deathtopenguins

I have a 73 Nova. I'm wondering what putting an LSx engine in it would take. I know they are similar to 67-69 Camaros. I know that conversion is popular and am wondering what complications there would be with the Nova. Trying to decide whether to keep the Nova. I'm joining the Marines and need to know if I should put it in storage or sell it.

I know there is the Camaro sticky, but I'm just wondering about the differences.

bczee

iTrader: (12)

Check out www.brphotrods.com, they have a kit to install the LSx into the Nova.

The kit will require the steering be converted to a front steer Rack and Pinon off of a Gen 4 f-body. The kit can be bought in pices or as a whole kit including a Rack and Pinon, mounts and cross members.

I have a 71 Nova and after I complete my 71 swap.. It is next. Post your project if you do it.

Talk to Phil there. They did a few Year On cars and other in some Mags.

deathtopenguins

Thanx. What kinda of suspension mods are also available? I just want to know how good a Nova can be made to handle. It was my first car and I just am having a hard time with the idea of letting it go.

By the way, what are some of the prices on those kits?

bczee

iTrader: (12)

There many ways to go for Suspension.. for a mid priced, complete kits.. I'd vote for Hotchkis or Global West...but there are more High end routes. I have Hotchkis on my Chevelle (rear solid control arms, tube upper A-Arms, Springs and F/R swap Bars. Energy Suspension bushing kit. Solid !

Once I get my Chevelle Done and Fund are saved, I will be doing my 71 Nova with both BRP conversion kit and the Hotchkis Suspension.

Steve68

iTrader: (23)

Novas share the same front subframe and rearends as 1st Gen Camaros, so bascially everything you can do to a Camaro you can do to a Nova

ATS makes plates where you don't have to switch to a front steer

I have a 70 Nova SS sitting in my driveway, street/drag car,

deathtopenguins

Yeah, I love the 68-72 Novas. I picked up the 73 when I was 15 for $1500. 70,000 original miles with original everything. Went to look at it on Christmas Day. Payed for the whole car myself. Built a 350 for it and payed for that all by myself. I love that car and just hate the idea of letting it go. Lots of time, money, and great memories in that car.

Steve68

iTrader: (23)

Go with a LS1/T-56 combo,

deathtopenguins

Thats the combo I was leaning towards. The LS2 and LS7 are really neat, but they sure have a price tag on them. LS1 seems like the way to go.

Kenova

iTrader: (4)

Don't get rid of it! You will start regreting the decision before the Nova is out of your sight, and that regret will hang with you for a very very long time. Do what you need to do to hold onto it.
Ken

NHRAMAN

iTrader: (1)

For sure..love early Nova's...the 73's have those big-*** bumpers though..maybe you could put earlier ones on though...LS1/T56 + NOVA = Great Combo...

bczee

iTrader: (12)

Yeah.. hang on to it.. I have regreted selling all of the cars from my past.. (57 chevy, 69 camaro, 62 vette, 65 nova ss, 70 1/2 camaro, 72 Camaro SS, 67 Camaro SS). Boy, if I knew what I know now.. and still had them all !

I think I have sold them for a combined total of less than $35,000 back in the 70's and 80's.. and they were all built or great stockers ! When I think of all the cars that I've had.. I just kick myself. !

pwrtrip75

iTrader: (8)

you dont need to do anything with the steering if you use a truck pan and shorten it. From where my BB and SB used to sit I had to move the tranny forward like an inch and a half so the LS1 would clear the heater and firewall and now need a new longer driveshaft. Other that that its a breeze.