Recently, Concept ONE had the opportunity to show its strength through a car build of epic scale. Kent Waters of Kent Waters Originals has some serious muscle behind this First-Gen Camaro. The build is on a NASCAR-team level. No, seriously, it’s being built for Rick Hendrick of Hendrick Motorsports.

To put it simply, this is no run-of-the-mill First-Gen Camaro build. Nothing is being left for chance, and when you’re making a statement there’s nothing better than sealing the deal with a ZR-1 powerplant; lifted from the pages of a GM parts catalog.

If that’s not enough, Detroit Speed & Engineering (DSE) was called in to support the build with its subframe while Brembo brakes is assuring its all going to be able to withstand halting this sled when need be. Of course, we’re no strangers to Concept ONE either. Stay tuned for a complete small-block Chevy serpentine kit install on one of our very own project builds.

A problem arose when there was no way to mount the factory A/C compressor to the LS9 without cutting into DSE’s hydroformed sub-frame. Obviously, that wasn’t an option and through some research and development on Concept ONE’s part, they were able to find a solution.

Concept ONE decided on going with the Sanden SD-7 compressor for its superior, compact design and bulletproof reliability. Concept ONE also designed a custom set of brackets and a method for mounting the tensioner along with an idler pulley to route the belt around the waterpump. With three months into measuring, designing, machining, and fitting, Concept ONE pulled through in a pinch.

Keeping with the factory appearance, Concept ONE opted for their black anodized finish on all the brackets and pulleys, while a cast finish was left for the A/C compressor and tensioner.