Modern Upgrades

Brake, Suspension, Body Swaps, & Drivetrain

C2 Corvette Custom Restomod Chicago Illiniois

Are you looking for increased performance, along with higher reliability and improved handling? The Hot Rod Barn has extensive experience with modernizing muscle cars and transforming them into something you can truly enjoy. We also feature Art Morrison chassis in many of our Pro Touring and Restomod builds.  Our GT Sport and Max G chassis options will transform your hot rod into a true restomod.

Modern Engines

Whether you want a crate engine from GM Performance or a custom-built and supercharged LS/BBC/SBC, we will collaborate with you and our partners to match you to the correct engine for your needs. In addition, our on-site Chassis Dyno provides you with a turnkey performance solution.

Fuel System

An EFI or LS swap will require a complete redesign of your fuel system. The increased fuel pressures will require a thoughtfully planned fuel delivery/return system, fuel pressure regulation, and a high-pressure fuel pump located either in-tank or externally. The Hot Rod Barn can help design a fuel system that is appropriate for your performance needs. Aeromotive, Holley, Ricks Tanks, and others are great options.

LS3 Engine Swap Camaro

Suspension

Does the handling of your muscle car feel like you are riding on an old sofa? Your vehicle is capable of much better handling than when it initially rolled off the production line. Improvements are numerous, and it is possible to make significant upgrades that make your ride more responsive or feel like it was on rails. The options depend on both your vehicle and expectations but could include a change to A-Arm design, coil-over suspension, air ride suspension, or independent suspension, among many others. The Hot Rod Barn has many options to choose from, including Heidts, QA1, Ridetech, and Viking Performance, so let us recommend a solution that suits your needs.

Radiators

Gone are the days when you feel forced to turn on your heater in the middle of summer to prevent your car from overheating. Modern cooling options have also evolved a great deal from those originally appearing in muscle cars and classics. Electric fans, dual-pass radiators, integrated brake cooling / trans cooling/steam vents can make both you and your car a lot cooler. The Hot Rod Barn is a dealer for BeCool, and we will identify a system that effectively transfers heat.

The Hot Rod Barn

Brakes

A disc brake conversion will significantly increase your stopping power. At The Hot Rod Barn, we recommend a braking system that suits your needs. Among the options are 4-piston or 6-piston calipers, Big Brake Kits, or hydraulically boosted systems. The Hot Rod Barn is also an approved dealer for Wilwood and Baer products.

Air Conditioning

The efficiency and effectiveness of a modernized A/C system are worthy of consideration. These units provide a quick chill and take up a lot less space than they did originally. The Hot Rod Barn is an approved dealer for Vintage Air, and we can install a system to fit your needs.

The Hot Rod Barn
Dodge Charger Muscle Car Restoration Restomod

Engine Bay Refinishing or Custom Fabrication

Showcase that new or existing engine through either restoration or complete custom fabrication. We can restore or modernize your engine compartment to look at good as your exterior. Smoothing the firewall, custom paint, or fabrication can all be done at The Hot Rod Barn.