G-BODY TOYS

How to Swap an LS in a G-Body: The Complete Overview

admin — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 16:05:32 +0000

Few upgrades transform a G-Body like a properly executed LS swap. Whether you’re chasing modern reliability, fuel injection, or just raw power, the LS platform offers all three—with near-limitless aftermarket support. But dropping a modern LS into a classic G-Body isn’t just about bolting in horsepower. It’s a detailed process that touches nearly every system in the car, from the drivetrain and engine mounts to fuel delivery, cooling, wiring, and exhaust. In this guide, we’ll walk through what it takes to bring 21st-century performance to your 1980s GM favorite—covering parts selection, modification tips, and the real-world challenges you’ll want to plan for before turning a wrench.

1. Drivetrain & Engine Fitment

Getting the LS to sit correctly in the G-Body frame is the foundation of a successful swap. Proper driveline angles, firewall clearance, and crossmember alignment will save headaches later.

Recommended Components:

Quick Tips:

Match your transmission choice (4L60E, 4L80E, T56, etc.) before buying mounts.
Use a low-profile oil pan (like Holley 302-2) for crossmember clearance.
Verify engine centerline and driveline angle before welding or tightening mounts.

2. Fuel & Fuel Delivery

The LS demands consistent high-pressure fuel delivery (58–65 psi). Your carbureted G-Body’s fuel system will need a full EFI conversion.

Recommended Components:

Pro Tips:

Replace all rubber lines with AN or PTFE hose rated for EFI pressure.
Add a fuel pressure regulator near the engine (58 psi fixed).
Consider a baffled or EFI-ready fuel tank to prevent starvation under acceleration.

3. Cooling System & HVAC Plumbing

Modern LS engines produce more heat than the stock 305 or 307. Upgrading your cooling system ensures reliability and drivability in any climate.

Recommended Components:

Pro Tips:

Use dual electric fans with shroud for maximum efficiency.
Integrate heater core hoses into the LS’s steam ports for proper bleeding.
Keep the thermostat at 180°F for balanced performance and cooling.

4. Exhaust & Headers

Tight G-Body frame rails mean fitment is crucial. Choose LS-specific headers that provide clearance for steering and suspension components.

Recommended Components:

Pro Tips:

Place O₂ sensors 10–12″ after the collector for accurate readings.
Use heat wrap or ceramic coating to protect wiring and floor insulation.
Opt for 2.5–3″ exhaust tubing with an X-pipe for ideal scavenging and tone.

5. Wiring, ECU & Controls

Electrical integration can be intimidating, but modern standalone harnesses make it easier than ever.

Recommended Components:

Pro Tips:

Use a dedicated ground strap between the block, frame, and battery.
Disable VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) in your ECU tune.
Add a tach adapter if retaining the factory G-Body gauge cluster.

6. Accessories & Ancillaries

Power steering, alternator, and A/C setups require thoughtful packaging in the tight G-Body engine bay.

Recommended Components:

Pro Tips:

Match power steering pump pressure (~1,200 psi) to your steering box.
Custom A/C hoses will be needed — measure before crimping.
Use shorter serpentine belts or low-mount alternators for hood clearance.

7. Final Integration & Tuning

After assembly, it’s time to bring your LS to life safely and correctly.

Checklist:

Check for leaks — fuel, coolant, and oil.
Prime the oil system before first startup.
Use HP Tuners or Holley EFI software for base tuning.
Monitor coolant temp and fuel trims during the first drive.
Retorque all mounts and headers after initial heat cycle.

Tuning Tip: A mild street tune — ~13° timing at idle and 14.7 AFR — gives smooth, reliable power while keeping temps under control.

8. Online Guides & Real-World Builds

Learning from others’ experiences saves time and frustration. These threads feature detailed walkthroughs and wiring diagrams:

Conclusion

The LS swap is more than an upgrade — it’s a rebirth for the G-Body platform. With careful planning, quality parts, and proper tuning, your classic can drive like a modern performance car without losing its vintage soul. Whether it’s a Monte, Regal, Cutlass, or El Camino, an LS swap delivers power, reliability, and that unmistakable 1980s attitude… reborn for today’s roads.

