty Corvette ZR-1. How’d they do that?







We are a bit skeptical that this is a ZR-1 Corvette, as there is no definitive proof. The Express van’s mighty 72mm turbo drowns out almost all other sound in the video. Yes, that beige Express Van is equipped with a massive turbo. Why else would it be at a drag strip? The only other modification we’re told about is a Z06 cam in the otherwise stock 5.3 liter Vortec V8 engine. Supposedly, this 7,000 pound all-wheel drive van can run in the low 13’s down the ¼ mile, according to a commentator heard on the video.







Low 13’s are quick, but quick enough to beat the ZR-1? Not likely. The Corvette driver clearly bogged down on the launch, and the van’s all-wheel drive may have helped it out of the hole. Then again, in the second video, the van lines up, again, with the supposed ZR-1, and beats it, again. It also beats a number of Mitsubishi Lancer Evolutions, V8 Mustangs, a cammed LS1 Camaro, and supposedly even a NSX. Maybe this van really just is that bad ass? Watch both videos and judge for yourself.




Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version Name: xpress.jpg Views: N/A Size: 68.7 KB ID: 3408  
]]> News Chris DeMorro http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/video-turbo-chevy-express-van-beats-3080.html Grand Am Rule Changes Level the Field for Camaros http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/grand-am-rule-changes-level-field-3078.html Tue, 07 Sep 2010 18:44:10 GMT Grand-Am officials have conceded that Mazda RX-8 cars enjoyed a weight advantage in the GT class of the Rolex Sports Car Series all season. New rules - including a new tire - were enacted to allow Camaros to finally compete on an even playing field. The result? Two Camaros from Stevenson Motorsports finished last weekend's Montreal race on the podium. The race marked the first time this season that both Stevenson cars finished on the podium together.


Photos: Grand Am

Regardless, a fourth place Montreal finish by Emil Assentato and Jeff Segal, driving the #69 FXDD Mazda RX-8, clinched the 2010 Manufacturers Championship for Mazda, their first Grand Touring title since 1991.

Andrew Davis qualified the #57 Camaro and came within a shade of winning the pole. Davis explains, "It was obvious to me during my initial laps in practice that the Stevenson Motorsports crew had done a great job preparing a fast car for us! After coming so close to grabbing the pole at the last event in Watkins Glen, I set out for the qualifying session determined to maximize the performance of the #57 Camaro."



"I broke the track record early in the session, and I initially felt that would be enough to keep me at the top of the time sheet. I continued to push both the car and myself to the limit when Mike Johnson came over the radio to tell me that Boris Said had stolen away my pole position!"



The Stevenson cars have been consistent performers through the season, with a 5th at Watkins Glen, a 7th in New Jersey, a third in Daytona and other top ten finishes. Racing incidents in Montreal may have kept the Camaros from showing their true potential, which is something that may become more evident in the season closing race at Miller Motorsports Park, in Toole, UT, which runs September 10-11.

]]> Grand-Am officials have conceded that Mazda RX-8 cars enjoyed a weight advantage in the GT class of the Rolex Sports Car Series all season. New rules - including a new tire - were enacted to allow Camaros to finally compete on an even playing field. The result? Two Camaros from Stevenson Motorsports finished last weekend's Montreal race on the podium. The race marked the first time this season that both Stevenson cars finished on the podium together.





Photos: Grand Am



Regardless, a fourth place Montreal finish by Emil Assentato and Jeff Segal, driving the #69 FXDD Mazda RX-8, clinched the 2010 Manufacturers Championship for Mazda, their first Grand Touring title since 1991.



Andrew Davis qualified the #57 Camaro and came within a shade of winning the pole. Davis explains, "It was obvious to me during my initial laps in practice that the Stevenson Motorsports crew had done a great job preparing a fast car for us! After coming so close to grabbing the pole at the last event in Watkins Glen, I set out for the qualifying session determined to maximize the performance of the #57 Camaro."







"I broke the track record early in the session, and I initially felt that would be enough to keep me at the top of the time sheet. I continued to push both the car and myself to the limit when Mike Johnson came over the radio to tell me that Boris Said had stolen away my pole position!"







The Stevenson cars have been consistent performers through the season, with a 5th at Watkins Glen, a 7th in New Jersey, a third in Daytona and other top ten finishes. Racing incidents in Montreal may have kept the Camaros from showing their true potential, which is something that may become more evident in the season closing race at Miller Motorsports Park, in Toole, UT, which runs September 10-11.




Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version Name: SteveCamaro-1.jpg Views: N/A Size: 181.2 KB ID: 3407  
]]> News Gordon McDonald http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/grand-am-rule-changes-level-field-3078.html 2010 Camaro GT4 Makes Successful European Debut At Nürburgring http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/2010-camaro-gt4-makes-successful-european-3077.html Tue, 07 Sep 2010 18:44:10 GMT American muscle may be made for Americans, but that doesn’t mean our cousins across the Atlantic can’t enjoy some gold old fashioned fast fun. The Germans and Scandinavians seem especially susceptible to the allure of American muscle cars like the Camaro, but the Dutch have also shown some interest in our big V8’s. GM has even started importing a limited number of Camaros to Europe through select dealers.

Equipe Verschuur, a Dutch motorsports entrepreneur, imported two 2010 Camaros to take part in the Dutch GT4 races. Planet LeMans carried the story of their successful debut at the Nürburgring, Germany’s famous 17-mile long test and race track.


Image: PlanetLeMans

Verschuur bought two 2010 Camaros and had Rally Motorsport Technologies of Mooreville, North Carolina outfit them for racing on the European circuit. This took longer than expected, though Verschuur did not mind the wait, as he planned to compete in the GT4 series. This is the Netherland’s highest ranking race series, so these Camaros would be facing some very serious competition from Europe. Then again, many of the other teams likely underestimated how effective two Camaros could be.

Mixed weather conditions at the Nürburgring over the weekend allowed the Verschuur team to test different racing scenarios. One Camaro is piloted by Mike Verschuur and Tim Bujis, while the 2nd car is driven by Donald Molenaar and Ardi van der Hoek. Molenaar and Hoek managed to be classified overall in 6th place out of 32 cars, and they finished race two in 4th and 5th place. A problem in qualifying led the other Camaro to finish 18th overall, finishing 9th and 15th place overall.

Not a bad showing for some American muscle against the Eurotrash, is it?

]]> American muscle may be made for Americans, but that doesn’t mean our cousins across the Atlantic can’t enjoy some gold old fashioned fast fun. The Germans and Scandinavians seem especially susceptible to the allure of American muscle cars like the Camaro, but the Dutch have also shown some interest in our big V8’s. GM has even started importing a limited number of Camaros to Europe through select dealers.



