My $1,500 69 GTO project

[67speedfreak]

I finally started my GTO project. I have always wanted a 69 GTO and have been half ass looking on Craig's List now and then.
So a couple months ago I saw this ad for a 69 GTO for 1500 bucks. This was a Thursday and I was at work. I called the guy he still had it so I closed the shop and drove 4 hours to look at it. I think it was well worth the money.

Car is pretty original has all original drive line. There was a Buick motor installed but I have the original engine.

So now the dilemma, Keep it original or Pro Tour the hell out of it ! :) Well I think you can probably guess the direction I am leaning.


Here are some pics.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/IMG_9248JPG-1.jpg

[67speedfreak]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/IMG_9250JPG-1.jpg

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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/IMG_9252JPG-1.jpg

[im4u2nvss]

Its a start! Thanks for saving another classic from the crusher.

[BuzzKillian]

Man.... Does that bring back memories... Looking forward to the rebuild!

[shortrack]

Run the VIN and see what it came with. Only the super high option hi po cars are worth anything in original condition. PT it.

[SShep71]

Is it a true "242" car? Its all there, its weathered BUT its a good start. Like mentioned before, unless you have a car with rare options PT the pants off it. Is there a build sheet? a cowl tag?

[Tango68SS]

Brian,

I was by the shop yesterday and took a look at your new "toy"... Well you know the route I vote for!! PT the hell out of that bitch! Get a new GTO drivetrain in it (LS2/T56) with all the GTO trimmings, paint it Hot Rod black, then drive the HELL out of it!
TC

[67speedfreak]

Its a start! Thanks for saving another classic from the crusher.

Yes it is a start ! :) My pleasure !

[67speedfreak]

Yes it is a true 242 VIN, Car has manual drums, automatic, A/C. Not a high option car.
It does have the trim and VIN tags and a clear title in my name.

PT it is ! :)

[67speedfreak]

Brian,

I was by the shop yesterday and took a look at your new "toy"... Well you know the route I vote for!! PT the hell out of that bitch! Get a new GTO drivetrain in it (LS2/T56) with all the GTO trimmings, paint it Hot Rod black, then drive the HELL out of it!
TC

Sorry I missed you man ! You know I can't leave it stock ! :) Looks like I am going to run the LS2 in this puppy.

[67speedfreak]

Here are some shots of the tear down.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/IMG_9533JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/IMG_9577JPG-1.jpg

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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/IMG_9507JPG-1.jpg

[67speedfreak]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/IMG_9540JPG-1.jpg

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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/IMG_9600JPG-1.jpg

As you can see I found a lot of rust.

[mikes2nd]

just to rub the pain in more.. But I have gone through your pain on a rebuild, no where near that.

78259wowsers...

that thing is annihilated...

I just bought a perfect zero rust shell with frame rolling for 850$... it pains me to see that much rust and I am thanking heaven right now for my luck.

I had to buy this of course, I have to store it in a storage unit also...

[T_Raven]

Nice. I've always loved 69 GTOs. I had a 69 Tempest I was going to make look like a GTO but sold it when I was kinda broke. Wasn't broke anymore shortly there after so I regret selling it. Their not so easy to find. I'll be waiting to see what you do with this one.

[67speedfreak]

Nice. I've always loved 69 GTOs. I had a 69 Tempest I was going to make look like a GTO but sold it when I was kinda broke. Wasn't broke anymore shortly there after so I regret selling it. Their not so easy to find. I'll be waiting to see what you do with this one.

Thanks, To bad about the Tempest !

[67speedfreak]

I Made a little progress on the GTO.

Got the firewall and cowl area sand blasted and in epoxy.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/IMG_9656JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/IMG_9664JPG-1.jpg

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[brnzbuddha]

Good luck! I'm anxious to see what comes of this!

