66 Chevelle LSA/6L90E Conversion [Archive]

kwhizz

09-15-2013, 06:25 AM

So......Getting Bored and after selling off a few cars it's time to start another project.....I bought a just restored 66 SS 396 Marina Blue Chevelle Factory A/C car.........It's a decent resto but not perfect by any means.......so....the plans are to do the Brake, Suspension, and wheel and tire thingy to get that Pro Touring look ......and the car will never see a cone course....so...it will be a driver and Power Tour car.........Now for the Interesting stuff..........It's gonna get a 2013 Camaro ZL1/LSA 4L90E drivetrain........The factory A/C will be replaced with a aftermarket system from vintage air and the stock interior will be retained..........I know I'm going to have to cut out the trans tunnel and raise it to fit the trans....the end goal is to keep the stock console and shifter for the stock appearance.........Here are some starting pic's of the car......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps6ad63732-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zpsa5354a21-1.jpg

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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zpse05e6859-1.jpg

And here's the engine........It's only got 2100 miles on it

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps7603edcc-1.jpg

Stay tuned....

Ken

kwhizz

09-15-2013, 06:47 AM

I've been ordering parts and they are starting to show up..........Complete RideTech suspension (Coil overs all around)......Holley Oil Pan.........Aluminum Radiator........Wilwood Brakes....Vintage Air system........and a Rick's vaporworx tank........so far.......When I bought the engine I also got the Intercooler, Pump, Harnesses, Fuel Pump system, Gas Pedal...ECM.............I already sent all the electrical stuff to Speartech for the mod's........ Here are some more Pic's....

All the harnesses going off to Speartech

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zpsc2a123bd-1.jpg

The Engine less all the wiring....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps1a2c647e-1.jpg

Parts in the garage......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps059bd82f-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps7bc62b5d-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps3f7a0b7a-1.jpg

Ken

Thenovaguy

09-15-2013, 10:04 AM

Cool build! Subscribed.... I just picked up a 66 chevelle myself so I will be living vicariously through your build till I can collect all the parts for a LS swap of my own. I'm looking forward to this thread....

T.J.

bmbrzmn101

09-15-2013, 10:57 AM

Welcome, and I am also looking forward to updates.

Chris

andrewb70

09-15-2013, 12:11 PM

Welcome to the forum. A few days ago I spend several hours reading your Impala build thread. Great job on that car!!!

I am looking forward to seeing what you have in mind for the Chevelle build.

One thing you may want to consider is the Holley pan. The one you used on the Impala won't work as well in a Chevelle. Holley just released a new pan, that will fit A-bodies much better than their old pan. Food for thought...

Here is the new Holley pan:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/pan_zpsf905a687-1.jpg

Also, if the car will be lowered, you will want to pay very close attention to the driveline angles. You may end up having to raise the whole driveshaft tunnel in order to bring up the back of the transmission higher. Otherwise, the operating of the front u-joint will be excessive and cause high speed vibration problems.

Andrew

kwhizz

09-16-2013, 04:12 AM

kwhizz

09-16-2013, 04:20 AM

Andrew.........Do you have a Holley pan number...........I looked and they only show the 302-1 pan that I already have.......and a source???

Thanks

Ken

kwhizz

09-16-2013, 07:05 AM

Just got off the phone with the Holley guy's....The pan you have is a prototype and won't be available for some time yet.........Darn!!!........LOL........

Ken

andrewb70

09-16-2013, 08:55 AM

Just got off the phone with the Holley guy's....The pan you have is a prototype and won't be available for some time yet.........Darn!!!........LOL........

Ken

Ken,

I was afraid of that. They showed that pan at the Holley LS Fest, but I didn't really discuss any availability dates.

Your second best option, in my opinion, is to use the Champion/AutoKraft pan and modify it enough to clear the inner tie rod ends. You'll want to keep the engine as low as possible in the frame, to make the driveline angles more favorable.

Andrew

kwhizz

09-16-2013, 02:04 PM

kwhizz

09-16-2013, 02:24 PM

I received more parts today......since the new Camaros have Electric Power Steering, I ordered a Kwik Performance raised alternator bracket assy along with their Power Steering Pump integrated into the brackets.....I also ordered a complete wire harness kit from American Autowire......The existing fuse panel in the car is showing it's age and is pretty much toast.....So....we are going to rewire the whole car.....The A/C compressor is a slight problem as with the blower belt tensioner taking up the area that would allow the raising of it.....so .......I am going to have to keep it down low and make my own brackets...........The Fun continues.....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps0211a5fe-1.jpg

Getting ready to start...........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps6c62ff2a-1.jpg

andrewb70

09-16-2013, 02:26 PM

Andrew........Since I already have the Holley pan.........What in your opinion would the biggest problem be with the pan.......I already anticipated notching it for tie rod clearance.....anything else???

Thanks again

Ken

Ken,

There is nothing wrong with the Holley pan besides the inner tie rod clearance. I forget that you're more capable than most builders. I only suggested the AutoKraft pan because it is steel and is thus, generally easier to modify. If you can notch the Holley pan, you should be good to go.

