I'm a bit of a suspension / chassis newbie here, so please forgive any perceived ignorance...

I have an '87 Trans Am with the intimidating LG4 engine... In the not too distant future (6 to possibly 12 months) I plan on dropping a 350/383 in there. I know I need to work on my chassis, suspension and brakes before putting in the 350/383.

My question is should I start with installing subframe connectors, strut tower brace, and a steering brace now, before putting in the larger power plant, or can I wait until I put in the 350. (A search of the board resulted in very mixed answers and left me more confused than anything else... )

I don't think I want to go with a cage; are there any other things I should consider to stiffen her up and improve performance even more? This will be a street-only car.

 

I would defintely go with SFC and STB as soon as possible.. more so the SFC beacuse they really stiffen up the car.. A new set of shocks/struts and springs couldn't hurt either since the car is about 18 yrs old now.. KYB is the best bang for the buck on struts, but there are many other brands out there.. Wonderbar I've always had on my car from the factory so I can't say how well that works but most like them, Spohn or TDS sell them.. Good luck with your project!