[Dave B]

I have one of the last LT1 cars and need to upgrade to an LS1. The '01s and '02 are coming off lease and seem tempting.

I figure there must be somethings to look out for compared to the LT1. What are the common engine failure/warranty fixes? I know the power steering pump is a big problem for race track use. On my LT1 this was solved with pulleys but it has a remote reservoir. Are pulleys available for LS1 cars? Do they work or do I need a power steering cooler?

Any easy fix for the rear wheel brake hop?

This car will be used for street and track use including competition but the engine will be stock except for a lid and possibly headers ( if they are worth it)

Also if I get an intake lid is there any difference in power between SS/WS6 cars and regular coupes? I will be altering the suspension significantly so it doesn't matter about the stock spring rates etc.

Another small point. I bought my LT1 new and defintely did not want T tops as they seem to leak. If you have them do your T tops leak? It may take me a while to find a relatively loaded car without them.

[CMC #37]

This is something I struggled with purchasing a brand new '97 Trans-Am. They told me a new motor was coming out, however, I did not hold my breath as that was unproven, and buying a first year of anything GM did not excite me. In retrospect, I made a good decision. Sure, the LS1 has more power, however, the rest of the car is fundamentally the same (I know you know that , however, I have a point). I did the LS1 brake upgrade, now I am happy with the brakes. As far as power goes, why not spend that $ on simply building up the LT1? That motor is capable of some great hp and torque #s. If it is power you want, you can get it and still have $ left over for some track time!