So the basics...
--96 Camaro conv.
--LT1 completely stock as far as I can tell.
--Cold air intake
--Short throw shifter

What I'm looking to make her into...
I want to hit mid to low 12's keeping it NA. My vision is to make it into a Saturday Night Special...something that can cruise the strip, and eat the competition between the lights when need be. Oh yea I would like to bore it and stroke it to 383...

I am looking to drop around $5-$6k into this with the possibility of more if the gains are good for the money. I would appreciate any suggestions.

Brandon

 

In very general terms, focus on the top end of the motor - the heads, valve train, etc. That's where the real power on an NA build lies. You don't need high end bottom end parts for what you are talking about. I see people here way overbuilding the bottom end frequently. If I were doing what you are planning with the budget you have in mind, I would give thought to reusing the bottom end if it is in good shape when you get the motor apart and if the bore wear will clean up with a light hone. If not, consider just a set of 30 over pistons with re-use of the stock crank and rods after a good inspection (including Magnafluxing). This will leave with enough $$$ to get a really good set of heads, top notch valvetrain parts and a good exhaust system. Don't leave larger fuel injectors and tuning out of your budget. Another way to approach this is a performance "crate motor" type deal. That can be a good value for your $$$ and is the way to go if you don't have a competent local machine shop to do your work. I am not familiar with the LT1 "crate" engine market, but starting with the sites "supporting vendors" is a good place to begin. That way, you get proven parts combo ready to go with the advantage of lower pricing based on volume.

Rich