[ekmxryda]

Looks to be in better shape than mine when it came back from media blasting. Are you going to mini tub it? What are your suspension plans?
Eric

[67speedfreak]

Looks to be in better shape than mine when it came back from media blasting. Are you going to mini tub it? What are your suspension plans?
Eric

I would love to tub it but not sure if I have the time, may just get the metal work done and drive it a while and then tub it.

Suspension will get coil overs with new control arms and Trailing arms, sway bars. Don't have a huge budget for this, I'm building three cars at this point. Most likely I will use C-6 brakes.

Brian

[Steve68]

Very cool, Still have Agent O ???

[cwmiller]

Looking forward to watching this one. Subscribed.

[ekmxryda]

Yeah its a big commitment to mini tub it, I am still planning to do it but I know at the rate I work it wont be done for a while.
Was checking out Roadster Shop frames and front crossmember suspension kits but I need to control myself.
I think I will go with this extended travel coilover kit from Global West in the front. Then coilovers and Watts link out back.
http://www.globalwest.net/64-72pontiac-control-arms.html
http://scandc.com/new/node/253

[rohrt]

Subscribed

[67speedfreak]

Yeah its a big commitment to mini tub it, I am still planning to do it but I know at the rate I work it wont be done for a while.
Was checking out Roadster Shop frames and front crossmember suspension kits but I need to control myself.
I think I will go with this extended travel coilover kit from Global West in the front. Then coilovers and Watts link out back.
http://www.globalwest.net/64-72pontiac-control-arms.html
http://scandc.com/new/node/253

I like the extended coilover kit. I will be doing something similar. RS stuff is killer wish I had the funds !

[67speedfreak]

Smoothed the firewall this weekend and had to graft a piece in around the steering column that was rusted.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/IMG_9854JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/IMG_9852_1JPG-1.jpg

[67speedfreak]

Very cool, Still have Agent O ???

Yes Sir ! :)

[67speedfreak]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/IMG_9856JPG-1.jpg

[bmcgauhey]

Brian, I really appreciate you taking the time to take and post all these pictures of your different builds. You do great work and are a major inspiration to myself and I'm sure may others. I am redoing my 69 camaro now and probably never would have attempted it without looking over the hundreds of pictures you've posted showing the steps you take. I thank you.

I am going to be in Jacksonville, Florida the later part of October (In-Laws) so I planned on droping the wife off and making the trip south to see your shop if thats OK, would like to buy you lunch as a way to say thanks.

Bryan McGauhey

[67speedfreak]

Brian, I really appreciate you taking the time to take and post all these pictures of your different builds. You do great work and are a major inspiration to myself and I'm sure may others. I am redoing my 69 camaro now and probably never would have attempted it without looking over the hundreds of pictures you've posted showing the steps you take. I thank you.

I am going to be in Jacksonville, Florida the later part of October (In-Laws) so I planned on droping the wife off and making the trip south to see your shop if thats OK, would like to buy you lunch as a way to say thanks.

Bryan McGauhey

Bryan,

Your more than welcome to visit the shop just give me some notice. :)
Thank you for the kind words, nice to be appreciated !

Brian

[67speedfreak]

I made some progress on the GTO this weekend.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/IMG_9914JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/IMG_9881JPG-1.jpg

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Almost ready to weld in the upper cowl.

[67speedfreak]

Thought I would post a little update.

I have the upper cowl welded in. Now I am working on the Hinge pillars.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/IMG_9981JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/IMG_0044JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/IMG_0048JPG-1.jpg

[car_guy]

I made some progress on the GTO this weekend.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/IMG_9914JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/IMG_9881JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/IMG_9895JPG-1.jpg

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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/IMG_9917JPG-1.jpg

Almost ready to weld in the upper cowl.

Firewall is lookin pretty...Im trying to get the same result on mine right now, but its not going so hot. Your goat is gonna clean up nice at this rate!

[69*Goat]

Very nice!! Looking forward to see the finished product.

[67speedfreak]

Firewall is lookin pretty...Im trying to get the same result on mine right now, but its not going so hot. Your goat is gonna clean up nice at this rate!

