OK guys, be gentle, first time posting in a forum and new to LS1's. I just bought a 2000 Trans Am convertible with 220k miles. It runs well but I want to put some power to it and make sure it is reliable. I have been reading on here for 3 weeks and there is so much information , but having trouble finding specific answers. I have an ok budget, around $4k, and would like to build ~400hp so any advise will help.

1. I am pulling the motor and sending it to be rebuilt, while it is apart I was going to do a cam swap, what is a good cam that can be used with the stock heads. Again, I would like to build some power but definitely keep it drivable. Also, I was thinking of replacing the fuel injectors (220k miles) and was wanting thoughts on a direction on that.

2. It currently is throwing codes for the Cats, so they have to be replaced. I have read at least 150 posts on exhaust on here and 90% of them start with "Just rip the cats and all the EGR s*$^ off". I live in NC so it has to pass emissions, has to have cats. Does anyone have a good solution for an EGR/CAT system that sounds good and builds power?

3. Am I missing something totally and going in the wrong direction? Thanks for all the help!!

 

Welcome to the forum!! There are a lot of knowledgeable guys on here. But don't allows think that "if it worked for them it will work for you". I am on my second TA and I sold the first one and then later got another cuz I missed it too much. So building this I am going to do a lot of things different cuz I didn't do enough research and I rushed into some mods too early. My advise to you is take your time since you have a ton of miles.

What I did buy that is helping me a lot is a book from Summit Racing called "Chevy LS1/LS6 Performance". This book covers everything you will need to now and will help you make the right decisions on what mods to do.

Definitely get the book helped me a lot and will in the future. Hope this helps out. Good luck and don't ever be afraid to ask questions.