Check out “Krusty” on Youtube > https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WNpxEbzkIU
Check out “The Hope Ranch Channel” > https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9s9-gG3JF4g
Slow Car Fix > https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0udOoXtKd8
Tuti Backyard Builds > https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fLyfwgdB00

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Buying a G-Body in 2025: What to Pay, What to Check, and Where to Find One

admin — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 15:49:25 +0000

The G-Body era—spanning from the late 1970s through the 1980s—produced some of the most iconic rear-wheel-drive cars ever built by General Motors. From Monte Carlos and Cutlasses to Regals and El Caminos, these classics continue to attract enthusiasts for their style, simplicity, and endless customization potential. In this guide, we’ll break down what you should look for before buying one of these timeless machines—covering price trends, rust trouble spots, model-specific tips, where to find the best deals, and how to avoid costly surprises once you get your dream G-Body home.

1. The G-Body Market in 2025

Interest in G-Bodies has surged in recent years, especially among younger enthusiasts rediscovering 1980s design. Prices vary widely depending on model, condition, and originality:

Project cars: $1,500 – $5,000
Usually non-running or needing major rust repair. Great for LS-swap candidates.
Drivers: $6,000 – $12,000
Running cars with solid frames and minor cosmetic issues—perfect for weekend enjoyment.
Restored or modified builds: $15,000 – $35,000+
Clean paint, upgraded drivetrains, and modern touches often push values even higher.

Special trims like the Buick Grand National, Monte Carlo SS, and 442 command premium prices, but even base models are gaining collector attention as supply tightens.

2. Where to Find One

Finding the right G-Body can take patience, but the search is part of the fun.

Online listings: eBay Motors, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, ClassicCars.com, and Bring a Trailer regularly feature G-Bodies.
Local leads: Don’t overlook small car shows, swap meets, or old barns—some of the best finds never make it online.
Tip: Always verify photos and communicate directly with the seller to avoid scams or flipped project cars with hidden issues.

3. What to Look for During Inspection

Decades of use and storage mean every G-Body hides a story. Bring a flashlight, magnet, and patience when inspecting.

Body & Rust

Rust is the G-Body’s biggest enemy. Check:

Rear frame rails near the bumper and control-arm mounts
Floor pans and trunk corners
Roof seams and around T-tops (if equipped)
Door bottoms and lower fenders

Fresh undercoating can hide damage—tap with a screwdriver or magnet to confirm solid metal.

Drivetrain

Most cars came with small-block V8s or V6s; many have been swapped. Look for:

Oil leaks, smoke, or excessive blow-by
Transmission shifts (especially TH200C or 200-4R units)
Matching engine codes if originality matters

Suspension & Steering

Loose steering or clunking sounds often mean worn bushings or ball joints. These cars use a four-link rear suspension—budget for new bushings or coil springs.

Interior & Electrical

Cracked dashboards, sagging headliners, and brittle wiring are common but fixable. Verify gauges, lights, heater, and wipers all function before purchase.

4. Paperwork and VIN Verification

Documentation separates solid investments from risky projects.

Decode the VIN to confirm the model, engine, and assembly plant.
Check for a clean title and matching numbers.
Inspect RPO (Regular Production Option) stickers—often found in the trunk or glovebox—for factory options.
Use vehicle-history tools to check for salvage or theft records, especially for Grand Nationals and Monte Carlo SS models.

5. Common Buyer Mistakes

Even seasoned buyers fall for these pitfalls:

Shiny paint over rotten metal. Always prioritize structure over cosmetics.
Underestimating restoration costs. A $5,000 “bargain” car can quickly need $10,000 in repairs.
Ignoring suspension and brakes. Worn bushings and lines affect safety and drivability.
Skipping pre-purchase inspections. Paying a local mechanic for an hour of inspection can save thousands later.
Chasing rare models without research. Verify authenticity—some “SS” or “442” badges are home-made.

6. Negotiation Tips

G-Bodies are popular, but that doesn’t mean you have to overpay.

Do your homework: Search sold listings, not just asking prices.
Bring cash or proof of funds: Sellers respond better to ready buyers.
Use flaws as leverage: Rust, faded paint, or non-functioning A/C can justify discounts.
Be polite but firm: Enthusiast sellers value respect as much as money—sometimes that earns you spare parts or extra info.

7. After You Buy

Congratulations—now the real fun begins.

Do a safety check: Replace fluids, belts, hoses, and inspect brakes.
Document everything: Keep a binder of receipts and photos—helps resale value.
Plan your build: Decide early if you’ll restore, restomod, or go performance-focused.
Join the community: GBODYTOYS, GBodyForum, and social-media groups are invaluable for advice, parts, and inspiration.
Protect your investment: Store it indoors if possible, or use a breathable cover and rust inhibitor if outside.

