When Thunder Racing went looking for a project car to drag race, we found a car with all of the options we wanted... none! To get the lightest weight possible, a car with no power options, no t-tops, no leather interior and no cruise control was the perfect candidate. The 1999 Camaro Z28 was only a day old when Thunder Racing's crew set about modifying it for more power (and even less weight). From bone stock to race only, this Camaro has continued to evolve to reflect the latest trends in LS1 performance technology. To date, the car has been raced to a best of 10.05 in the quarter mile with a best of 133.47 mph, and a bumper dragging 1.35 sixty foot time.
The source of power for this beast is a naturally aspirated, 359 cubic inch LS1 engine. Starting with an LS6 block, Thunder Racing built the motor using Diamond pistons, custom connecting rods, and a Lunati crankshaft. Holding the bottom end together is a set of Thunder Racing's billet steel main caps and ARP main studs.
The cylinder head and camshaft selection is of the utmost importance in generating so much power. To that end, Thunder Racing utilized a set of GTP stage II 5.3L heads and assembled in-house using Ferrea 2.02" intake/1.57" exhaust valves, Comp Cams 921 valve springs, titanium retainers, and T&D shaft mount rocker arms. A custom ground Thunder Racing 240/248 camshaft was selected to match the whole package. Handling the big-breathing ability of this little motor is a Hogan's sheet metal intake manifold. Dynatech 1-3/4" to 1-7/8" stepped long tube headers were selected to handle exhaust duties, and a Meziere race water pump keep this hot motor cool.
To fuel the fire, the entire fuel system from bumper to bumper was replaced. First to go was the factory fuel tank, replaced by a custom tank designed for less weight and a cleaner install. All of the original fuel lines were replaced using braided stainless steel hose. An Aeromotive fuel pump was selected to supply the heavy demands of the little motor. A Kinsler fuel pressure regulator and fuel filters keep everything working properly.
The drivetrain was upgraded using a built TH350 with Rossler valve body and 6200 stall torque converter. The wimpy factory 10-bolt rear end was ditched in favor of a Moser 12-bolt rear end.
Weight reduction is a key point to performance, and this already relatively svelte Camaro was put on a further diet by removing all unnecessary interior items and dropping in a set of light weight Corbeau racing seats and a Momo steering wheel. On the outside, a Glasstek lift-off fiberglass hood keeps a factory appearance but knocks a few pounds off. A BMR tubular k-member and BMR tubular a-arms go even further to drop the scales. A Madman & Co Racing manual steering rack cleans up the engine bay.
In racing, safety is never second to performance. Keeping the driver safe is a custom 10-point chromemoly roll cage by Wizard Racing. Aerospace brakes keep the power in check while a RJS 5-point harness keeps the driver in check. Autometer gauges keep driver informed at all times.
Putting the power to the ground is never an easy task. To accomplish this, Thunder Racing installed Madman & Co lower control arms, torque arm, and panhard rod. QA-1 shocks and springs were installed on the front while stock springs were kept in the rear. BMR lower control arm relocation brackets and a Wolfe rear drag race sway bar help plant the tires firmly.
Finally, a custom flame paint job by Randall Quick was added to give this Camaro as much show as it has go. The entire package is a continually evolving machine used to display what works and does not work in the world of LS1 performance. Don't forget to check back regularly to see what's new with Thunder Racing's 1999 Camaro Z28.
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