Equipe Verschuur, a Dutch motorsports entrepreneur, imported two 2010 Camaros to take part in the Dutch GT4 races. Planet LeMans carried the story of their successful debut at the Nürburgring, Germany’s famous 17-mile long test and race track.





Image: PlanetLeMans



Verschuur bought two 2010 Camaros and had Rally Motorsport Technologies of Mooreville, North Carolina outfit them for racing on the European circuit. This took longer than expected, though Verschuur did not mind the wait, as he planned to compete in the GT4 series. This is the Netherland’s highest ranking race series, so these Camaros would be facing some very serious competition from Europe. Then again, many of the other teams likely underestimated how effective two Camaros could be.



Mixed weather conditions at the Nürburgring over the weekend allowed the Verschuur team to test different racing scenarios. One Camaro is piloted by Mike Verschuur and Tim Bujis, while the 2nd car is driven by Donald Molenaar and Ardi van der Hoek. Molenaar and Hoek managed to be classified overall in 6th place out of 32 cars, and they finished race two in 4th and 5th place. A problem in qualifying led the other Camaro to finish 18th overall, finishing 9th and 15th place overall.



Not a bad showing for some American muscle against the Eurotrash, is it?




Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version Name: lemans3.jpg Views: N/A Size: 137.5 KB ID: 3406  
]]> News Chris DeMorro http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/2010-camaro-gt4-makes-successful-european-3077.html Football Star Eric Berry Gets His Own Customized NZ1200 Camaro http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/football-star-eric-berry-gets-his-3076.html Tue, 07 Sep 2010 18:44:10 GMT We may love motorsports, but many of us have been pining away for football season to start. Whether you root for the New York Giants or San Diego Chargers, football season means it is time for sacred Sundays, fantasy football, and lots of buffalo wings. It also means many newcomers will get their introduction to the “big leagues” where big paychecks are commonplace. Eric Berry, a monster safety who played for the University of Tennessee, was recently awarded a six-year, $60 million contract.

With all that money, he could have any car in the world. Naturally, he choose a 2010 Camaro, though not just any Camaro. Built by National Speed, which is located in Charlotte, North Carolina, this was going to be a 1,200 horsepower “Eric Berry” edition, and Camaro5 has the complete build thread.


Images: JusticePete

Based on National Speed’s own NZ1200 Camaro, a monster in its own right, the Eric Berry Edition gets a few custom upgrades of its own. Starting with a base Camaro SS, National Speed removed the 6.2 liter V8 engine and replaced it with a 427 cubic inch equipped with twin turbochargers.

This is supposedly good for 1,200 horsepower and 1,100 ft-lbs of torque on pump gas. If that is too much horsepower, it can be toned down to 1,000 ponies, or even 800 if you just need to get across town for some groceries real quick. Furthermore, the engine has all the strongest components possible for a build like this, making it all but bulletproof.



1,200 horsepower is great, but no stock suspension in the world can hold up to that. So National Speed equipped Eric Berry’s Camaro with a world-class suspension capable of up to 1.3 lateral g’s on the skidpad. That is some serious handling.



Huge brakes back up the suspension and monster engine, as well as a new custom rear end. Unlike other NZ1200 Camaros, this one gets a special paint scheme, wheels, and interior just for Eric Berry, though anybody can buy such a car if they’ve got the cash. The estimated cost is around $149,000, though $10,000 from every NZ1200-EB built will go to the Eric Berry foundation.



This is one of the most complete Camaro builds we have seen so far. Make sure you check out the Camaro5 thread for even more pictures, and it should be completed soon. It is good to see a football player’s tastes in cars not straying too far from home for once. Mr. Berry doesn’t need no Bugatti or Maserati, just a fast, old fashioned Bowtie.

]]> We may love motorsports, but many of us have been pining away for football season to start. Whether you root for the New York Giants or San Diego Chargers, football season means it is time for sacred Sundays, fantasy football, and lots of buffalo wings. It also means many newcomers will get their introduction to the “big leagues” where big paychecks are commonplace. Eric Berry, a monster safety who played for the University of Tennessee, was recently awarded a six-year, $60 million contract.



With all that money, he could have any car in the world. Naturally, he choose a 2010 Camaro, though not just any Camaro. Built by National Speed, which is located in Charlotte, North Carolina, this was going to be a 1,200 horsepower “Eric Berry” edition, and Camaro5 has the complete build thread.





Images: JusticePete



Based on National Speed’s own NZ1200 Camaro, a monster in its own right, the Eric Berry Edition gets a few custom upgrades of its own. Starting with a base Camaro SS, National Speed removed the 6.2 liter V8 engine and replaced it with a 427 cubic inch equipped with twin turbochargers.



This is supposedly good for 1,200 horsepower and 1,100 ft-lbs of torque on pump gas. If that is too much horsepower, it can be toned down to 1,000 ponies, or even 800 if you just need to get across town for some groceries real quick. Furthermore, the engine has all the strongest components possible for a build like this, making it all but bulletproof.







1,200 horsepower is great, but no stock suspension in the world can hold up to that. So National Speed equipped Eric Berry’s Camaro with a world-class suspension capable of up to 1.3 lateral g’s on the skidpad. That is some serious handling.







Huge brakes back up the suspension and monster engine, as well as a new custom rear end. Unlike other NZ1200 Camaros, this one gets a special paint scheme, wheels, and interior just for Eric Berry, though anybody can buy such a car if they’ve got the cash. The estimated cost is around $149,000, though $10,000 from every NZ1200-EB built will go to the Eric Berry foundation.







This is one of the most complete Camaro builds we have seen so far. Make sure you check out the Camaro5 thread for even more pictures, and it should be completed soon. It is good to see a football player’s tastes in cars not straying too far from home for once. Mr. Berry doesn’t need no Bugatti or Maserati, just a fast, old fashioned Bowtie.




Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version Name: berry1.jpg Views: N/A Size: 132.9 KB ID: 3405  
]]> News Chris DeMorro http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/football-star-eric-berry-gets-his-3076.html Good article http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/good-article-3086.html Mon, 06 Sep 2010 06:23:50 GMT Good article!!! ]]> Good article!!! ]]> chrisft43 http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/good-article-3086.html New Billet Valve Covers are a HOT item! http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/new-billet-valve-covers-hot-item-3085.html Fri, 03 Sep 2010 17:45:41 GMT This “Patent Pending” product has been designed to upgrade & replace stock GM valve covers for C6 & Z06 Corvettes 2005-2010 And 2010 Camaros, specifically the LS1,LS2, LS3, LS6, LS99 and LS7 motors. Included is the new Stealth "Spider" coil bracket assembly.