I would also consider getting the Touring/Road Race baffle for that pan. It is PN 302-10. It will offer just a little more protection against uncovering the pick-up in cornering situations.

Andrew

kwhizz

09-16-2013, 03:24 PM

Super.............

Thanks

Ken

kwhizz

09-18-2013, 02:51 PM

It was hard to take a wrench to the first bolt to take this car apart.......But........Got a little bite into it today and the ball is now rolling...........Hope to have the LSA in place by the end of next week......Pic's to follow as things happen

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps2ab98574-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zpsdaa747f5-1.jpg

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The Wilwood Brake system will be here early next week and a Ricks Vaporworx tank is also on the way.....

Ken

Steve Chryssos

09-18-2013, 03:00 PM

I sure do love a blue on blue 66. Congrats.

dhutton

09-18-2013, 03:34 PM

Ken,

There is nothing wrong with the Holley pan besides the inner tie rod clearance. I forget that you're more capable than most builders. I only suggested the AutoKraft pan because it is steel and is thus, generally easier to modify. If you can notch the Holley pan, you should be good to go.

I would also consider getting the Touring/Road Race baffle for that pan. It is PN 302-10. It will offer just a little more protection against uncovering the pick-up in cornering situations.

Andrew

The Mast pan might be a good option. Low height at the front.

Vintage Air also has some brackets that allow you to mount the Sanden compressor down low in the stock position. They have an F body version and a Corvette version. Not sure if either will work with the LSA.

dontlifttoshift

09-18-2013, 05:32 PM

VinAir's bracket will not work with the LSA.

andrewb70

09-19-2013, 07:39 AM

Hey Ken...

On another note, look what I found!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1966-Impala-SS-396-survivor-car-22k-miles-perfect-original-stored-since-1970-/171120179896?pt=US_Cars_Trucks&hash=item27d78ebab8#ht_500wt_1182

Another "Nu Yawk survivor.."

I saw it and it reminded me of your Impala build.

Andrew

dontlifttoshift

09-19-2013, 08:05 AM

Ha!!! ^^^

kwhizz

09-19-2013, 01:29 PM

Won't have time to work on the car today ....But....The FedEx guy was still working......The re-wiring kit from American Autowire came in, along with a new quick ratio steering box, and a complete Vintage Air system.....Gonna hit it hard this weekend........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps0ab3c1c2-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zpsa12b5eab-1.jpg

Ken

kwhizz

09-23-2013, 02:44 AM

Got the old drivetrain out and we are getting close to starting with the "Fun" part of the rebuild........Gonna find out what fit's.....and what doesn't......Then make it fit.........Everything will be documented here so as to help others in the future.......or.....If anyone has been down this road, feel free to help with any advice.........My biggest concern right now is with the 6L90E trans.........I'm not concerned so much with cutting the tunnel.........But by how much will be sticking down below the crossmember as this thing is huge.......I also did some rough measuring and it seems like the top of the supercharger will be about an inch too high for the hood to close.......But....I'll know more when we get a little further along...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zpse1d5f383-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zpsec06062e-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps2d4e017f-1.jpg

Ken

kwhizz

09-23-2013, 02:44 AM

Got a little more done today............Time to clean and detail the frame and get the new suspension and Brakes installed....then get the engine installed.....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zpsc9bb8e84-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps5aff1e61-1.jpg

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Ken

kwhizz

09-23-2013, 02:49 AM

Duhhhhhhh!!!!!!..............I just noticed I listed the trans as a 4L90E.........Should be a 6L90E.................................

kwhizz

09-23-2013, 03:07 PM

A couple of things happened today.........The original drivetrain is now gone and on it's way to be installed in another Chevelle and to live another day................And.....After looking at the 6L90E trans and measuring everything.....I'm just not comfortable that the trans pan will be high enough for me to drive the car comfortably worrying about that pan hitting something as the car will be a couple of inches lower than stock with the Ridetech Coil-over suspension.....So.......I'm going to buy a built 4l60 trans that will fit without the trans tunnel surgery and pan issues......I need to resolve some issues but John at Speartech has said there wouldn't be any communication issues with the computers .....so....looks like that's the way I'm going to go......(That's today's plan anyway.....LOL)

Got some more boxes today also..........Christmas in September..........Dakota Digital VHX Gauges........and a "Real" set of brakes.......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps66efa790-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps047b0040-1.jpg

Ken

kwhizz

09-23-2013, 05:45 PM

Started to open up the Ridetech boxes to get everything organized and ready for assembly............How did they know these boxes were coming to me.......LOL......Look closely.........Gotta love it!!!!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zpsa39450d4-1.jpg

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Ken

andrewb70

09-24-2013, 06:09 AM

Ken,

It's a shame that you aren't going to make the 6L90 work. By all accounts, they are fantastic transmissions. Are they really that big? I recall a GTO built on by V8TV and they made that transmission work.