Thanks, Yeah I had a lot of rust to deal with.

[67speedfreak]

Very nice!! Looking forward to see the finished product.

Thanks, Hopefully it will come out as nice as yours !

[67speedfreak]

Mike mocked up some vette wheels on the goat.

275/18 front
325/19 rear

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/IMG_0126JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/IMG_0130JPG-1.jpg

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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/IMG_0136JPG-1.jpg

[67speedfreak]

I made a little more progress.
Got the rust repaired in the left hinge pillar and it's going back together.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/IMG_0144JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/IMG_0154JPG-1.jpg

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[Rimmo]

Hi

Great work. I'm enjoying your projects. Do you mind me asking, what is the silver finish you are putting on your repairs before the final coat of black epoxy primer? Is it some kind of weld through primer?

[SShep71]

WAIT WAIT WAIT..... 325 rear? RUH ROOOO SHAGGY! I am gonna need somemore infor on this, as I shall be ordering my wheels in a few months

[67speedfreak]

WAIT WAIT WAIT..... 325 rear? RUH ROOOO SHAGGY! I am gonna need somemore infor on this, as I shall be ordering my wheels in a few months

ZONKS ! LOL !

They are a very tight fit ! There is only about a 1/4 clearance to the inside.

I plan on mini tubing it.

[67speedfreak]

Hi

Great work. I'm enjoying your projects. Do you mind me asking, what is the silver finish you are putting on your repairs before the final coat of black epoxy primer? Is it some kind of weld through primer?

Thanks, I apply the epoxy to bare metal. I do use weld through between weld joints.

[67speedfreak]

Hinge pillar welded up. Fitting tulips .

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/IMG_0168JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/IMG_0170JPG-1.jpg

[67speedfreak]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/IMG_0195JPG-1.jpg

[car_guy]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/IMG_0195JPG-1.jpg

Z06 wheels look badass!

[cwmiller]

Checking in for updates. Looks great by the way, inspiring work!

[analyte]

Nice fab work and great skills!

[67speedfreak]

Checking in for updates. Looks great by the way, inspiring work!

Thanks Cameron ! I did manage to repair the upper dash panel, I'll post a pic.

[67speedfreak]

Nice fab work and great skills!

Thank you Sir !

[67speedfreak]

I repaired the upper dash panel by cutting the leading edge off and repairing with a Chevelle piece.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/IMG_0227JPG-1.jpg

[cwmiller]

Looks nice. I've got the same issue on my car and wasn't sure how to handle it, but this helps! I really like that three GTO builds are going on and are all being mini tubbed.

[SShep71]

< Four GTO builds. Mine is just on hold for a little until I get back. haha

[car_guy]

Mike mocked up some vette wheels on the goat.

275/18 front
325/19 rear

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/IMG_0126JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/IMG_0130JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/IMG_0131JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/IMG_0136JPG-1.jpg

Keep the sheet metal updates coming, love seeing that stuff! Gets me pumped to do my crap. What size spacers for the vette wheels?

[cwmiller]

SShep71
< Four GTO builds. Mine is just on hold for a little until I get back. haha

I stand corrected, haha.

[67speedfreak]

Looks nice. I've got the same issue on my car and wasn't sure how to handle it, but this helps! I really like that three GTO builds are going on and are all being mini tubbed.

I agree I like watching everyones progress !

I believe we used 2in spacers and then another 1/4.

They are really tight, I will be mini tubing also.

Brian

[FRENCHBLUE72]

Good looking build you have going tuned in for this one..

[67speedfreak]

I got a chance to work on the goat again this weekend.

Started the repairs on the right side hinge pillar.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/IMG_0234JPG-1.jpg

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[67speedfreak]

Good looking build you have going tuned in for this one..

Thanks

[blade]

Great build and great fab skills! Those repairs look awesome!

[67speedfreak]

Good looking build you have going tuned in for this one..