In Stock @ $699.00
http://www.billetcustomproducts.com ]]> This “Patent Pending” product has been designed to upgrade & replace stock GM valve covers for C6 & Z06 Corvettes 2005-2010 And 2010 Camaros, specifically the LS1,LS2, LS3, LS6, LS99 and LS7 motors. Included is the new Stealth "Spider" coil bracket assembly.





In Stock @ $699.00

http://www.billetcustomproducts.com ]]> Tech Discussion Bruce1 http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/new-billet-valve-covers-hot-item-3085.html <![CDATA[Hotchkis' All-New '10 Camaro Race Pack]]> http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/hotchkis-all-new-10-camaro-race-3084.html Fri, 03 Sep 2010 15:30:32 GMT Hotchkis Sport Suspension was one of the first to design and test performance suspension for classic muscle cars. Now, nearly two decades later, Hotchkis is one of the leaders for both classic and today's modern muscle cars. As the people celebrate the first birthday of the resurrected Camaro, Hotchkis just announced their comprehensive "Race Pack" suspension system for the new pony car.


  • Tuned, balanced system provides incredible handling, traction and driver control
  • Reduced sub frame flex and wheel hop under hard acceleration
  • Sleek, lowered stance with sporty, yet comfortable ride
  • Bolt-In installation no vehicle modifications
  • Upgraded 3-piece PTFE lined End Links
  • Chassis Max Strut Brace designed to clear Magnuson supercharger systems



Original Press Release:

Santa Fe Springs, Calif. (August 2010) – As the 2010 Camaro approaches its first birthday, owners are making more performance modifications than ever before. Superchargers and other engine upgrades make it possible to see huge horsepower numbers and incredible straight-line results. Racers looking to combat the Camaro's serious understeer, body roll and excessive wheel hop can now put the power down in the turns with the Camaro Race Pack from Hotchkis Sport Suspension.

Hotchkis engineers poured over track testing data from both stock and modified Camaros to develop a balanced handling system that is comfortable enough for the street but well balanced for the serious track enthusiast. The new Race Pack features the Sport Springs made from cold wound high-tensile steel that lower ride height 1-inch with a higher spring rate (210 lbs/in front, 440 lbs/in rear) for superior performance, paired with tubular front (1.25") and adjustable rear (1.00") competition sway bars, which reduce body roll and allow more aggressive driving styles including throttle-induced oversteer. Using information from hundreds of hours of track time and real-world street driving, the Hotchkis R&D team perfected high quality 3-piece lined end links and a strong, lightweight Strut Tower Brace designed to clear Magnuson superchargers. The Race Pack also includes the Hotchkis Chassis Brace, a unique aluminum brace manufactured out of laser cut, TIG welded elliptical aluminum tubing for superior strength and the best ground clearance on the market.

Like all Hotchkis Performance suspension products, Race Pack components are manufactured in the USA, come with complete hardware, greasable bushings and are finished in durable powdercoat. This bolt on upgrade can transform your Camaro into a canyon carver in minutes with basic hand tools.

Source
Hotchkis Sport Suspension
www.Hotchkis.net
(888) 735-6430 ]]> Hotchkis Sport Suspension was one of the first to design and test performance suspension for classic muscle cars. Now, nearly two decades later, Hotchkis is one of the leaders for both classic and today's modern muscle cars. As the people celebrate the first birthday of the resurrected Camaro, Hotchkis just announced their comprehensive "Race Pack" suspension system for the new pony car.





  • Tuned, balanced system provides incredible handling, traction and driver control

  • Reduced sub frame flex and wheel hop under hard acceleration

  • Sleek, lowered stance with sporty, yet comfortable ride

  • Bolt-In installation no vehicle modifications

  • Upgraded 3-piece PTFE lined End Links

  • Chassis Max Strut Brace designed to clear Magnuson supercharger systems







Original Press Release:



Santa Fe Springs, Calif. (August 2010) – As the 2010 Camaro approaches its first birthday, owners are making more performance modifications than ever before. Superchargers and other engine upgrades make it possible to see huge horsepower numbers and incredible straight-line results. Racers looking to combat the Camaro's serious understeer, body roll and excessive wheel hop can now put the power down in the turns with the Camaro Race Pack from Hotchkis Sport Suspension.



Hotchkis engineers poured over track testing data from both stock and modified Camaros to develop a balanced handling system that is comfortable enough for the street but well balanced for the serious track enthusiast. The new Race Pack features the Sport Springs made from cold wound high-tensile steel that lower ride height 1-inch with a higher spring rate (210 lbs/in front, 440 lbs/in rear) for superior performance, paired with tubular front (1.25") and adjustable rear (1.00") competition sway bars, which reduce body roll and allow more aggressive driving styles including throttle-induced oversteer. Using information from hundreds of hours of track time and real-world street driving, the Hotchkis R&D team perfected high quality 3-piece lined end links and a strong, lightweight Strut Tower Brace designed to clear Magnuson superchargers. The Race Pack also includes the Hotchkis Chassis Brace, a unique aluminum brace manufactured out of laser cut, TIG welded elliptical aluminum tubing for superior strength and the best ground clearance on the market.



Like all Hotchkis Performance suspension products, Race Pack components are manufactured in the USA, come with complete hardware, greasable bushings and are finished in durable powdercoat. This bolt on upgrade can transform your Camaro into a canyon carver in minutes with basic hand tools.



Source

Hotchkis Sport Suspension

www.Hotchkis.net

(888) 735-6430
Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version Name: link.jpg Views: N/A Size: 106.3 KB ID: 3416   Click image for larger version Name: link-1.jpg Views: N/A Size: 76.4 KB ID: 3414  
]]> New Products Kevin Shaw http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/hotchkis-all-new-10-camaro-race-3084.html GM Trademarks “Stingray” Name http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/gm-trademarks-stingray-name-3074.html Fri, 03 Sep 2010 12:44:00 GMT Car companies have long been in the habit of naming their cars after creatures from the animal kingdom. There is the Impala, the Mustang, the Cougar, the Barracuda, and many many more. Perhaps the most proper car-creature name though belongs to the “Stingray” Corvette. With its flat, wide body, the 1963 splint-window Stingray Corvette just sort of looked like a Stingray.

Jalopnik reports that GM had trademarked the Stingray name. So does that mean the next generation Corvette could indeed be based on the Stingray concept, and may even invoke the name once again?



