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GMPP E-ROD Concepts Highlight New Era of Efficient Hot Rodding at Barrett-Jackson's Orange County Event
• 1955 Chevy wîth CARB-Approved 430-HP LS3 V-8 Averages 23 MPG wîth Low EmissionsEfficiency isn't a word typically associated wîth hot rods, but when the GM Performance Parts (GMPP) E-ROD 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air hit the road for this summer's Hot Rod Power Tour, it delivered an average of 23 mpg on the drive from Florida to Michigan. That was wîth a 430-horsepower LS3 V-8 under the hood and emissions performance comparable to a new Camaro SS.
Behind this classic cruiser's balanced performance was the GMPP-engineered E-ROD crate engine system, which features emissions equipment designed to make it compliant wîth increasingly stringent emissions laws. In fact, the E-ROD LS3 in the GMPP '55 carries Executive Order (EO) number D-126-30 from California Air Resources Board (CARB), making it legal for installation in pre-OBD II (1996-and-earlier) vehicles in that state.
It also delivers on the expectations of a new generation of hot rodders and custom car builders, where greater fuel economy and lower emissions play more important roles in their projects.
'The world of hot rodding is changing, and GMPP is leading the way wîth engine systems and supporting components that enable enthusiasts to build a car that complies wîth the law, satisfies their desire for a cleaner hot rod and doesn't sacrifice the performance they want,' said Dr. Jamie Meyer, product integration manager for GM Performance Parts. 'With fuel prices not showing any signs of retreating, greater fuel economy is definitely a welcome benefit, too.'
Fresh off the Power Tour, the E-ROD Bel Air will be shown at the GM Performance Parts display at the Barrett-Jackson Orange County Auction, Friday through Sunday. It will be joined by the Lingenfelter E-ROD 1955 Chevy pickup, which is powered by the new E-ROD 5.3L. A CARB EO number is expected for the E-ROD 5.3L this summer.
Both vehicles feature the GMPP 4L65-E electronically controlled automatic transmission and new GMPP Supermatic transmission controller, which enables a simple plug-in installation to match the plug-in features of the E-ROD engine control system.
Visitors to the Barrett-Jackson Orange County auction can view and inspect the E-ROD classics and talk wîth GMPP officials about installing an E-ROD system and GMPP transmission in their own project vehicle. The GMPP display will also include the newest crate engines, LSX high-performance LS engine parts, Supermatic transmission kits and more.
'This is a great opportunity to speak directly wîth our experts about the details of the systems and what it takes to install one,' said Dr. Meyer.
All of the E-ROD engine packages, transmissions and Supermatic transmission controllers are available through authorized GM Performance Parts retailers, GM dealership parts departments and via gmperformanceparts.com. The engines are backed by a two-year/50,000-mile limited warranty.
GMPP engineers are working wîth CARB for approval to allow E-ROD engines to be installed in 'special construction' vehicles. They would include vehicles wîth new bodies that come wîth new vehicle identification numbers, such as the Lingenfelter E-ROD '55 truck, which features a Dynacorn reproduction body and the chassis of a late-model TrailBlazer SS.
E-ROD system details
The E-ROD '55 Chevy is powered by the E-ROD LS3 engine for automatic transmissions (part number 19257230) It is also available in a manual-transmission package (part number 19257234).
The Lingenfelter E-ROD truck features the E-ROD 5.3L for automatics (part number 19258004), which is rated at 315 horsepower. It is also available for manual transmissions (part number 19258008).
To make them emissions-compliant, the E-ROD engine packages include:
• A brand-new GM crate engine: LS3 or 5.3L
• GMPP engine wiring harness
• GMPP engine control module• Exhaust manifolds
• Catalytic converters
• Oxygen sensors and sensor bosses• Fuel tank evaporative emissions canister
• Mass airflow sensor and sensor boss
• Accelerator pedal (for use wîth the electronic throttle)• Air filter
• Instruction manual
In addition to the E-ROD system, the builder will need to source additional components to complete the assembly and get the vehicle running. They include:
• Fuel tank
• Fuel lines (re-circulating or returnless)
• Fuel pump
• Fuel tank vent line from the tank to the evaporative emissions canister
• Purge line from the canister to the engine purge solenoid
• Air induction system that incorporates the mass airflow sensor
• Exhaust system behind the catalytic converters
• A 'check engine' light (wiring and circuitry is included in the kit)
Additionally, each engine requires a front-end accessory drive system suitable to the vehicle. The instruction manual includes recommendations for the accessory drive kit, as well as the transmission, gear ratios and more. GMPP offers two configurations of the accessory drive systems to suit different applications; and each allows the installer to easily delete air conditioning. They include part numbers 19155066 and 19155067.