Thanks !

[67speedfreak]

Great build and great fab skills! Those repairs look awesome!

Thanks, I appreciate it !

[67speedfreak]

Made a little progress.
Ready to go back together.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/11/IMG_0252JPG-1.jpg

[LT1Nova]

Are those 325's going to work with stock tubs?


Mike mocked up some vette wheels on the goat.

275/18 front
325/19 rear

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/IMG_0126JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/IMG_0130JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/IMG_0131JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/IMG_0136JPG-1.jpg

[67speedfreak]

I got the right hinge pillar repairs done.

Also picked up an LS2 Block on Craig's list.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/11/IMG_0337JPG-1.jpg

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[67speedfreak]

I started working on the package tray.
I am using a repro from a 70 Chevelle. the radius at the back window were the upper filler panel welds is too straight. I have to mod it.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/IMG_0374JPG-1.jpg

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[mueen]

Looks Great! What size spacers did you use for the wheels?

[67speedfreak]

Are those 325's going to work with stock tubs?

Well depends on what you call working. It is very tight you could roll the lip and raise the ride height but they are really to big. I will be mini tubbing.

Thanks

[67speedfreak]

Looks Great! What size spacers did you use for the wheels?

Thanks, 2.25 inches

[67speedfreak]

Time for an update.

Inner tulips are done so I decided to put her on the jig and get busy cutting.

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[67speedfreak]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/IMG_0539JPG-1.jpg

We also are working on building LS motor mounts. Looks like a nice fit with an F-body pan even the lower alternator bracket clears.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/IMG_0534JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/IMG_0532JPG-1.jpg

[ekmxryda]

Wow big step today! Looks good.
Thats a lot of spot welds to drill out. I have wanted to get one of these, do you have one?
http://www.matcotools.com/catalog/product/SE127/SPOT-WELD-DRILL/

[67speedfreak]

Wow big step today! Looks good.
Thats a lot of spot welds to drill out. I have wanted to get one of these, do you have one?
http://www.matcotools.com/catalog/product/SE127/SPOT-WELD-DRILL/

Thanks, she is getting there. I use a Roto Broach. That tool looks nice my have to check in to it.

[67speedfreak]

Worked on fitting toe board patches today. The passenger side was pretty accurate but the drivers needed a lot of reshaping.

Just about ready to sand blast again.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/IMG_0552JPG-1.jpg

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[67speedfreak]

Here is a little update on my GTO,

I got drivers side rocker, toe board and inner quarter support patches done.
I also got started on the chassis.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/IMG_0643JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/IMG_0657JPG-1.jpg

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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/IMG_0652JPG-1.jpg

[67speedfreak]

I got the extended coil over mounts welded in and making closeouts for the frame.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/IMG_0671JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/IMG_0673JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/IMG_0665JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/IMG_0669JPG-1.jpg

[ekmxryda]

Looks good!
I see the new GTO floor up against the wall over there too.
What car will be done first? The Fairlane or GTO?

[cwmiller]

Looking good! Wish I could get off these rigs long enough to work on my GTO. Who did you use for the coil mounts?

[Nothingface5384]

I got the extended coil over mounts welded in and making closeouts for the frame.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/IMG_0671JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/IMG_0673JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/IMG_0665JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/IMG_0669JPG-1.jpg

are these the UMI performance brackets or did you buy them from Global west?

[67speedfreak]

Looks good!
I see the new GTO floor up against the wall over there too.
What car will be done first? The Fairlane or GTO?

I'm sure the Fairlane will be done first ! :)

[67speedfreak]

Looking good! Wish I could get off these rigs long enough to work on my GTO. Who did you use for the coil mounts?

Thanks, They are Global west Extended coilover mounts.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Killer project.. Pro-Touring on this one was definitely the right way to go!!

[67speedfreak]

Killer project.. Pro-Touring on this one was definitely the right way to go!!

Thanks !

[67speedfreak]

Got a chance to work on the Goat today.