Andrew

SShep71

09-24-2013, 07:23 AM

BLACKLIST

09-24-2013, 07:59 AM

awesome 66' love the build. I want to see the brakes on this beast.

85coupe50

09-24-2013, 08:15 AM

I have a friend that is going to do the same LSA/6L90 into a 68 Chevelle. This one is a fine ride!

kwhizz

09-24-2013, 04:40 PM

Made some progress today......First.........I ordered a built 4L70E trans to replace the 6L90E........John from Speartech is going to make the harness mod's to suit the different trans and said it's actually much easier now......... So.......I took the trans off the back of the engine and brought the engine home to meet the car for the first time......LOL.....The new trans will be delivered in a couple of weeks so while waiting I'll get the new suspension on the car......then continue with the engine install.......If anyone needs a 6L90E with 2000 miles , let me know...........Here are some pic's from today.....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps4ed938ea-1.jpg

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Ken

kwhizz

09-24-2013, 04:57 PM

That transmission is MASSIVE, and requires A LOT to make it work and have the proper clearance. HOWEVER! once you get it done it is worth it. There are several A bodys out there running the /90 and the /80 and the guys I have talked to are all really happy about it. The computer controlled valve body and the programability of it is amazing, there are 100s of paramaters that can be changed so the trans shift to match your driving habbits. The size of the trans is the only big thing you have to get over. Trans tunnel surgery is the only way to make it work. Raising your drivetrain to get the pan the proper clearance is the only way to go. If you raise the drivetrain a few inches but still retain the proper drive line angles you will be fine. The pans are really deep but if you get creative you can gain an inch of clearance bu going to a 6L80 pan.

Dont go to a 4l65... look over on LS1tech even the guys over there that have build 65s are having trouble with them. If you decide against the 6L90 go down to a 4L80. The trans hump will need to be cut, but that is a super strong trans even in stock form. If you upgrade the clutch packs to a higher surface area and friction material they can hold a hell of alot of power. Since you are putting the trans behind a LS with a power adder it would be a good idea to go with the 4L80. Just my .02

Since the Chevelle is going to be lowered a couple of inches.....the trans pan issue became pretty important.......I didn't mind cutting the tunnel but in order to get the pan clearance I would have to raise the driveline......now......to do that and keep the engine angle close it got to be a little crazy.......so .....I took the chicken way out and bought a "Built" 4L70E with all the good stuff in it..........now it will slip right in with just a little "Hammer"" clearance and the stock console and shift will remain as stock.........Plus I'm not going to put sticky Monster tires on it I shouldn't have any issues..........(those famous last words).....LOL

kwhizz

09-25-2013, 04:36 PM

LOL......I took the stock steering arms to the shop today for glass beading and painting......got that done and when I got home I installed the upper control arms and started to install the disc brakes and the steering arms.............As soon as I started to install the parts I knew I had a problem as the kit bolts wouldn't go thru the arms..........Hummmm......I read the instructions and ......LOL.......I don't have a drill big enough at home to drill the holes out to 1/2"..........So.....I had to stop for the day and finish then up at the shop tomorrow..........Dam Instructions......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps793e4183-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps0f8bbc0f-1.jpg

Ken

BLACKLIST

09-25-2013, 04:48 PM

nice chevelle project here. suspension parts look great!

kwhizz

09-28-2013, 02:29 PM

Got a little more assembled.......Got the steering linkage installed and the brake caliper mounts.......I'll get the rotors and calipers installed then on to the rear......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zpsebf36539-1.jpg

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SamHatco

09-30-2013, 08:35 AM

Man....Ken you don't mess around when it comes to your cars. What is this, 3rd one in the last 3 yrs? Your wife must be very understanding or she has all the credit cards she needs. LOL good luck with the build. I'm sure it will be just as stellar as the previous two.:twothumbs

Sam

kwhizz

09-30-2013, 09:03 AM

andrewb70

09-30-2013, 10:18 AM

Ken,

What brakes will you be running?

Andrew

kwhizz

09-30-2013, 01:32 PM

Wilwood 13" rotors up front w/ 6 piston calipers.......12" rear with internal Parking brakes....7/8 bore manual master.......Took the rotors today to get them cad plated......should have them back and installed on the front tomorrow......Time to start the rear suspension.....

Ken

kwhizz

09-30-2013, 06:21 PM

Got the front spindle hubs installed......when I opened the box with the rotors I noticed they weren't cad plated.......So I sent them out for plating to keep that rust from showing up later.......I should have them back for installation tomorrow......I also ordered a Posi unit so I decided to wait for that to show up before getting involved in the rear end......so....I jumped into the inside and finished getting all the original A/C removed along with the dash and wiring......I also sent the stock AM radio out for conversion to AM/FM Satelite..............Started mounting the Vintage Air system.......Having Fun!!!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps5c3c4f87-1.jpg

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Nicks67GTO

10-01-2013, 01:04 AM

Got the front spindle hubs installed......when I opened the box with the rotors I noticed they weren't cad plated.......So I sent them out for plating to keep that rust from showing up later.......I should have them back for installation tomorrow......I also ordered a Posi unit so I decided to wait for that to show up before getting involved in the rear end......so....I jumped into the inside and finished getting all the original A/C removed along with the dash and wiring......I also sent the stock AM radio out for conversion to AM/FM Satelite..............Started mounting the Vintage Air system.......Having Fun!!!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps5c3c4f87-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zpsd8112471-1.jpg

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Who do you have doing your AM/FM MP3 radio conversion? Ive been looking at doing one for my GTO but im not sure who to go with?

kwhizz

10-01-2013, 02:48 AM

Who do you have doing your AM/FM MP3 radio conversion? Ive been looking at doing one for my GTO but im not sure who to go with?

