caprice to impala conversion

[evildragon]

I was thinking of doing this to my Caprice. I recently found out that my engine in my Caprice, was infact an LT1, and NOT the stock L99.. I had found the block numbers on the engine, and was shocked to what I saw.

So, Being that, I really really REALLY want to convert my Caprice to an Impala SS..

How hard would this be? I imagine the only thing I'd need to change is the hood (for the different grill), the trunk (didn't the impala SS have a spoiler), and the dashboard...

I think that's about it.. But, if I'm missing something, or if im dreaming and this can't be done, please let me know...

Oh yea, and paint it black, and get the logo replaced...

[silicon212]

Originally Posted by evildragon

I was thinking of doing this to my Caprice. I recently found out that my engine in my Caprice, was infact an LT1, and NOT the stock L99.. I had found the block numbers on the engine, and was shocked to what I saw.

So, Being that, I really really REALLY want to convert my Caprice to an Impala SS..

How hard would this be? I imagine the only thing I'd need to change is the hood (for the different grill), the trunk (didn't the impala SS have a spoiler), and the dashboard...

I think that's about it.. But, if I'm missing something, or if im dreaming and this can't be done, please let me know...

Oh yea, and paint it black, and get the logo replaced...

What year is your car? If it's a '94, you will also need to add the quarter window trim. '95-'96 already have this modification. The spoiler is bolt-on, as is the grille - no need to replace the hood and deck lid. The wheels, as well as the fact the Impala SS has rear disc brakes and the civvy Caprice does not (but the 9C1 does - albeit 1" narrower). There are other things, too - but I am not quite sure. Blue Bowtie should be able to tell you what all you'd need.

[evildragon]

It is indeed a 94.. It's the one in my picture.

the thing though, is that the hood has the ornament and the hole for it, the impala hood doesn't.. i'd had to have to plug up the hole, and has some "lump" there.. also for the trunk, i'd hate to have to drill holes for the spoiler.. i may have tools for it, but i know i'd make it crooked..

It sounds like this conversion may be more work than I thought, or will cost a lot more money than I planned..

I'm still 50/50 on this idea...

['97ventureowner]

Here's an interesting read I came across awhile back about Caprices and the Impala SS. It came out in 1994 and it might have some interesting info for you to use in determining what else you'll need. Imagine that a base SS back then could be had for only $23,000!
http://www.9c1.com/gallery/articles/lineage.htm

[evildragon]

I'll keep those in mind, thanks...

Btw, how can you tell the difference between an L99 and an LT1, without having to look at the casting number? Is there any cosmetic differences one can tell, just by looking at it?

[96capricemgr]

Need to look at block or head numbers.
Put it this way the current brute that is under the hood wears the intake, valvecovers and a few other parts from the original L99, because they were the same parts delivered on the LT1.