I got most of the main frame closed out.

Can't wait to narrow the frame ! :)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0735JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0737JPG-1.jpg

[wayward]

I love watching people do great work...

Good job!

[67speedfreak]

I love watching people do great work...

Good job!

Thanks Bro !

[linkstar69]

Man that's a lot of work! Great job saving this one, I don't think many people could bring this one back from the condition it was in.

[67speedfreak]

Well Mike and I THRASHED UNTILL 4:00 am last night on the Goat!

Real happy with the progress. here's where we are.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0759JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0760JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0745JPG-1.jpg

And the game changer !

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0765JPG-1.jpg

[67speedfreak]

The passenger side frame rail is moved in 2in.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0776JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0771JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0770JPG-1.jpg

[Tango68SS]

Brian,

Your vision is truly remarkable, as well as your talent is too!! (Folks: this car was another one of Brian's "basket cases")... Who says tubbing a Goat is impossible!! Hell just move the frame rails in two inches! :)

Though I know you are hell-bent on black, I still vote for silver with brushed aluminum wheels!

TC

[Dave B]

I enjoy every update, and I'm not even into GTO's.....

[Gratefuldiver]

Get a MR1 block and keep it Pontiac. To many of these Pontiacs are being converted to LS engines. Very sad

[67speedfreak]

Brian,

Your vision is truly remarkable, as well as your talent is too!! (Folks: this car was another one of Brian's "basket cases")... Who says tubbing a Goat is impossible!! Hell just move the frame rails in two inches! :)

Though I know you are hell-bent on black, I still vote for silver with brushed aluminum wheels!

TC

Thanks TC ! I really appreciate it !

It was great seeing you the other day, hope to see you at some shows soon !

Brian

[67speedfreak]

I enjoy every update, and I'm not even into GTO's.....

Well thanks Dave ! I'm glad your enjoying them ! :)

[JoeyP]

Looking awesome, nice jig setup. Good idea mocking up the full floor on the frame to check for clearance issues.

[rohrt]

Is that floor and trunk pan one piece or two?

[67speedfreak]

Is that floor and trunk pan one piece or two?

The floor and trunk are separate pieces, thanks.

[67rally]

Get a MR1 block and keep it Pontiac. To many of these Pontiacs are being converted to LS engines. Very sad

Nothing says he can't use an '05-'06 Pontiac GTO LS2 engine. Why go through all the work to build a PT car and then keep the engine old school?

[rickpaw]

Nothing says he can't use an '05-'06 Pontiac GTO LS2 engine. Why go through all the work to build a PT car and then keep the engine old school?

But but, it's not a real Pontiac engine.

Love watching your work Brian.

[Joker69Camaro]

Awesome work as always! The more work I see done buy you the more I wish my Camaro could make the trip across state for some body work. Mini-tubing that GTO is making the impossible a reality!

[srh3trinity]

The L76 and LS3 from the Pontiac G8 count as keeping it Pontiac in my book. Mine is getting an LS3 plus a few extra cubic inches.

[SShep71]

Gotta love the argument for old iron. "Put modern suspension in there, modern brakes, modern trans, modernize the hell out of the car but don't you touch that inefficient old iron, because that would take away the cars originality" WAA WAAA WAAAAAA


Car looks good, it's making me jealous that I am not working on mine.

[67speedfreak]

Nothing says he can't use an '05-'06 Pontiac GTO LS2 engine. Why go through all the work to build a PT car and then keep the engine old school?

Exactly ! I have an LS2 for it ! Wish I could afford an LS3.

[67speedfreak]

But but, it's not a real Pontiac engine.

Love watching your work Brian.

Sure it is ! :) Thanks !

[67speedfreak]

Awesome work as always! The more work I see done buy you the more I wish my Camaro could make the trip across state for some body work. Mini-tubing that GTO is making the impossible a reality!