Here you go.......Steve has done 5 radio's for me so far.......It's the only way to go!!!

http://www.vintageautoradio.com/

Ken

kwhizz

10-01-2013, 04:38 PM

Lot's of balls up in the air.........waiting for the firewall insulation to show up........and the Rotors were picked up from the plater today.....so we got the front brakes installed......I also got a call from the transmission shop and the 4L70E trans will be delivered tomorrow............so after getting the brakes installed I decided to get the rear end out of the car and take it over to Jimmy Quinn at Chassis Service to get the posi unit installed and get the ring and pinion replaced if needed....seems to have a lot of backlash.......I should get all the Ridetech rear suspension parts in tomorrow and have the engine install going in a day or two........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps047fbfdc-1.jpg

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Ken

rickpaw

10-02-2013, 03:02 AM

Nice build. I enjoyed reading your other 2 builds over at LS1tech.

kwhizz

10-02-2013, 04:04 AM

Nice build. I enjoying reading your other 2 builds over at LS1tech.

I see you are in Houston........The 37 Ford is now in Beaumont.......

Ken

rickpaw

10-02-2013, 05:36 AM

I see you are in Houston........The 37 Ford is now in Beaumont.......

Ken

Cool, hope to see it over at Cruisin the Coast next week.

kwhizz

10-02-2013, 05:03 PM

A couple things showed up today......Posi unit and rear axle assy was taken to Chassis Service for rebuilding.........also my Level 6 4L70E trans and converter showed up also.........ordered new brake lines also..........Gonna be a busy weekend

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zpsd52b8d83-1.jpg

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Nicks67GTO

10-03-2013, 01:28 AM

Here you go.......Steve has done 5 radio's for me so far.......It's the only way to go!!!

http://www.vintageautoradio.com/

Ken

Do you just use this as a head unit then run it to an amp and equalizer or just run it as is? I read through it and it sounds like theres no way to adjust treble, mid and bass?

kwhizz

10-03-2013, 04:16 AM

Do you just use this as a head unit then run it to an amp and equalizer or just run it as is? I read through it and it sounds like theres no way to adjust treble, mid and bass?

I use it just as it is.......The Treble/Base adjustment is in the stock location.......Call Steve with any questions

Ken

kwhizz

10-03-2013, 07:41 PM

Well......I guess I was Lucky that the car didn't have a posi unit in it when I bought it (if it did I probably wouldn't have taken it apart)

.......After getting a posi unit and dropping the rear end off at Chassis Service for installation........... .........I go over there today and I was shown what was going on in the assy...........In disassembly the shaft that has to be removed to get the axles out was marred and scored so bad it to be cut off with a cut off wheel to get it out......also the rear was filled with motor oil rather than heavy weight oil.......and both axles are shot in the bearing area..........so......New Ring and pinion, bearings , and axles are on their way........Darn$$$$$$$

But.....after getting home I got the rear coil-overs installed waiting to get the rear axle assy back next week........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps0993705b-1.jpg

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Ken

BLACKLIST

10-04-2013, 10:22 AM

83223

must be nice to have all that money....

car is looking good.

T.K.

10-04-2013, 10:53 AM

Darn I wish I would have started following this sooner. I have a 4l60e and a couple bucks that I would definitely have traded for that 6l90. Still willing if you want. Cars is coming along well, and FAST! Like it

kwhizz

10-04-2013, 07:47 PM

Got the Dyna-mat installed today.......Got the front sway bar re-installed......and the new fuse panel from American Autowire installed along with all new wiring started........Engine/Trans go's in tomorrow....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zpsc5e46b9d-1.jpg

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Ken

kwhizz

10-06-2013, 04:26 AM

Started out the day with the goal of getting the Holley pan on and getting the engine test fit in the car.........I anticipate having to notch the pan for the steering linkage so I just bolted it on with a couple of bolts........the Camaro also comes with a pretty neat oil cooler, if I have the room I'm going to try and keep that option as with the Holley pan there is a reduced oil capacity and it would be only a good thing..........The cooler uses engine coolant and circulates it and the oil thru the Heat exchanger to cool the oil.....the fitting that feeds the coolant to the unit is on the side of the block and it was going to be in the way of the Dirty Dingo slider mounts......so .....when taking everything off and removing the fitting........the threads "Galled" up and created another issue to be corrected downstream........LOL........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zpsb607bd88-1.jpg

