Swap Insanity: A Little HHR Panel is Getting a Big LS1

Figuratively speaking, that is. We all know that the LS engine isn’t big, it’s the perfect size for just about any project.

LS1Tech forum member, Iasater, is undertaking a build that we have yet to see done – a Chevrolet HHR Panel with an LS1 powerplant and a solid rear axle. As far as we know, the project was started in May of 2013 and was just recently updated with some photos of the progress thus far. From what we can see, the build looks great and it’s going to be quite the sleeper once it hits the streets.

Image/s missing.

So far, the engine and trans have been mocked up, the rearend and suspension have been laid out, and the driveshaft was set up with a torque arm. The sheet metal work has been mocked up as well; it just needs to be welded up before the final assembly. Iasater stated that the transmission is finished being rebuilt with a Corvette servo and shift kit – the engine will be rebuilt in the next few weeks. All that’s left to finish up are the rear wheel tubs, the driveshaft hump, and installing the fuel cell. The whole project will be tied together with a 2001 Camaro Z/28 wiring harness as well.

As stated earlier, the LS engine is perfect size and seeing it in the engine bay of the HHR just confirms that statement even further. Iasater claims that he will have the project running by summer of 2015, so keep an eye on his build thread. We can’t wait to see this project finished because it’s definitely going to catch unknowing car enthusiasts off guard.