Classic Bel Air Meets LS3 Connect And Cruise

There’s nothing better than a classic hot rod with a modern powertrain and increased horsepower. This 1956 Bel-Air Sport Sedan project has a unique look and reliable power. Dustin Wilson gives us the rundown on ‘Bela’ and takes us for a ride. As we get started, he jumps right into the heart of the Bel-Air.

LS3 Connect And Cruise

At the heart of Bela is the LS3 Connect and Cruise Kit, which includes the engine, transmission, and the controls to retrofit everything to your classic. Are you interested in retrofitting your classic with an LS3? Check out the kits offered here at Karl’s Kustoms.

Diving into the LS3 Connect and Cruise System, Dustin highlights the 430 HP, 425Lb.-ft of torque, and the aluminum cylinder block and heads. They offer a more lightweight power-per-pound package than OEM engines which can reduce curb weight and help with weight distribution. The light composite intake also helps keep weight low in the engine bay.

Further back, the 4L60 5E Automatic Transmission helps put down the power and does well at highway cruising speeds. Dustin also mentions the included Engine Control System, Torque Converter, Transmission Control System, and 4L60 Installation Kit.

Test Drive

Getting out on the road, Dustin gives us his immediate impressions as he uses the resto-mod shifter to get into gear. Cruising the back streets, he found the torque stood out for the 3400lb car. Dustin mentions Bela is straightforward to use and only needed about a quarter throttle to get up to speed. On throttle, he found some significant high-end horsepower helping to keep the classic Bel Air up at pace. He also mentions the powertrain being an excellent fit for Bela.

Chat With The Builder

Dustin then heads over to Retro Speed Design and Custom in North Carolina to chat with Daniel about the build. Daniel and Dustin discuss the Chevrolet LS3 Connect and Cruise kit. Later, Daniel highlights how everything from the engine control unit to transmission controls was clearly labeled and well-laid out. Even though Dustin worked in a professional garage, he recommends LS3 Connect and Cruise package to anybody, from the do-it-yourselfer in the garage to the professional technician. Dustin also highlights the easy directions and helpful tech support during the installation. All in all, an excellent package for almost anything you want! As Dustin heads out, he takes Bela for one last cruise on those Carolina back roads.

At Karl Kustoms, you can be sure our team knows your classic hot rod. In our restoration shop, our team has worked with countless classics and personal projects. With our experienced technicians on staff, you can be sure your parts will be certain to keep your car cruising. With a central location in Iowa, you can be sure of fast shipping to both coasts and free shipping on orders over $99 in the Contiguous U.S.