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Ken

kwhizz

10-06-2013, 05:04 AM

So.....Now I'm getting excited.......All the issues are close to being exposed......I go to move the engine into the car and one of my Chinese casters on my Chinese made Engine Lift decide break off at the swivel plate.......I hope the Company that made that extra money by selling me that piece of Chinese "Crap" is happy.......as I am stupid for buying it.......Damm......I'm this close and dead in the water.......LOL..........I end up welding everything back together and continued back on..........My biggest concern was if the Supercharger would fit under the stock hood.......I didn't bolt the trans on at this time as I know I will have to do some hammer clearance and just wanted to deal with the engine issues first.........Since the stock Camaro exhaust manifolds worked out perfectly in the Impala.....I thought I would give them a try here also, But......it seems the mounting flanges are about a 1/4" per side too wide to fit in the frame as installed on the engine.....so I removed them for a future modification.........I dropped the engine right in at this point.....plenty of pan clearance and it appears there is plenty of clearance on top so the hood should clear also.............Feeling pretty good right about now.....The stock Chevelle frame engine mounts extent forward of the crossmember and everything fits.......But.....they get in the way of the oil cooler fitting and take up space needed for my A/C compressor .....(Can't mount the Compressor high because of the Supercharger Belt system).....so......after getting the trans in.....I'll make a new engine mounting system so the mounts are centered on the crossmember ...........Feeling Pretty good right about now!!.....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps29f0ea7a-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps152e9491-1.jpg

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INTMD8

10-06-2013, 07:21 AM

Looking nice! So I guess you are pleased with the sound of the vintage auto radio conversions?

Also, fwiw those stainless exhaust manifolds weld nicely if you wanted to cut and modify.

kwhizz

10-06-2013, 07:44 AM

Looking nice! So I guess you are pleased with the sound of the vintage auto radio conversions?

Also, fwiw those stainless exhaust manifolds weld nicely if you wanted to cut and modify.

The radio is Killer.........as long as you don't want to annoy other people with the Base pounding from 100 feet away.......LOL.........That's the plan with the exhaust manifolds.......Cut and weld..........

Ken

kwhizz

10-06-2013, 11:28 AM

I got the trans installed today (from the bottom) and it ended up that having the Dirty Dingo slide mounts worked out pretty good as I needed a little more clearance in the bellhousing area so I just slid the engine forward about an inch and gained all the room I needed............I also took the stock crossmember and bolted it up to the trans ......Cool.....Just need to drill some new holes in the frame when it hits the sweet spot....LOL......although we are pretty close right now.......I also have plenty of room with the 4L70E trans to shim the trans mount to get the correct drivetrain angle later..........Too Cool!!!........Time for a Nap!!!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps7e1ddd80-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps6d9779f0-1.jpg

andrewb70

10-06-2013, 01:25 PM

Ken,

You're making great progress.

I assume that with the RideTech suspension the car will be lowered a few inches. With the a-bodies, the driveline angles get all out of whack when the cars are lowered. Raising the back of the transmission up as high as possible makes the front operating angles better, but it may not be enough.

As you go along, keep all that in mind (as I am sure you are)...

Andrew

kwhizz

10-06-2013, 03:46 PM

Andrew.......Keep that advice coming.........I look smart by using the experience of others that have been there..........LOL

kwhizz

10-12-2013, 05:12 AM

Still waiting for the rear axle assy to get finished up so I can get the rear suspension finished.......I got all new brake lines installed (exciting).....LOL.........I also bought the Kwik-Performance raised alternator kit that has the LS power steering pump built into it.........when I ordered it and talked to Wayne at Kwik and explained that it was going on a LSA engine assy out of the new Camaro......He explained that there were some issues with the alternator not clearing the Coil-Paks........I said don't worry about it I will deal with it.........So......I get the brackets installed and try to install the alternator........I can see it will hit the coils.....I open the hood on the Impala to see what the difference was and noticed right away that the alternators were different..........The new Camaro unit had a different body and shape........So....Rather try and re-invent the wheel I just bought the same unit that is on the Impala............Problem solved........I also like the way Kwik has incorporated the Power Steering pump into the brackets.........The LSA engine assy I bought didn't use a pump as the Camaro's have Electric Power steering........so....I killed two birds with one stone..........

The next issue that I'm working on is the placement of the engine mounts......The stock Chevelle engine frame mounts extend forward of the front crossmember.......and.....I need that room for my A/C compressor.......so......I'm making a set of adaptor plates for the engine and frame to center the mounts in the middle of the stock crossmember which will move the mounts back about 3 1/4" and give me the room I need.......Should have everything finished next week.........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps250da464-1.jpg

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Ken

andrewb70

10-12-2013, 09:55 AM

Ken,

Great progress. If I was doing this build I would use 4th Gen f-body engine mounts and make custom pedistals that bolt to the frame. Look over Mark Stelows Camaro XV build thread, on lateral-g, for inspiration.

