OptimaJim

Location:	Racine, WI, USA
Joined:	11/07/2009

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"Sold To Save A Camp" 2002 Chevrolet Camaro

Introduction / Overview: This was a fun car, while it lasted. I knew '02 was the last year for the Camaros and I wanted an anniversary SS model, even though I had no idea what the paint scheme would look like. Secretly, I was hoping for a white car (like the '97s) with red/white/blue stripes running down the middle, like the second gens. That didn't happen, but red was ok with me too.

Drivetrain:

I already had a '99 Z28 convertible with a 6-speed transmission, so I decided to get an auto this time, even though I should've just gotten another 6-speed car. I did some drag racing with it, but the engine was basically stock. In some corners of the world (primarily my immediate household), this car was known as the "Real World Camaro."

You can read the full article here- http://www.gmhightechperformance.com/features/0211gmhtp_2001_chevrolet_camaro_ss_feature/index.html

The car ran mid-13s while I owned it, but I really didn't get it just to drag race. I live close to Road America and wanted to run it on the big tracks too (which is why I should've ordered a 6-speed car).

As mentioned before, the drivetrain was basically stock, but I did add a transmission cooler and carbon fiber driveshaft after the magazine article, as that was more road course-friendly, reducing tranny temps and eliminating an uncomfortable vibration above 125 mph.

Chassis:

It's been a while since I owned this car, so I have to do some thinking on what I did to it while it was in my possession. I know I added Kenny Brown Double Diamond subframe connectors to the '99 Z28 ragtop and I think I did the same with this car. The sfcs help keep these cars from prematurely squeaking and rattling, especially if they see hard use.

Other than that, I think I just ordered the optional suspension package through SLP, which was available for SSs and Firehawks, but I didn't get the different rear differntial. I don't know if it would've made a difference or not, but I know my dealership replaced it once under warranty, knowing I tracked the car and told me they couldn't do it again.

Wheels and Tires:

I ordered the BF Goodrich KDTAs (I think) for this car and they came on the 35th anniversary wheels, which were unique to the SS Camaros that were badged as such. I didn't want to risk dinging them up in a gravel trap, so I took them off with only a few thousand miles and bought a set of knock-off standard Camaro SS wheels, with Nitto tires, which I think were 555R2s, which had the same compound as the drag radials, but a stiffer sidewall for road racing.

I also added a set of Lou Gigliotti's G-stop rotors and stainless steel brake lines from Earl's

Body & Paint: I left the paint and body alone, except for generous applications of Zaino.

Interioir: Inside the car, I yanked the front seats and replaced them with custom race seats from LG Motorsports, which allowed me to strap in with five-point racing harnesses. I also added a welded-in five-point roll cage, which was mandatory for convertible running in most of the open track events I participated in.

Lifestyles: Muscle Cars

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