Prior to 1963, the Corvette had not exactly become an American icon yet. That all changed with the split-window coupe with its flat body and aggressive looks. The first Corvettes of the 2nd generation were called Sting Rays, which later changed simply to Stingray. The name has been off the automotive radar for some time, and many famous names have been hijacked for other purposes. So is GM protecting their property, or getting ready to bring the Stingray back?

According to GM, no Stingray…at least not that they can talk about. The protecting of a copyright is not indicative of a forthcoming car. GM insists it is protecting the name, as there are other Stingrays out there. Like the Subaru Wagon R, which has a Stingray trim level which is mostly just aesthetic baubles. Still, would GM bother trademarking Stingray if they did not intend to bring it back sometime in the near future? Our gut says no, and the Corvette Stingray concept has received consistently good feedback. We’ll just have to wait for the next generation Corvette to find out for sure.

]]> Car companies have long been in the habit of naming their cars after creatures from the animal kingdom. There is the Impala, the Mustang, the Cougar, the Barracuda, and many many more. Perhaps the most proper car-creature name though belongs to the “Stingray” Corvette. With its flat, wide body, the 1963 splint-window Stingray Corvette just sort of looked like a Stingray.



Jalopnik reports that GM had trademarked the Stingray name. So does that mean the next generation Corvette could indeed be based on the Stingray concept, and may even invoke the name once again?







Prior to 1963, the Corvette had not exactly become an American icon yet. That all changed with the split-window coupe with its flat body and aggressive looks. The first Corvettes of the 2nd generation were called Sting Rays, which later changed simply to Stingray. The name has been off the automotive radar for some time, and many famous names have been hijacked for other purposes. So is GM protecting their property, or getting ready to bring the Stingray back?



According to GM, no Stingray…at least not that they can talk about. The protecting of a copyright is not indicative of a forthcoming car. GM insists it is protecting the name, as there are other Stingrays out there. Like the Subaru Wagon R, which has a Stingray trim level which is mostly just aesthetic baubles. Still, would GM bother trademarking Stingray if they did not intend to bring it back sometime in the near future? Our gut says no, and the Corvette Stingray concept has received consistently good feedback. We’ll just have to wait for the next generation Corvette to find out for sure.




Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version Name: Corvette-Stingray-Concept-badge-logo-lg.jpg Views: N/A Size: 49.5 KB ID: 3417  
]]> News Chris DeMorro http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/gm-trademarks-stingray-name-3074.html Video: Bumblebee Camaro Front-and-Center On Transformers 3 http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/video-bumblebee-camaro-front-center-transformers-3069.html Fri, 03 Sep 2010 12:11:57 GMT There have been a dearth in good “car” movies in the past few years. It seems Hollywood is straying away from car movies and more towards remakes. The only recent, good movie related mostly to cars we have seen as of late was Transformers (Transformers 2, not so good). As expected, a third Transformers movie is on its way, sans Megan Fox but still carrying on with Bumblebee as a Camaro.

Over at Camaro5 a bevy of YouTube videos have been posted showing filming of a massive battle scene set in Chicago. Front and center of this battle is of course, Bumblebee, and he is sure looking good in his third iteration.



We’re not sure what the plot of the third installment of Transformers will be. All we know is that Shia Lebeouf returns as Sam Witwicky. Three of the videos show different angles of what appears to be a gun battle running through the streets of Chicago. Bumblebee comes careening around a corner and slides to a stop, where Lebeouf and a female run from the car and take cover.



This is where we assume Bumblebee and the rest of the Transformers turn into their battle mode and kick some Decepticon butt. Bumblebee looks good, as another video shows a procession of Transformers cars up close.





The Autobot badge is plain to see, and Bumblebee has a new front fascia and some new stripes as well. Other cars in the procession included a Ferrari (rumored to be Sunstreaker), Mercedes (expected to either be Wheeljack or Perceptor), and the Corvette Stingray concept (also known as Sideswipe from the previous film). The barely seen Autobot "Jolt," Chevrolet's Volt from the second installment is expected to be absent from this third and final sequel.



So what happened to Optimus Prime? Prime's been spotted with his iconic trailer weaving through traffic in downtown Chicago.



]]> There have been a dearth in good “car” movies in the past few years. It seems Hollywood is straying away from car movies and more towards remakes. The only recent, good movie related mostly to cars we have seen as of late was Transformers (Transformers 2, not so good). As expected, a third Transformers movie is on its way, sans Megan Fox but still carrying on with Bumblebee as a Camaro.



Over at Camaro5 a bevy of YouTube videos have been posted showing filming of a massive battle scene set in Chicago. Front and center of this battle is of course, Bumblebee, and he is sure looking good in his third iteration.







We’re not sure what the plot of the third installment of Transformers will be. All we know is that Shia Lebeouf returns as Sam Witwicky. Three of the videos show different angles of what appears to be a gun battle running through the streets of Chicago. Bumblebee comes careening around a corner and slides to a stop, where Lebeouf and a female run from the car and take cover.







This is where we assume Bumblebee and the rest of the Transformers turn into their battle mode and kick some Decepticon butt. Bumblebee looks good, as another video shows a procession of Transformers cars up close.











The Autobot badge is plain to see, and Bumblebee has a new front fascia and some new stripes as well. Other cars in the procession included a Ferrari (rumored to be Sunstreaker), Mercedes (expected to either be Wheeljack or Perceptor), and the Corvette Stingray concept (also known as Sideswipe from the previous film). The barely seen Autobot "Jolt," Chevrolet's Volt from the second installment is expected to be absent from this third and final sequel.







So what happened to Optimus Prime? Prime's been spotted with his iconic trailer weaving through traffic in downtown Chicago.








Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version Name: bumble1.jpg Views: N/A Size: 55.9 KB ID: 3398  
]]> News Chris DeMorro http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/video-bumblebee-camaro-front-center-transformers-3069.html Super Sharp 2011 Berger Camaro Unveiled http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/super-sharp-2011-berger-camaro-unveiled-3068.html Fri, 03 Sep 2010 12:11:57 GMT Bringing back the Camaro was a big deal, and not just for GM. The whole aftermarket industry has embraced the Camaro with open arms, and even a recession could not stem the parade of customized Camaros. It seems like just about every aftermarket shop has gotten in on the Camaro craze, though some have taken their time getting their product to market.

Berger Chevrolet has just pulled off the veil on its 2011 Berger SS Camaro, a supercharged behemoth with a bevy of subtle upgrades. A thread over at Camaro5 has a ton of pictures and even a video of the unveiling itself.



