LS1TECH - Camaro and Firebird Forum Discussion

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-   -   Restoring two 1997 Z-28's (https://ls1tech.com/forums/introductions-greetings/1982133-restoring-two-1997-z-28s.html)

Magman01 Aug 29, 2025 08:05 PM

Restoring two 1997 Z-28's
 
Hello guys. Thought I'd share pics of my Camaro's with ya'll. I've been a long-time 3rd gen Camaro owner and recently acquired two fourth gen Z-28's. Both are in non-running condition but certainly won't be for long! I picked up the Cayenne Red 1997 Z-28, A4 for $1600. It's been giving me a challenge with electrical issues and getting it started, but I'm sure I'll overcome. It's basically stock but complete and ready to roll once I figure out the ignition issues. The previous owner gave up, but I'm still working it...

The bright red 97 Z-28 I picked up for $1700 because it had a rod knock. The engine is pulled now, machine work is complete and just about ready to go back together. This one has a 6-speed and is in really nice condition. Anyway, I just thought I'd share since I'm probably going to need some technical assistance here and there to get these back on the road. Take care!
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...67bd8c07de.jpg

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...43ffbd9f5d.jpg

LS1Formulation Aug 30, 2025 06:04 AM

Looks like a couple of good scores. If I were you, I'd buy the kits to eliminate the optispark as they are nothing but trouble. Much more reliable ignition that way ( it gets converted to LS style coil near plug ).

Magman01 Aug 30, 2025 08:45 AM


Originally Posted by LS1Formulation (Post 20622475)
Looks like a couple of good scores. If I were you, I'd buy the kits to eliminate the optispark as they are nothing but trouble. Much more reliable ignition that way ( it gets converted to LS style coil near plug ).

Yes, I agree! Got the first one, but can’t get power to the PCM.
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...35f224d7d.jpeg

LS1 TJ Aug 31, 2025 08:01 PM

Kind of strange that we are talking about "restoring" a 1997 Camaro?
Good luck with your projects.

Magman01 Sep 4, 2025 09:55 PM

Strange? No, my initial post was misleading, apologies! I've been working on these two Z-28's for the past 5 months. Just now getting to the point where I'm needing some tech assist.
Here's some pics from the start.
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...49a78f22e3.png
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...98ffb6a015.png
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...e24eba1ca5.png
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...d618554de2.png
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...7e2f6490b.jpeg
https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...d02fc343ce.jpg

Magman01 Sep 4, 2025 10:03 PM

I have since then, sent it to paint, replaced wheels and tires, pulled and rebuilt the LT1. Had the heads and intake ported by LE. Installed LE recommended 227 dur. cam, and 4.11 rearend is in work. Removed front/rear seats and had reupholstered... Taillights replaced, fixed wiring on headlights...etc. I've been busy restoring both of these!

Magman01 Sep 4, 2025 10:06 PM

And here, I found my "rod knock"!
https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...f6791b4b40.jpg
https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...1d1a03e682.jpg
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...754e3954cf.jpg
https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...505583ca75.jpg

Magman01 Sep 4, 2025 10:10 PM

So no, restoring a 1997 Camaro Z-28 shouldn't be considered strange. It all depends on condition and history of the car. I will say though, these cars are money pits!!!

Magman01 Sep 5, 2025 08:20 PM

Here's "Cherry Bomb" at the body shop.
https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...7e3b31a1ae.png
https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...86be07b77b.png
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...33cc1d3ae5.png
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...30aea9d260.png
https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/ls1tech...6168cbedfe.png

LS1Formulation Sep 6, 2025 09:42 AM

I think he just means it's strange to be talking about restoring cars that are seemingly so "new". But it's pretty awesome you are, because these are getting more scarce by the day in nice condition. And sticking with the LT1 is great because a lot of people get rid of them for the LS. I have a soft spot for the LT1, as I've owned a couple LT1 cars in the past ( 1993 Firebird Formula and a 1995 Caprice 9C1. Got the 5000 lb. Caprice into the 13.40's with an SBE LT1 with home ported heads and a cam. ) . Will be nice to see how they turn out!

ScreaminRedZ Sep 28, 2025 12:08 PM

Very cool projects! I love the Cayenne Red

Magman01 Sep 28, 2025 01:05 PM


Originally Posted by ScreaminRedZ (Post 20625611)
Very cool projects! I love the Cayenne Red

Thanks. I'm on to tuning the Cayenne red one now. Doing a mail order Solomon tune to get it going!

Nodnarbs4ever Apr 8, 2026 04:50 AM


Originally Posted by Magman01 (Post 20625617)
Thanks. I'm on to tuning the Cayenne red one now. Doing a mail order Solomon tune to get it going!

Hey, sorry to bump and old thread but it's been a long time since I've been on here and I'm trying to track down a tune. I'm curious how you got a hold of Solomon for the tune?


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