Thanks, Let me know when your ready for that Body work ! :)

[67speedfreak]

The L76 and LS3 from the Pontiac G8 count as keeping it Pontiac in my book. Mine is getting an LS3 plus a few extra cubic inches.

Now I'm jealous !

[67speedfreak]

Gotta love the argument for old iron. "Put modern suspension in there, modern brakes, modern trans, modernize the hell out of the car but don't you touch that inefficient old iron, because that would take away the cars originality" WAA WAAA WAAAAAA


Car looks good, it's making me jealous that I am not working on mine.

I agree SShep, Just doesn't make sense to me to use the old iron. The LS2 is lighter, stronger and will make the car handle better. Thanks

[SShep71]

The weight isnt even a factor. Just the engineering and efficiency of the LS motors are leaps and bounds better than the iron. Thats not even considering the power potential, however I digress. I dont want to turn your thread into a Poncho vs. LS debate. The work is awesome and I love seeing more Pontiac builds going on that arent F-bodies.

[rickpaw]

Sure it is ! :) Thanks !

I was being sarcastic. :)


Gotta love the argument for old iron. "Put modern suspension in there, modern brakes, modern trans, modernize the hell out of the car but don't you touch that inefficient old iron, because that would take away the cars originality" WAA WAAA WAAAAAA


Car looks good, it's making me jealous that I am not working on mine.

I was at a car show last weekend, and a guy walked up glanced over my car and said "you ruined the car". I said "why?". He pointed out the LS engine, and plus other things that were "wrong" with the car. His car is a 68 Firebird, with custom 2 tone paint job, drop spindles, 18" wheels, Wilwoods, Camaro rear spoiler, but it has a "proper" Pontiac 350 (albeit done in chrome and billet pieces).:screwy:

Purists drive me nuts.

[car_guy]

Killer work as always! Can't wait for more on this!!

[67speedfreak]

I was being sarcastic. :)



I was at a car show last weekend, and a guy walked up glanced over my car and said "you ruined the car". I said "why?". He pointed out the LS engine, and plus other things that were "wrong" with the car. His car is a 68 Firebird, with custom 2 tone paint job, drop spindles, 18" wheels, Wilwoods, Camaro rear spoiler, but it has a "proper" Pontiac 350 (albeit done in chrome and billet pieces).:screwy:

Purists drive me nuts.

I know ! :) And I agree some people are just silly !

[67speedfreak]

OK, so I decided on 3.25 a side on the rails which puts me at an even 40 inches outside to outside on my frame rails.

I have the passenger rail welded and the drivers trimmed and clamped.

Also mocked up the original rear, looks good. I need to fab up some lower control arm and shock brackets.

I also got some Johnny joints in to fab my own trailing arms.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0780JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0781JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0783JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0777JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0788JPG-1.jpg

[ekmxryda]

Hey nice work!
If you don't have shock tabs yet here is a good source, and they have control arm brackets that you might be able to adapt to your setup.

http://www.ballisticfabrication.com/Brackets-and-Tabs_c_11.html

[67speedfreak]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_0794JPG-1.jpg

[67speedfreak]

Hey nice work!
If you don't have shock tabs yet here is a good source, and they have control arm brackets that you might be able to adapt to your setup.

http://www.ballisticfabrication.com/Brackets-and-Tabs_c_11.html

Thanks for the link ! I forgot about these guys.

[Tango68SS]

You are a mad scientist my friend! Looking killer! :naughty: Not sure what rear you will be going with or how wide a wheel, but I'm sure Frannie will be pissed when you have to buy them! :rolleyes:

[67speedfreak]

Progress has been slow but here are some pics of where I am.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/IMG_0803JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/IMG_0807JPG-1.jpg

[67speedfreak]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/IMG_0809JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/IMG_0806JPG-1.jpg

[ekmxryda]

Hey Brian,
Hows the frame going? Did you get the coil over mounts set up yet?

[67speedfreak]

I know its been awhile. I have been moving my shop and have ben busy as hell.
Here are some updated pics of the project.