Killer74Z28 posted video and pictures of the Berger SS Camaro unveiling, which was done without much pomp or circumstance. Matt Berger himself lifted the veil, and discusses the new stuff for their 2011 SS Berger Camaro.



In addition to getting a rear sway bar, a suspension and new bushings help lower the Camaro. It's got three-piece racing wheels with split spoke rims. It also gets a heritage grill and new style SS symbol, which is one of our favorite additions.



Our favorite part of the Berger SS Camaro though is the supercharged V8 engine. With an estimated horsepower output of around 550 ponies, it can run with Ford’s bad ass Shelby GT500, and perhaps even GM’s own Z28 (when it finally hits the road, whenever that is). All the badging on the Berger Camaro is billet aluminum, and the “blade style” three-piece spoiler really helps tie the whole ride together.



The interior even has a houndstooth interior with plenty of other Berger-style upgrades. Just 25 of these will be built, and 5 have already been spoken for, so bust out the wallet if you want in on this $59,000 Camaro.

]]> Bringing back the Camaro was a big deal, and not just for GM. The whole aftermarket industry has embraced the Camaro with open arms, and even a recession could not stem the parade of customized Camaros. It seems like just about every aftermarket shop has gotten in on the Camaro craze, though some have taken their time getting their product to market.



Berger Chevrolet has just pulled off the veil on its 2011 Berger SS Camaro, a supercharged behemoth with a bevy of subtle upgrades. A thread over at Camaro5 has a ton of pictures and even a video of the unveiling itself.







Killer74Z28 posted video and pictures of the Berger SS Camaro unveiling, which was done without much pomp or circumstance. Matt Berger himself lifted the veil, and discusses the new stuff for their 2011 SS Berger Camaro.







In addition to getting a rear sway bar, a suspension and new bushings help lower the Camaro. It's got three-piece racing wheels with split spoke rims. It also gets a heritage grill and new style SS symbol, which is one of our favorite additions.







Our favorite part of the Berger SS Camaro though is the supercharged V8 engine. With an estimated horsepower output of around 550 ponies, it can run with Ford’s bad ass Shelby GT500, and perhaps even GM’s own Z28 (when it finally hits the road, whenever that is). All the badging on the Berger Camaro is billet aluminum, and the “blade style” three-piece spoiler really helps tie the whole ride together.







The interior even has a houndstooth interior with plenty of other Berger-style upgrades. Just 25 of these will be built, and 5 have already been spoken for, so bust out the wallet if you want in on this $59,000 Camaro.




Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version Name: berger1.jpg Views: N/A Size: 108.6 KB ID: 3397  
]]> News Chris DeMorro http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/super-sharp-2011-berger-camaro-unveiled-3068.html COMP Steps Up To Sponsor Outlaw Drag Radial At LS Fest http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/comp-steps-up-sponsor-outlaw-drag-3066.html Fri, 03 Sep 2010 12:11:57 GMT The clock is counting down to the start of LS Fest in Bowling Green, Kentucky, on September 10th -12th, 2010, and COMP Cams will be sponsoring the Outlaw Drag Radial class. That's not all, though - COMP group companies RHS and TCI will also be supplying product sponsorship and technical reps for the event. It's just the latest addition to what promises to be an amazing weekend of LS-centric racing and fun, so don't miss out...



Original Press Release:

COMP Cams is proud to sponsor the popular Outlaw Drag Radial class at the inaugural Holley LS Fest in Bowling Green, Kentucky, on September 10th -12th, 2010. During the brand new LS Fest, competitors from all over the country will meet at Beech Bend Raceway Park in order to go head-to-head to prove that they have what it takes to put down massive power on Drag Radial tires. The COMP Cams®-sponsored event will feature rules that allow a range of different combinations, so there is sure to be a wide variety of Outlaw Radial cars competing for the win.

In addition to participation from COMP Cams, the Holley LS Fest will receive product sponsorship from RHS and TCI. All three CPG companies will have technical representatives on-site during the entire three-day event to answer questions about the latest in LS engine aftermarket technology. The Holley LS Fest will be a celebration of anything and everything powered by a GM LS engine. Race cars, street rods, muscle cars, trucks, late models – if it’s powered by an LS engine, you’ll see it at the festival. Whether you want to participate or just watch, the drag races, autocross, 0-60-0 speed stop challenge, show-n-shine, engine swap and other events will show off the best of the best when it comes to LS-equipped vehicles.

]]> The clock is counting down to the start of LS Fest in Bowling Green, Kentucky, on September 10th -12th, 2010, and COMP Cams will be sponsoring the Outlaw Drag Radial class. That's not all, though - COMP group companies RHS and TCI will also be supplying product sponsorship and technical reps for the event. It's just the latest addition to what promises to be an amazing weekend of LS-centric racing and fun, so don't miss out...







Original Press Release:



COMP Cams is proud to sponsor the popular Outlaw Drag Radial class at the inaugural Holley LS Fest in Bowling Green, Kentucky, on September 10th -12th, 2010. During the brand new LS Fest, competitors from all over the country will meet at Beech Bend Raceway Park in order to go head-to-head to prove that they have what it takes to put down massive power on Drag Radial tires. The COMP Cams®-sponsored event will feature rules that allow a range of different combinations, so there is sure to be a wide variety of Outlaw Radial cars competing for the win.



In addition to participation from COMP Cams, the Holley LS Fest will receive product sponsorship from RHS and TCI. All three CPG companies will have technical representatives on-site during the entire three-day event to answer questions about the latest in LS engine aftermarket technology. The Holley LS Fest will be a celebration of anything and everything powered by a GM LS engine. Race cars, street rods, muscle cars, trucks, late models – if it’s powered by an LS engine, you’ll see it at the festival. Whether you want to participate or just watch, the drag races, autocross, 0-60-0 speed stop challenge, show-n-shine, engine swap and other events will show off the best of the best when it comes to LS-equipped vehicles.




Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version Name: LSFest_logo-copy.jpg Views: N/A Size: 85.4 KB ID: 3395  
]]> News LSX TV News http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/comp-steps-up-sponsor-outlaw-drag-3066.html <![CDATA[Project Blackout: Breathing Better With K&N]]> http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/project-blackout-breathing-better-k-n-3075.html Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:31:25 GMT This SUV ain't for no soccer mom, that's for sure. We've been hammering on this LS2-powered Trailblazer SS for quite some time, and for all intensive purposes, she's pretty much done. Well, I mean, we could always go bigger, but we do drive this car back-and-forth from home to work, so we do need to keep it civil to some degree...



What Were We Thinking?