8. Final Thoughts

The G-Body represents the perfect bridge between classic muscle and modern customization—affordable, stylish, and endlessly modifiable. With prices on the rise, 2025 is a great time to grab one before they become out of reach. Do your homework, inspect carefully, and you’ll end up with a timeless ride that turns heads every time you fire it up.

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2026 Hot Wheels ’87 Buick Regal GNX Treasure Hunt

admin — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 20:55:08 +0000

’87 Buick Regal GNX (JJM00)

Series: Nightspeed
Year: 2026
Number: 9/250 (Mainline), 1/10 (Series)
Treasure Hunt: Yes

The ’87 Buick Regal GNX (JJM00) was released as part of the 2026 Hot Wheels mainline and is the Treasure Hunt for Mix “A.”

This casting features a purple metallic body with white and lavender stripes running across the sides and hood. The sides display a large “87” graphic, with the Treasure Hunt flame logo subtly placed inside the number “8.”

Additional details include tinted windows, a pink interior, and a black plastic Malaysia base. The car rides on black PR5 wheels with white lips.

The packaging artwork depicts the GNX in motion against a blue background, matching the vehicle’s vivid purple color scheme.

Early examples have been predominantly sourced from Malaysia, where initial case assortments were distributed.

To view recent sold prices and availability, visit the following link:
Recent GNX Treasure Hunt sales on eBay

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Meet Adam, A Purist G-Body Collector

admin — Tue, 27 May 2025 02:54:00 +0000

In this video, Adam takes viewers through part of his G-body car collection, focusing primarily on his Monte Carlo SS models. He starts with a rare and well-preserved 1987 Aerocoupe T-top with only 30,000 miles, which he purchased from the original owner and has complete documentation on. Another standout is a 1987 SS with just 9,900 miles, also bought from its original owner after his father quickly acted on an online listing. Several other Monte Carlos are featured, including an 85 SS with 70,000 miles, a pristine 1984 SS with only 5,300 miles, and an original 1983 SS with 7,300 miles. Many of the cars are untouched under the hood, retaining stock features, original paint, and low mileage, with Adam expressing a preference for authenticity—down to insisting on AC Delco batteries for his GM vehicles.

Notably, Adam highlights a 1985 SS with a built 406 engine, which he estimates makes around 450 horsepower, making it a particularly fun car to drive. Another interesting vehicle is a 1986 V6 Monte Carlo that he won on eBay at the opening bid after offering $2,500 over upfront—only to have no one else bid on it. He also features a Choo Choo Customs El Camino SS with 30,000 miles, previously owned by the late founder of Chick-fil-A. Adam’s attachment to Monte Carlos is deeply personal, rooted in childhood memories of riding in his mother’s multiple Monte Carlos in the 1980s. The video showcases not only a rare and valuable collection but also the emotional connections that make these cars special to their owner.

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2025 Autorama (G-Body Edition)

admin — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 17:34:04 +0000

I LOVE AUTORAMA. For me, it’s the unofficial start of car season in Metro Detroit. Michiganders only get so many days to enjoy their money pits, so the sooner, the better. The huge draws seem to be top show car, but I enjoy the daily driver cars that local people put so much time and money into. My main focus are the G-Bodies of course, while my son cared more about the “Toy-A-Rama” section and hoping to score some trading cards. Enjoy.

“So how much does a build like this costs?”, I asked, trying to explain to my son how any car can have a hefty price tag. “About 250,” the builder answered. My son smiled, “$250”. “No, a quarter of a million dollars, $250,000, about 4.5 Hellcats.” My son was still unimpressed. “How much horsepower with the turbos all the way up?”, I followed up. “Around 3000.” Finally a light-bulb went off in my son’s head.

Unlike past years, I feel like the G-Bodies has a solid representation this year. Actually, this may have been the best year for them. Most of the time, G-Bodies have been limited to Grand Nationals and this year, I don’t recall seeing any. Hopefully next year, at least one of my cars will be worthy of the Cobo Hall lights, but until then. Enjoy.