Andrew

kwhizz

10-13-2013, 01:05 PM

The new Alternator showed up.......installed it and everything is good to go.....The old Belt is just a tad short of working (84.24")........gonna get the next size larger and we are good to go.......I also set the core support on and as of right now I have plenty of room........I'm making some brackets to mount the Radiator and A/C Condenser on the engine side and the Intercooler for the Supercharger on the Grille side.....Should work out .....I designed the lower A/C compressor mount today also......so.....by the end of next week all the parts should be falling into place...........I also received the Shiftworks cable assembly to retrofit the stock console shifter for the new trans........the base of the shifter assy had a lot of surface rust on it so it go dunked over night in a bucket of Evap-o-rust..........Great stuff....looks like it was just stamped out yesterday.......Lot's of action next week........the rear axle housing should be back from Powder Coating so Jimmy can put it all back together......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps8442b918-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps88c0f259-1.jpg

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Ken

kwhizz

10-15-2013, 04:11 PM

The Shiftworks conversion kit showed up to change the console shifter over to a cable mechanism with the proper detent plate to match the 4L70 along with the correct neutral start and back-up light switch......Got it in and installed.........I also stopped at Chassis Service and the rear axle assy will be picked up on Thursday..........I'm still waiting for some material to come in to finish the motor mounts.......So.....I had a little time to mess with the A/C compressor mounting......I used a small front drive style compressor to keep from notching the crossmember....It ended up being so simple and the Belt even lines up........having a digital caliper around to use makes everything easy...........I just need to make a simple upper adjuster for the compressor to tension the belt.....Pretty Simple.....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps090316f0-1.jpg

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Ken

kwhizz

10-17-2013, 07:20 PM

I picked up the rear axle assy today from Chassis Service......Powder Coated.....and everything new including axles....Jimmy installed the rear brakes at the same time..........

Saved me some time..........Brought it home and mounted the Ridetech rear Coil-over brackets and just kept going.....got it installed.......Also got the new motor mount engine adaptor plates and frame mounts finished......the adaptor plates worked perfect.....but ....I have to modify the frame mounts to fit the rubber mounts.....I should of had one at the shop to check what I was making........LOL.......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps159dc025-1.jpg

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Ken

BLACKLIST

10-17-2013, 08:41 PM

love this chevelle build.

kwhizz

10-18-2013, 05:25 PM

Got the new motor mounts finished and installed today.........As you can see in the first picture the Dirty Dingo slider mounts on the stock frame stands were up to the front of the engine.........I needed that room on the passenger side for the A/C compressor......so....the slider adaptors and the frame mounts had to go............in the following pictures you can see the new adaptor plates and frame mounts I made to shift the mount position to the center of the crossmember to give me the room for the compressor.........I made a couple of simple mounts and a RH/LH heim end tensioner to get the stock belt tight.......I also made some new brake lines at the master cylinder with the coil in them for body/Chassis flex (thanks Rick).......Getting ready to pull the engine out for the last time for a couple of loose ends then it go's in to stay.....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps4a07fc3c-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps6e9ce5b1-1.jpg

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Ken

kwhizz

10-19-2013, 12:42 PM

Got the Brake lines finished up today and bled the brakes also......Didn't do too bad.....had about 13 brake line connections and only had 12 leaks..........Another thing off the list....

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Ken

kwhizz

10-23-2013, 09:19 PM

Well.........It seems that me and the rear brake God have some issues......Complete Wilwood system including Master Cylinder.......I bench bleed the master and had to "Work" it to get the rear system bubble free.........the front cleared up with a couple of pumps.........So.....everything installed (all new brake lines)and gravity bled till I got some help to finish the job........Bled the fronts and when opening the bleeder valve it was like a water fountain and the pedal went to the floor as it should.......Great!!......go to do the rears and I would get a couple of drops and the pedal stayed right where it was......Hummm!!!.........either side didn't make a difference.........Hummmm!!!............So....I'm thinking maybe the adjustable proportioning valve is the issue......so I crank it in to give it maximum flow........go to bleed them again......same thing ......a couple drops of fluid without any pedal drop.......So......I call Wilwood and talk to one of the tech guys.........After conversation with them I learned that even with the proportioning valve at full flow.....it only allows 57% of volume thru......so......Today I decided to remove the prop valve..........while I was making a new brake line I decided to do the bench bleed again.....after removing the brake line I put my thumb over the port and worked the pedal thru the steering column hole.....I got some pressure but not enough to blow my thumb off the port......Hummm!!!.......So.....I finish up and install the new line and again....in bleeding the rear I just get a couple of drops with no pedal drop...............Am I missing something???.......It would seem to me that the M/C even though new could be bad....

On another note.....I ordered the wheels today...........and tomorrow I should receive the balance of my Dakota Digital order so I can continue on with the wiring.........I also got all the belts installed and tensioned correctly.........And.....In checking out the pan clearance with the steering arms......It seems I not going to have any clearance issues......(But...the suspension is still unloaded).......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps6d68cdc1-1.jpg

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kwhizz

10-24-2013, 04:43 AM

Here's the wheels I ordered.........Grey centers and brushed rims..........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/wheel0190_sml-1.jpg

andrewb70

10-24-2013, 06:04 AM

Nice progress Ken.