For those following along, we’ve had a whole lot of fun with our “Project Blackout” Trailblazer Super Sport over the last few years. We’ve installed a NOS nitrous kit, a Yank torque converter, Kook’s headers and Y-pipe and Corsa exhaust; we even completed our “murdered out” look with a set of Factory Reproductions rims wrapped in Yokohama rubber. We’ve clocked some pretty decent times with our daily driver-turned-weekend warrior, and it’s only going to get better. But one key ingredient to our Trailblazer’s success is a pretty basic one that is key to getting Blackout’s 400-horsepower LS2 running at its full potential; a cold air intake kit.



We needed something simple to install that would set our Trailblazer SS over the top and apart from the rest of the crowd. While exploring our options, we noticed that Project Blackout’s 6-liter was turning blue from suffocation caused by the OEM ‘paper’ air filter. The solution would be to upgrade to an aftermarket filtration system designed to open up airflow to the engine and release more horsepower. When we thought ‘air filters,’ our minds immediately jumped to K&N Filters.



Of course, it comes as no surprise that K&N was our first instinct when you look at the company’s history and reputation. Originally started over forty years ago as a small family business in Riverside, California, K&N now has a global market with offices in the U.K. and the Netherlands. K&N is the leading innovator of air filtration with their invention of the reusable cotton gauze filter technology. Now, with over 3,500 part numbers with a lifetime warranty, there is no doubt that K&N’s reputation is that of honesty and respect. With that reputation, it’s hard not to believe their claims on their products.

When you look at their aftermarket intake kits, it’s obvious that they provide a cleaner look which is unachievable with the stock intake assembly. But what you don’t see is what the research department claims. We talked to K&N's Tim Martin who explained, "The air intake system has several unique design elements specifically for the Trailblazer. We tried to optimize performance and try different component configurations in development. This intake kit has a custom heat shield designed for the Trailblazer engine bay, and a very unique molded tube shape to provide clearance from the engine cooling fan and engine shroud. The tube streamlines air flow from the throttle body while providing mounting points for the factory vent line and mass air sensor."

Hypothetically, the cotton gauze filter combined with the improved intake tube will provide improved airflow to the engine. The improved airflow should liven the engine by making it more responsive to the pedal as well as add more horsepower. Given K&N’s successful reputation, we couldn’t find a reason why we shouldn’t put their claims to the test. We picked up our intake kit for our 6.0 LS2 (PT# 57-3061) and ripped open the box like a kid on Christmas.

Installing The Kit

We headed to the garage and quickly discovered this project to be simple to say the least. The instructions guided us step by step throughout the process starting with the removal of the engine cover. After unplugging the Mass Airflow Sensor and removing the crank case vent hose, we pulled the OEM intake tube from our Trailblazer SS.


We pulled the OEM intake tube from our Trailblazer SS

After removing just four bolts, we were able to slip the air-box cover, stock filter, and MAS assembly from under the upper core support. After removing the assembly, we removed the MAS unit from the filter, making sure not to lose it; we were going to need this later.


We proceeded to attach the edge trim to the designated areas around the heat shield

The first step to the installation was simple, cut the provided rubber seal into several predetermined sizes per K&N’s request and attach it to the designated areas around the lip of the heat shield. Next, we dropped the assembly into it’s destination inside the engine compartment and attached the mounting bracket to the cylinder head along with the ground strap.


K&N's intake tube will provide a cleaner look and better airflow

After bolting down the heat shield with the provided bolts, we inserted the intake tube. We dusted off our original MAS unit and stuck it on the end of our new intake tube inside the heat shield. Then, we unwrapped the K&N filter element and installed it in our vehicle. The engine cover went back on and we were ready to start her up!


Our original MAS will be reused with the new kit


K&N's high-flow filter will allow the engine to breathe easier

With a few simple hand tools that can be found in nearly every garage, we were able to give our Project Blackout an upgrade in under two hours. We fired up our LS2 engine and we could immediately tell a difference in engine sound. This thing sounded ready to rock n’ roll.


The installation can be done with a few simple hand tools


Be sure to apply your decal making your kit emissions legal come inspection time

K&N's dyno testing showed the stock LS2 breaching the 300 RWHP mark by adding 19 additional horsepower for a final figure of 313 RWHP. Although the numbers don’t lie, everyone knows there’s a night and day difference between what the paper says and what the seat of our pants tells us. We took the black knight on the street for some ‘performance’ testing. Immediately, we felt a crisper throttle response. Unlike the conventional ‘power adders,’ our K&N intake kit provides us with more power at our fingertips throughout the entire power band. After our playtime was over, fuel economy joined the game, giving us a marginally better efficiency rating.


K&N's Tim Martin noted, "K&N intakes are tested extensively on one of our chassis dynamometers. This kit showed strong power and torque increases across a broad RPM range. The intake kit has received a government CARB executive order that makes it street legal in all 50 states, and it comes the K&N Million Mile Warranty."


Our new intake kit looks cleaner and will provide us with more power at the pedal

Features:
  • Cleaner appearance
  • Easy installation
  • Fits in original air box position
  • Street & emissions legal in all 50 states
  • Increases power up to 10%

Complete and buttoned up, we were more than happy with our Trailblazer's easy-breathing snorkel. With improved horsepower and fuel efficiency, it's hard to believe we hadn't done this swap sooner. Although ideas of new cylinder heads or even an intake manifold crossed our minds, the simple and easy install of a cold air filter made a substantial difference, and that's what really matters.

Source
K&N Filters
www.knfilters.com
(800) 858-3333

]]> This SUV ain't for no soccer mom, that's for sure. We've been hammering on this LS2-powered Trailblazer SS for quite some time, and for all intensive purposes, she's pretty much done. Well, I mean, we could always go bigger, but we do drive this car back-and-forth from home to work, so we do need to keep it civil to some degree...







What Were We Thinking?



For those following along, we’ve had a whole lot of fun with our “Project Blackout” Trailblazer Super Sport over the last few years. We’ve installed a NOS nitrous kit, a Yank torque converter, Kook’s headers and Y-pipe and Corsa exhaust; we even completed our “murdered out” look with a set of Factory Reproductions rims wrapped in Yokohama rubber. We’ve clocked some pretty decent times with our daily driver-turned-weekend warrior, and it’s only going to get better. But one key ingredient to our Trailblazer’s success is a pretty basic one that is key to getting Blackout’s 400-horsepower LS2 running at its full potential; a cold air intake kit.







We needed something simple to install that would set our Trailblazer SS over the top and apart from the rest of the crowd. While exploring our options, we noticed that Project Blackout’s 6-liter was turning blue from suffocation caused by the OEM ‘paper’ air filter. The solution would be to upgrade to an aftermarket filtration system designed to open up airflow to the engine and release more horsepower. When we thought ‘air filters,’ our minds immediately jumped to K&N Filters.