I still have some work to do on the chassis but it's back in one piece.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/IMG_0878JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/IMG_0880JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/IMG_0881JPG-1.jpg

Rebuilt the windshield pillars on both sides that were rusted thru.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/IMG_0896JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/IMG_0898JPG-1.jpg

new toe boards installed and torque boxes going in.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/IMG_0907JPG-1.jpg

[67speedfreak]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/IMG_0902JPG-1.jpg

Also repaired the rockers on both sides and filled the trim holes for a smoother look.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/IMG_0906JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/IMG_0904JPG-1.jpg

[ekmxryda]

Hey Brian, Lookin good, nice to see some progress pics!
Before you finish all the welding on the frame grab some of these UMI Lower Control Arm Relocation Brackets and weld them in too.
They would save you some time if you didn't feel like making your own. Your probably a little scattered after moving shops, hope you kept all the parts organized. I keep making trips out to my Mom and Dad's to bring home boxes of parts for my GTO that I took off almost 30 years ago (scary)!

http://www.jegs.com/i/UMI-Performance/236/4012-B/10002/-1?parentProductId=2971021

[Nicks67GTO]

Impressive work! Awesome idea on the frame rails. Questions. Is it going to affect the size of the lower RCA or mess with geometry since you moved the whole framerail and subsequently the mounting point for the RCA, inward by 2"?

[67speedfreak]

Impressive work! Awesome idea on the frame rails. Questions. Is it going to affect the size of the lower RCA or mess with geometry since you moved the whole framerail and subsequently the mounting point for the RCA, inward by 2"?

I will be building a new rear with custom lower control arm brackets that will be moved inboard. I will also be adding custom coil over mounts.
Thanks

[bonecrrusher]

How hard was it to fit the C6 wheels on there?

[67speedfreak]

Hey Brian, Lookin good, nice to see some progress pics!
Before you finish all the welding on the frame grab some of these UMI Lower Control Arm Relocation Brackets and weld them in too.
They would save you some time if you didn't feel like making your own. Your probably a little scattered after moving shops, hope you kept all the parts organized. I keep making trips out to my Mom and Dad's to bring home boxes of parts for my GTO that I took off almost 30 years ago (scary)!

http://www.jegs.com/i/UMI-Performance/236/4012-B/10002/-1?parentProductId=2971021

Thanks man.
I am going to build a custom rear with adjustable lower control arm mounts and adjustable coil over mounts.
I think I pretty much know where everything is, lol.

I need to pop over and check out you thread.

[67speedfreak]

Thought I would post an up date.

Floor and trunk floor are in.
I have been repairing the tail panel almost finished.
next we will start on stretching the tubs.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/10/IMG_0987JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/10/IMG_1036JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/10/IMG_1037JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/10/IMG_1039JPG-1.jpg

[ngrybrd]

This is an awesome project. im working on a similar adventure with my 70 gto. its not quite as extensive as yours but you're definitely keeping me motivated and giving me a lot of guidance with this thread. i do have a question though. based on your post #64, with the package tray, and its clearly not installed where you're at now with the project,but thats the main area thats bad on my car. right where the package tray meets the inner quarter to roof structure is almost completely missing, and my roof skin and inner structure is junk, someone must've put something heavy and wet on top of the car at some point, i have a donor roof cut off a lemans to take care of that structure and sheet metal, and ive got the deck filler, but after removing the deck filler i see i really need to fix the package tray, between the rot of the sides and the deck lid weatherstripping gutter being totally gone, its easiest to replace it. i found the 70 chevelle one available and was curious how well it would work. do you have more pics of the package tray after to finished the modifications? and did you basically just match that curve to the deck filler for the back window shape? and i cant wait to see your update when you get it back in the car for real. keep up that beautiful work.

also, i love how you just moved the frame rails for minitubbing. that was pretty clever.