GMPP recommends the LS1 Engine Installation Guide (part number 88959384), which illustrates basic procedures and offers helpful tips on installing an LS engine into older vehicles.
The 4L65-E transmission used in both vehicles carries part number 19156260 and the new Supermatic transmission controller carries part number 19257634.Source - Chevrolet
From 1950 through 1952 Chevrolet hardtops in the Deluxe model line were dubbed the 'Bel Air'. It took a few more years before it would become its own distinct series. In 1953, the Bel Air became its own model and was applied to Chevrolet's top-of-the-line model range. By 1955, the cars were offered with an optional V8 engine which greatly improved the cars performance.
In 1953 Chevrolet had three new models and 17 body styles to select from. This was the company's widest range of offerings in its history. The introduction of the Chevrolet was stirring press for the company, but so was the Bel Air, considered the company's Crown Jewel.
The Bel Air Series consisted of a two and four-door sedan, sport coupe, and a convertible coupe. Everything that was standard on the lower priced series was standard on the Bel Air, plus so much more including comfort, convenience and styling options. There was a one-piece curved windshield which added superb visibility. The luggage compartment was massive and the 115-inch wheelbase provided plenty of interior room for its occupants. The 115-horsepower Blue-Flame six-cylinder engine was new and the most powerful engine in Chevrolet's history.
In 1954, the Bel Air was launched as a 1955 model and brought with it a fresh new, elegant look for Chevrolet. With bold features that included hooded headlights, tailfins, wrap-around windshield, and rear fender skirts, the Bel Air was able to out-style the competition. The base engine was a six-cylinder, 115 horsepower power-plant. At a base price of $1095, it was a bargain. It is considered America's first low-priced 'hardtop coupe'. The most famous of the Bel Air engine options was the 283 cubic-inch V-8 small-block, with Ramjet Fuel injection. It delivered one horsepower per cubic inch, a first for production cars. Along with style, the Bel Air was a fast machine. Chevrolet quickly ascertained a reputation for building performance vehicles.
A full-width grill, redesigned front and rear fenders, gas cap behind the left taillight, larger rectangular parking lights, and sweeping side trim were just a few of the changes that set the 1956 Chevrolet apart from the 1955, which had taken the country by storm with its all new body re-design.
For the performance-minded public, the 1956 Chevrolet offered three 265 cubic-inch Turbo-Fire V-8 engine options: base 170 hp, 205 hp 4 bbl and the 225 hp dual 4 bbl.
Chevrolet produced 1,574,740 cars in the 1956 model year, of which 41,268 were Belair Convertibles. The 3,320 pound car cost $2,443 with the base V-8. You could literally load your new Chevy with factory options and accessories and stay under $3,000.
In 1957, the Bel Air grew in length by 2-1/2 inches and received a wider and taller grille. Additional options became available including two-tone interior, power convertible top, shoulder harnesses, tinted glass, seat belts, tissue dispenser, and ventilated seat pads.
In total, there were seven body styles to select from. In 1957, a two-page Chevrolet magazine ad proclaimed that 'Chevy puts the purr in performance'. This Bel Air Convertible, with the optional 245 HP 283 CID small block V-8 equipped with two four barrel carburetors, would certainly deliver on the promise made by the ad copy noted above, delivering a hearty purr from its dual exhausts.
Over the years these popular cars became an icon for the entire generation and they have gone on to become one of the most desirable and collectable post war cars of all. 47,000 Bel Air convertibles were produced in the 1957 model year.
The Chevrolet models grew in length in 1958 and increased in size. The Chevrolet Impala became their top-of-the-line model, followed by the middle-range Bel Air. The front end featured a broad grill with quad headlights.