Of course, it comes as no surprise that K&N was our first instinct when you look at the company’s history and reputation. Originally started over forty years ago as a small family business in Riverside, California, K&N now has a global market with offices in the U.K. and the Netherlands. K&N is the leading innovator of air filtration with their invention of the reusable cotton gauze filter technology. Now, with over 3,500 part numbers with a lifetime warranty, there is no doubt that K&N’s reputation is that of honesty and respect. With that reputation, it’s hard not to believe their claims on their products.



When you look at their aftermarket intake kits, it’s obvious that they provide a cleaner look which is unachievable with the stock intake assembly. But what you don’t see is what the research department claims. We talked to K&N's Tim Martin who explained, "The air intake system has several unique design elements specifically for the Trailblazer. We tried to optimize performance and try different component configurations in development. This intake kit has a custom heat shield designed for the Trailblazer engine bay, and a very unique molded tube shape to provide clearance from the engine cooling fan and engine shroud. The tube streamlines air flow from the throttle body while providing mounting points for the factory vent line and mass air sensor."



Hypothetically, the cotton gauze filter combined with the improved intake tube will provide improved airflow to the engine. The improved airflow should liven the engine by making it more responsive to the pedal as well as add more horsepower. Given K&N’s successful reputation, we couldn’t find a reason why we shouldn’t put their claims to the test. We picked up our intake kit for our 6.0 LS2 (PT# 57-3061) and ripped open the box like a kid on Christmas.



Installing The Kit



We headed to the garage and quickly discovered this project to be simple to say the least. The instructions guided us step by step throughout the process starting with the removal of the engine cover. After unplugging the Mass Airflow Sensor and removing the crank case vent hose, we pulled the OEM intake tube from our Trailblazer SS.





We pulled the OEM intake tube from our Trailblazer SS



After removing just four bolts, we were able to slip the air-box cover, stock filter, and MAS assembly from under the upper core support. After removing the assembly, we removed the MAS unit from the filter, making sure not to lose it; we were going to need this later.





We proceeded to attach the edge trim to the designated areas around the heat shield



The first step to the installation was simple, cut the provided rubber seal into several predetermined sizes per K&N’s request and attach it to the designated areas around the lip of the heat shield. Next, we dropped the assembly into it’s destination inside the engine compartment and attached the mounting bracket to the cylinder head along with the ground strap.





K&N's intake tube will provide a cleaner look and better airflow



After bolting down the heat shield with the provided bolts, we inserted the intake tube. We dusted off our original MAS unit and stuck it on the end of our new intake tube inside the heat shield. Then, we unwrapped the K&N filter element and installed it in our vehicle. The engine cover went back on and we were ready to start her up!





Our original MAS will be reused with the new kit





K&N's high-flow filter will allow the engine to breathe easier



With a few simple hand tools that can be found in nearly every garage, we were able to give our Project Blackout an upgrade in under two hours. We fired up our LS2 engine and we could immediately tell a difference in engine sound. This thing sounded ready to rock n’ roll.





The installation can be done with a few simple hand tools





Be sure to apply your decal making your kit emissions legal come inspection time



K&N's dyno testing showed the stock LS2 breaching the 300 RWHP mark by adding 19 additional horsepower for a final figure of 313 RWHP. Although the numbers don’t lie, everyone knows there’s a night and day difference between what the paper says and what the seat of our pants tells us. We took the black knight on the street for some ‘performance’ testing. Immediately, we felt a crisper throttle response. Unlike the conventional ‘power adders,’ our K&N intake kit provides us with more power at our fingertips throughout the entire power band. After our playtime was over, fuel economy joined the game, giving us a marginally better efficiency rating.





K&N's Tim Martin noted, "K&N intakes are tested extensively on one of our chassis dynamometers. This kit showed strong power and torque increases across a broad RPM range. The intake kit has received a government CARB executive order that makes it street legal in all 50 states, and it comes the K&N Million Mile Warranty."





Our new intake kit looks cleaner and will provide us with more power at the pedal



Features:

  • Cleaner appearance

  • Easy installation

  • Fits in original air box position

  • Street & emissions legal in all 50 states

  • Increases power up to 10%



Complete and buttoned up, we were more than happy with our Trailblazer's easy-breathing snorkel. With improved horsepower and fuel efficiency, it's hard to believe we hadn't done this swap sooner. Although ideas of new cylinder heads or even an intake manifold crossed our minds, the simple and easy install of a cold air filter made a substantial difference, and that's what really matters.



Source

K&N Filters

www.knfilters.com

(800) 858-3333




Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version Name: attachment-1.jpg Views: N/A Size: 98.4 KB ID: 3404   Click image for larger version Name: attachment.jpg Views: N/A Size: 73.8 KB ID: 3403  
]]> Tech Articles Ian McBride http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/project-blackout-breathing-better-k-n-3075.html Hotchkis Expands To New, Larger Facility http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/hotchkis-expands-new-larger-facility-3072.html Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:17:40 GMT For 17 years, Hotchkis has slowly expanded its operations and product lineup. Now, Hotchkis is expanding their facilities too, moving many of their operations and offices under one giant roof. The new facility, located in Santa Fe Springs, California, enables Hotchkis to increase production and product development, and includes a larger customer installation center as well.

Official Release

Hotchkis Expands to New, Larger Facility


Sport suspension manufacturer’s new location allows for increased production, a larger R&D facility and a new onsite customer installation center.

Santa Fe Springs, Calif. (Aug. 2010) – Hotchkis Performance has outgrown its original home for over 17 years and is settling into a new facility in Santa Fe Springs with larger work bays, engineering suites, shipping/receiving areas and warehouse space. The move brings several Hotchkis shops and offices together under one roof, substantially increasing production and new product development capabilities. Another highlight of the new building is a large customer installation center, which offers everything from basic suspension installation and track prep services to complete vehicle construction and custom component fabrication.

"This move is the culmination of years of experience and growth," says Hotchkis founder, John Hotchkis. "We have more room for all facets of our business from R&D to sales and shipping. We have always been very customer service oriented, and our improved layout allows us to keep more products in stock, hire more employees and offer our customers personalized options such as installation, track prep and even custom builds. For example our first custom build is a scratch design high performance suspension system for Jay Leno’s 7.0L Ford Galaxie."