[ngrybrd]

Edit: haha woops, sorry somehow i missed post 41. i knew someone had to ask so i reread everything. you can disregard this unless you can to expand on anything

ive got another question, i was going through your website photos of this build, ( still astounding) anyways you seem to have a great progression of your steps. it looks like you wire wheel or grind the spot you are going to work on,replace the panel, weld it, grind it beautifully smooth making those welds disappear. the area is then in clean shiny bare steel. then when you see that repair again its black and looks better than the factory. what do you coat the raw steel with? do you simply prime and paint it black? or is it black epoxy primer? or maybe its some sort of a rust inhibitor sprayed on so you can prime and paint later when all of the repairs are finished? could you give us some insight on that?

also how do you protect the steal between layer of a repair, that would other wise be bare metal and potentially rust in the future? do you use a weld through primer or cold galvanizing type of thing?

[67speedfreak]

Edit: haha woops, sorry somehow i missed post 41. i knew someone had to ask so i reread everything. you can disregard this unless you can to expand on anything

ive got another question, i was going through your website photos of this build, ( still astounding) anyways you seem to have a great progression of your steps. it looks like you wire wheel or grind the spot you are going to work on,replace the panel, weld it, grind it beautifully smooth making those welds disappear. the area is then in clean shiny bare steel. then when you see that repair again its black and looks better than the factory. what do you coat the raw steel with? do you simply prime and paint it black? or is it black epoxy primer? or maybe its some sort of a rust inhibitor sprayed on so you can prime and paint later when all of the repairs are finished? could you give us some insight on that?

also how do you protect the steal between layer of a repair, that would other wise be bare metal and potentially rust in the future? do you use a weld through primer or cold galvanizing type of thing?

I coat all bare metal with epoxy primer (Black) except the weld joints ,I use weld thru primer.

Thanks

[67speedfreak]

Here are a couple updated pics.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/11/IMG_1141JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/11/IMG_1142JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/11/IMG_1140JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/11/IMG_1133JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/11/IMG_1138JPG-1.jpg

[67speedfreak]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/11/IMG_1137JPG-1.jpg

[ngrybrd]

Awesome work, i just ordered my chevelle package tray and will follow your guidance to make it work for my gto. i have a few questions about your frame. i saw you moved it in stages? basically just from in front of lower control arms mounts to just behind the rear wheel first, but then you ended up moving in the rear frame rails too? is this enough to need a narrower gas tank? also, whats your exhaust and drive shaft plan with the square stock going all the way across, blocking access to the back? or is the just temporary? and lastly, whats the tire sizes and backspace/offset on those corvette rims, that stance and tire combo is absolutely perfect. i cant wait to see how that looks with the body mounted.

[ekmxryda]

Any progress picts?!

[67speedfreak]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[Motown 454]

Nice work Brian, I just went through the whole thread, I love to see what you guys do.

[67speedfreak]

Couple pics of the trunk floor mods.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Metal finishing the tail pan

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[67speedfreak]

Modifying 68 drop offs to fit the 69.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[67speedfreak]

Current pictures of the project.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[67speedfreak]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[Shawn01754]

You got all that work done for $1500? That's a great deal.
Just Kidding. Does the penny anty matter when the pot gets so large you go all in? Lol

[FRENCHBLUE72]

Looks like a car again

[GTOJason]

What the heck happened to his gto and his website????

[Bad Bowtie]

According to his profile he hasn't been on since around Mar. 2017. Brian does some really nice work I've been to his shop a few times but is was a few years ago and bought his front air dam and kick panels. Hope he is still around I need another set of kick panels soon.
BB

[Vimes]

What the heck happened to his gto and his website????

Your Google-Fu is no match for my Duck Style, honorable opponent!

Decided to look because this was interesting. Agent Orange posted earlier is right up top. I also found the Goat, but it doesn't look like it's moved since the last update.

http://www.screaminperformance.com/index.htm
http://www.screaminperformance.com/gallery/Current%20Projects/69%20GTO/index.html