What bore size MC are you using?

Andrew

dontlifttoshift

10-24-2013, 06:12 AM

Ken, check your pushrod adjustment at the master cylinder. You need some freeplay there.

The Wilwood proportioning valve, it does not cut volume at all.

kwhizz

10-24-2013, 08:31 AM

Nice progress Ken.

What bore size MC are you using?

Andrew

7/8" bore.............

kwhizz

10-24-2013, 08:32 AM

Ken, check your pushrod adjustment at the master cylinder. You need some freeplay there.

The Wilwood proportioning valve, it does not cut volume at all.

Donny........I have adjusted that rod back and forth .....No Difference

andrewb70

10-24-2013, 01:35 PM

7/8" bore.............

If you want a more OEM look for the MC, you might want to look at doing a Dodge Sprint MC. I just installed one in my GTO and really like it.

https://www.pro-touring.com/~andrewb/gtov2/photo204.jpg

Andrew

kwhizz

10-25-2013, 01:49 PM

If you want a more OEM look for the MC, you might want to look at doing a Dodge Sprint MC. I just installed one in my GTO and really like it.

https://www.pro-touring.com/~andrewb/gtov2/photo204.jpg

Andrew

Andrew.......Thanks for the Info!!!................

Ken

kwhizz

10-26-2013, 08:43 AM

Another one of those little things that get stuck in the back of your head that you know will become a problem downstream because it's going too smooth just popped up........Now that I'm going to pull the engine for the last time (Hopefully) and tie up some loose ends......I decided to go back and check the tie rod to oil pan clearance that everyone else has "Issues" with....I didn't have any ......I had a slight contact in one direction but plenty of clearance when turning the other direction.....so....I noticed the center drag link wasn't centered with the engine and I thought I could get away with adjusting the tie rod ends to get everything centered and have clearance...........so.......I check everything again today and notice that the rotors didn't look like they were turning far enough.......so I start thinking about the turning radius not being sharp enough which would then shorten the drag link travel from side to side..........So.....I check to see where the steering arm stops contact the lower control arm..........Hummm!!.......I measure the Ridetech contact point and it's approx. 2 1/4" from the stop surface to the center of the ball joint..........I get out my stock lower arm and measure it at 1 1/2" ....Hummmmm!!!!.......I'll call Ridetech on Monday.....Better to deal with it now than after the engine is plugged in and all the accessories are on...........Maybe I'm making a mountain out of a molehill again...........

andrewb70

10-26-2013, 12:18 PM

Ken,

I bet that once you figure out what's going on with your steering linkage, the tie rods will probably make contact on both sides. The question will be whether you care enough to fix it or not. Mine hit, but I just don't care. I can still make a U-turn on a fairly tight street, so why bother?

Andrew

kwhizz

10-26-2013, 12:54 PM

What got me thinking about this were some reproduction steering arms I seen is a catalog that had the stop section missing......It seems like that's what I'm gonna have to do to get the full movement.........

Ken

kwhizz

10-28-2013, 04:43 PM

Well.......The day started out with me calling Ridetech and asking about the steering stops hitting way before the stock position and this was taking away from the turn radius of the car (again.....from the ball joint C/L to the stop surface on the lower control arm........Stock GM is 1 1/2".........Ridetech 2 1/4 inches.........)I sent pictures as requested and haven't heard anything since............I need to get this resolved so I can modify the pan for drag link clearance if req'd.........

The next issue was the trans cross member.........It seems that when the previous owners added the Turbo 400 trans they did the Hillbilly cut and weld to make it fit......so after looking and figuring out what to do with it.......I decided to make it bolt into the stock frame location and holes......and it ended up that the rubber trans mount ended up right in the middle of the crossmember...........so we made a new detail and cut and welded it together.....brought it home and it fell into place........then..........the new Wilwood Master cylinder showed up.....I knew the old one had some issues ( cause I are Smart)........opened up the new one , Bench bled it for a half hour .........not a hint of air and it seemed this one has more flow to the rear chamber.....so.....I knew this was gonna be easy..........Stick it on the car , bleed the fronts....no problem.......go to do the rear.........Same thing........no pedal drop while bleeding and just a few drops of fluid out of the bleeder and No clamping pressure at all on the rear rotors.........Darn!!!..........Time to start breaking the new lines apart and look for a restriction somewhere...........(a smart person would have probably done that B4 buying a new Master).......I also got the new Holley Pan Baffle assy that was recommended.......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zpsc148fb8a-1.jpg

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kwhizz

10-28-2013, 05:04 PM

I also changed my mind on the wheels I ordered.......Final Pick.....LOL

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/wheel0584_lrg-1.jpg

dontlifttoshift

10-29-2013, 04:44 AM

Ken, bleed the rears first.