From a secure gated parking lot to a new showroom filled with product displays and the Hotchkis Porsche 962, the new facility is larger and more efficient in its layout. The new install center features with alignment racks and service lifts allows customers to have products installed on their vehicles, or even have custom work done on specialty cars and trucks. New plasma and laser cutters coupled with new in-house prototype R&D staff will substantially increase the number of new products coming out of the Santa Fe Springs based facility. Complementing the new service center are expanded shipping and packaging areas with a larger staff to improve turn-around times on mail and internet orders.

"The new facility lets us bring even better products and services to our customers," says Hotchkis. "We're thrilled with our new home and would like to invite everyone to come visit the shop, check out whatever projects are in the Install Center and view the 962 in the showroom."

]]> For 17 years, Hotchkis has slowly expanded its operations and product lineup. Now, Hotchkis is expanding their facilities too, moving many of their operations and offices under one giant roof. The new facility, located in Santa Fe Springs, California, enables Hotchkis to increase production and product development, and includes a larger customer installation center as well.



Official Release



Hotchkis Expands to New, Larger Facility





Sport suspension manufacturer’s new location allows for increased production, a larger R&D facility and a new onsite customer installation center.



Santa Fe Springs, Calif. (Aug. 2010) – Hotchkis Performance has outgrown its original home for over 17 years and is settling into a new facility in Santa Fe Springs with larger work bays, engineering suites, shipping/receiving areas and warehouse space. The move brings several Hotchkis shops and offices together under one roof, substantially increasing production and new product development capabilities. Another highlight of the new building is a large customer installation center, which offers everything from basic suspension installation and track prep services to complete vehicle construction and custom component fabrication.



"This move is the culmination of years of experience and growth," says Hotchkis founder, John Hotchkis. "We have more room for all facets of our business from R&D to sales and shipping. We have always been very customer service oriented, and our improved layout allows us to keep more products in stock, hire more employees and offer our customers personalized options such as installation, track prep and even custom builds. For example our first custom build is a scratch design high performance suspension system for Jay Leno’s 7.0L Ford Galaxie."



From a secure gated parking lot to a new showroom filled with product displays and the Hotchkis Porsche 962, the new facility is larger and more efficient in its layout. The new install center features with alignment racks and service lifts allows customers to have products installed on their vehicles, or even have custom work done on specialty cars and trucks. New plasma and laser cutters coupled with new in-house prototype R&D staff will substantially increase the number of new products coming out of the Santa Fe Springs based facility. Complementing the new service center are expanded shipping and packaging areas with a larger staff to improve turn-around times on mail and internet orders.



"The new facility lets us bring even better products and services to our customers," says Hotchkis. "We're thrilled with our new home and would like to invite everyone to come visit the shop, check out whatever projects are in the Install Center and view the 962 in the showroom."




Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version Name: hot1.jpg Views: N/A Size: 83.5 KB ID: 3401  
]]> News Chris DeMorro http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/hotchkis-expands-new-larger-facility-3072.html Nickey Chicago Unveils 575HP Camaro http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/nickey-chicago-unveils-575hp-camaro-3071.html Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:17:40 GMT A mid-west icon of the 60's was restored a few years back by Stefano Bimbi. Nickey Chevrolet in Chicago was a high volume dealer that established a reputation for delivering muscle cars and performance parts for Chevy enthusiasts. Nickey Chicago was their high performance parts store that advertised nationally and were soon selling over a million dollars a month in parts.


Images: Nickey Chicago

As the performance culture grew, names like Bill Thomas and Dick Harrell got involved with the Nickey operations, eventually establishing the first national network for dealer-built super cars. Specially built L88's, L89's and L72's were installed in Camaros and other Chev products of the day. In Stage I, Stage II and Stage III configurations, the Nickey cars became among the most sought-after examples of the muscle car era.



Today, Nickey Chicago operates out of St. Charles, IL, under the eye of CEO Stefano Bimbi. Their mission is unchanged from the original shop and recently, they showed us some of their latest Camaros - a Stage I and a Stage II example.



The Stage I car is more than just a "Sport" edition, incorporating mild performance improvements that tweak the engine up to the 475 HP level. Intake and exhaust enhancements, plus a custom tune, are responsible for the increased output. Distinctive identification accents and a Nickey Stage I tuned suspension complete the entry level version.



Moving to the Stage II level, more interaction with the customer is used to determine their most suitable or desired configuration. In fact, engine setups as high as 800 hp are available, based on a twin turbo configuration. Magnusson or ProCharger supercharged engines, as well as a single turbo version, all take advantage of Nickey CNC-ported cylinder heads, Nickey specification cam kit, along with Nickey custom intake manifold and fuel rails.

The company's LS7-based, Stage III engines can be built ranging from 700 to 1,000 hp. Stage III cars also incorporate upgraded driveline components and a custom roll cage.



]]> A mid-west icon of the 60's was restored a few years back by Stefano Bimbi. Nickey Chevrolet in Chicago was a high volume dealer that established a reputation for delivering muscle cars and performance parts for Chevy enthusiasts. Nickey Chicago was their high performance parts store that advertised nationally and were soon selling over a million dollars a month in parts.





Images: Nickey Chicago



As the performance culture grew, names like Bill Thomas and Dick Harrell got involved with the Nickey operations, eventually establishing the first national network for dealer-built super cars. Specially built L88's, L89's and L72's were installed in Camaros and other Chev products of the day. In Stage I, Stage II and Stage III configurations, the Nickey cars became among the most sought-after examples of the muscle car era.







Today, Nickey Chicago operates out of St. Charles, IL, under the eye of CEO Stefano Bimbi. Their mission is unchanged from the original shop and recently, they showed us some of their latest Camaros - a Stage I and a Stage II example.







The Stage I car is more than just a "Sport" edition, incorporating mild performance improvements that tweak the engine up to the 475 HP level. Intake and exhaust enhancements, plus a custom tune, are responsible for the increased output. Distinctive identification accents and a Nickey Stage I tuned suspension complete the entry level version.







Moving to the Stage II level, more interaction with the customer is used to determine their most suitable or desired configuration. In fact, engine setups as high as 800 hp are available, based on a twin turbo configuration. Magnusson or ProCharger supercharged engines, as well as a single turbo version, all take advantage of Nickey CNC-ported cylinder heads, Nickey specification cam kit, along with Nickey custom intake manifold and fuel rails.



The company's LS7-based, Stage III engines can be built ranging from 700 to 1,000 hp. Stage III cars also incorporate upgraded driveline components and a custom roll cage.








Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version Name: Nickey-1.jpg Views: N/A Size: 106.8 KB ID: 3400  
]]> News Gordon McDonald http://www.lsxtv.com/forum/nickey-chicago-unveils-575hp-camaro-3071.html