By the later part of the 1960s, the Chevrolet Bel Air moved into the territory of a fleet vehicle. It was a basic machine built on Chevrolet's large platform and outfitted with few thrills or options. It was a good car though it lacked the prestige of times gone by.
The 1964 Chevrolet Be Air (Series 1600) was Chevrolet's mid-priced line between the basic Biscayne and the Impala.
The Biscayne was discontinued after 1972 and the Bel Air was moved into its place, becoming Chevrolet's low-level model. Production in the United States continued until 1975 though production continued in Canada until 1981.
By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2007
For more information and related vehicles, click hereIn 1953 Chevrolet had three new models and 17 body styles to select from. This was the company's widest range of offerings in its history. The introduction of the Chevrolet was stirring press for the company, but so was the Bel Air, considered the company's Crown Jewel.
The Bel Air Series consisted of a two and four-door sedan, sport coupe, and a convertible coupe. Everything that was standard on the lower priced series was standard on the Bel Air, plus so much more including comfort, convenience and styling options. There was a one-piece curved windshield which added superb visibility. The luggage compartment was massive and the 115-inch wheelbase provided plenty of interior room for its occupants. The 115-horsepower Blue-Flame six-cylinder engine was new and the most powerful engine in Chevrolet's history.
In 1954, the Bel Air was launched as a 1955 model and brought with it a fresh new, elegant look for Chevrolet. With bold features that included hooded headlights, tailfins, wrap-around windshield, and rear fender skirts, the Bel Air was able to out-style the competition. The base engine was a six-cylinder, 115 horsepower power-plant. At a base price of $1095, it was a bargain. It is considered America's first low-priced 'hardtop coupe'. The most famous of the Bel Air engine options was the 283 cubic-inch V-8 small-block, with Ramjet Fuel injection. It delivered one horsepower per cubic inch, a first for production cars. Along with style, the Bel Air was a fast machine. Chevrolet quickly ascertained a reputation for building performance vehicles.
A full-width grill, redesigned front and rear fenders, gas cap behind the left taillight, larger rectangular parking lights, and sweeping side trim were just a few of the changes that set the 1956 Chevrolet apart from the 1955, which had taken the country by storm with its all new body re-design.
For the performance-minded public, the 1956 Chevrolet offered three 265 cubic-inch Turbo-Fire V-8 engine options: base 170 hp, 205 hp 4 bbl and the 225 hp dual 4 bbl.
Chevrolet produced 1,574,740 cars in the 1956 model year, of which 41,268 were Belair Convertibles. The 3,320 pound car cost $2,443 with the base V-8. You could literally load your new Chevy with factory options and accessories and stay under $3,000.
In 1957, the Bel Air grew in length by 2-1/2 inches and received a wider and taller grille. Additional options became available including two-tone interior, power convertible top, shoulder harnesses, tinted glass, seat belts, tissue dispenser, and ventilated seat pads.
In total, there were seven body styles to select from. In 1957, a two-page Chevrolet magazine ad proclaimed that 'Chevy puts the purr in performance'. This Bel Air Convertible, with the optional 245 HP 283 CID small block V-8 equipped with two four barrel carburetors, would certainly deliver on the promise made by the ad copy noted above, delivering a hearty purr from its dual exhausts.
Over the years these popular cars became an icon for the entire generation and they have gone on to become one of the most desirable and collectable post war cars of all. 47,000 Bel Air convertibles were produced in the 1957 model year.
The Chevrolet models grew in length in 1958 and increased in size. The Chevrolet Impala became their top-of-the-line model, followed by the middle-range Bel Air. The front end featured a broad grill with quad headlights.
By the later part of the 1960s, the Chevrolet Bel Air moved into the territory of a fleet vehicle. It was a basic machine built on Chevrolet's large platform and outfitted with few thrills or options. It was a good car though it lacked the prestige of times gone by.
The 1964 Chevrolet Be Air (Series 1600) was Chevrolet's mid-priced line between the basic Biscayne and the Impala.
The Biscayne was discontinued after 1972 and the Bel Air was moved into its place, becoming Chevrolet's low-level model. Production in the United States continued until 1975 though production continued in Canada until 1981.
By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2007
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| Chrysler Group To Auction Chairman And CEO Sergio Marchionne's Customized 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 | |
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 1955
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| 1954 Bel Air | 1956 Bel Air |