[See image gallery at www.gbodytoys.com]

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1985 Chevrolet El Camino Couldn’t Get More Than $8,000 on BRINGATRAILER

admin — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 22:55:07 +0000

This Black Cherry beauty, a modified 1985 Chevrolet El Camino, boasts a Corvette-sourced 350ci V8, modern upgrades, and enough flair to turn heads at any cruise night. Despite its impressive pedigree, including a $15,950 sale at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale in 2024 and a $15,500 sale at GAA in 2019, the El Camino couldn’t pull in more than an $8,000 bid on Bringatrailer.com—failing to meet its reserve price. It seems the market wasn’t quite ready to put its money where this truck’s rumbling exhaust is. Perhaps bidders were too distracted by the paint’s “clouding,” or maybe they just didn’t know a deal when they saw one. Either way, this SS-style hauler proves that even the coolest rides can have a tough time on the auction block when buyers are bargain hunting. Classic car values may fluctuate, but this one’s worth is clearly in the eye of the beholder—or under the hood.

https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1985-chevrolet-el-camino-31/

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M2 Machines 1987 Buick Regal Target Exclusive

admin — Sat, 04 Jan 2025 01:26:35 +0000

M2 Machines is back at it again with their 27,847,392nd release of the Buick Regal in the last 365 days. This one appears to be exclusive to Target brick and mortar locations. Prices seem to be around $20 on ebay, so if you can hold out until more stores get them between now and mid February 2025, that would be your best bet. The SKU is 32500-96.

@hot.wheels.702
1987 Buick Regal Limited R96 #m2machines #m2machinescollector #m2machinesdiecast #fyp #m2collection #m2machineshunting #buickregal #m2buickregal #1987buickregal #gm
♬ sonido original – CelsoMzda 3

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RAFFLE ALERT – 1985 Buick Regal from @WhipsByWade

admin — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 03:03:22 +0000

In one of the more impressive G-Body Raffle builds, @whipsbywade is offering an 1985 Buick Regal with a list of components that are sure to impress. Your favorite marketed G-Body brands are all checked here: Quick Performance, QA1, Holley, Vintage Air, Spal, Dakota Digital, Forgiato, etc…

The raffle ends January 25, 2025 and there is no set amount of entries (which means it’s based on how many people enter and that number to my knowledge is not public).

https://www.facebook.com/WhipsByWade
https://www.instagram.com/WhipsByWade
Enter Raffle (hosted on Raffle Creator) – https://rafflecreator.com/pages/88772/1985-buick-regal-lisa-bonet

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Wade (@whipsbywade)

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Kevin Earle’s STOLEN Monte Carlo SS Returned

admin — Sat, 09 Nov 2024 01:25:00 +0000

Hank, a meticulously modified 1986 Monte Carlo SS, is more than just a car to its owner in North Carolina—it’s a labor of love. Equipped with a 355 small block Chevy, 17” N90 wheels, and a complete suspension overhaul, Hank was built to perform. The car boasts @qa1motorsports upper and lower control arms with coilovers up front and @umiperformanceinc tubular trailing arms with QA1 coilovers in the rear. A regular on the Autocross circuit, Hank was designed to handle corners as sharply as it turns heads. But on the night of October 28, 2024, the unthinkable happened: someone broke into the owner’s shop and stole the car in the early hours of Monday morning.

Describing the loss as devastating, the owner took to social media to plead for Hank’s safe return, writing, “Someone or ones stole my 1986 Monte Carlo SS from my shop last night about 2:36am.” Days passed without word, leaving him uncertain if he’d ever see his prized possession again. Fortunately, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department came through, recovering Hank and returning him to his rightful owner. While the details of the recovery remain undisclosed, Hank’s return is a testament to the value of community and swift police action. Now back in its garage, the Monte Carlo SS can once again prepare to dominate the Autocross track.

[See image gallery at www.gbodytoys.com]

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M2 Machines 1987 Buick Regal Limited – SEMA Exclusive

admin — Sat, 02 Nov 2024 17:52:10 +0000

A good old American lowrider joins the lineup of SEMA 2024 specials. This 1987 Buick Regal (model number 32500-FL03 ; 24-127) is skinned in Metallic Purple and features an intricate and vibrant stripping pattern indicative to lowrider car culture. Further enhancing the Regal’s body styling is a set of custom Chrome wire wheels and low profile thin white wall tires. A look through the clear windows offers a view of the Cool Grey stock bench seat interior while nestled between the inner fender wells lies a stock powerplant. This beauty is also offered in a chase variation (400 pieces), easily recognizable by its Chrome Gold time, bumpers, and rims.

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