LowNfast

10-29-2013, 09:18 AM

My guess is the rubber hose from the frame to the rear axle is restricted... just went thru the same thing on a buddy's el camino.

kwhizz

10-29-2013, 09:19 AM

Ken, bleed the rears first.

Duhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!

Why didn't I think of that.....LOL

Thanks Donnie!!!

kwhizz

10-29-2013, 04:51 PM

Two steps forward today........So......While waiting for my Princess to come home to help with Bleeding the brakes......I decided to wrap up another loose end.......I bought an American Autowire custom wire kit and needed to get in the trunk and get the rear harness in......along with the Dakota Digital LED tail lights.......Got everything installed and hooked up......the back of the car is now finished.......Checked on the Rick's Vaporworx Stainless tank and it is supposed to be shipping this week.......Now........Getting back to the brake issue.......

I was taking the easy way out and bled the fronts first as I could do that somewhat easily as the steering column is still out so I could reach thru the firewall and work the brake pedal to get at least a partial pedal by doing the drivers side first....Absolutely wrong ....but by convienence I did it that way......So......I was told to do the rears first......Duhhhh!!!!........So....I removed the front brake line and installed the bench bleeder in the front chamber....when she got home we started bleeding the rears...........Nothing.....no pedal.....just a few drops of fluid...........Darn!!!............after 10 minutes of nothing happening......I decided to change brake lines around and hook the rear line to the front port and moved the bench bleeder stuff to the rear port........Started bleeding the rears using the front and it looked like a drinking fountain out of the rear calipers......so....the rear brakes lines were O.K...........switched the lines back to normal and I now have front and rear brakes.........Bingo!!!...........I'm not even gonna try and figure it out.........Still waiting to hear from Ridetech to see if their parts increased the turn radius so I can get the oil pan clearance issues resolved.......I'll call them again tomorrow.....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zpsbadac28a-1.jpg

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Ken

kwhizz

10-30-2013, 01:58 PM

Now that the stupid Brake issues are gone......I took the day today and got all the Disc Brake emergency brake cables integrated into the system and it's all finished up and working perfectly........The wildwood expanding internal brakes built into the rotors are ......Lets just say a lot "Better" than the Seville rears used on the last couple swaps......Great job Wilwood!!!!...........I also started getting the console wiring made and installed .......doubled checked the Neutral safety switch and the back up light switch and everything works where and when it's supposed to......I also got the info on the turning radius of the Ridetech suspension.........It is a slightly larger turn radius than stock but they said not to worry about it.........So.......I'm not gonna worry......LOL........Time for a Nap!!!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zpsa8dbcd67-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/null_zps274c9eea-1.jpg

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Ken

kwhizz

11-03-2013, 06:45 AM

Started the weekend off by starting to re-install the proportioning valve back into the brake system........LOL....My K-D Taiwan built flaring tool ended up being non-useable.......I should have bought one of those good ones for $200, but I thought that this $80 one would be able to make maybe at least 20 flares.........LOL........Wrong.........Advise to anyone doing this stuff......Don't buy any of this foreign "JUNK"...........

The next thing I had to deal with was after buying and installing the "Shiftworks" cable conversion kit for the console shifter.......Everything was fine until I installed the cable to the transmission........It seems the supplied cable was a little too short and didn't have enough length to allow for the cable's bend radius......the cable came right thru the floor and had to be bent straight down to the mounting bracket and bent again to fit the trans mount........So....I ended up having a Lokar cable laying around and after installing it.....everything was smooth......I just need to make some clevis adaptors to get everything to mate together...........

The Rick's tank showed up and I picked it up with the Impala (the only car around with a trunk big enough to fit).......got it home and "Wow".......what a quality piece of work......Great Job Rick's........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/11/null_zps36dbfad5-1.jpg

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kwhizz

11-10-2013, 10:55 AM

So.....I think one of the mysteries of the world was solved today.......Remember.....this is a just restored car when I bought it.....and......when I got it home I wanted to drive the car as it was for a while before taking it apart.......But...I found out the tail light circuit had some issues and would pop a fuse every time.......(no tail lights or Brake lights).......I unplugged everything to the back of the car and the fuse still popped........Hummm!!!.......I removed the fuse panel as it seemed that was all that was left......I found some issues on the back of the panel and straightened them out and thought I had everything fixed.....Put it back together and popped another fuse........That's when I decided to take the car apart and rewire the entire car.........

So....After getting the console wiring completed today I decided to re-install the console and check everything out.....while doing that I decided to just add power to the repro console clock just to make sure it worked..........I have a little dry cell 12v battery and added a couple of jumper wires for power........hit the terminals and "Zap!!!"...........checked it out again and "Zap!!!" again...........Hummmm!!!!.......Dead Short!!!........looked closer at the terminals and noticed that the Insulator washer was on top of the screwed down terminal rather than between the terminal and the case creating a dead short........Humm!!!.......Somebody in China wasn't told how to assemble the unit correctly........swapped the parts around and everything works correctly.........so ....the power feed for the console must be wired into the tail light circuit and now it seems the Clock was the problem all along..........Long winded story but maybe it will help somebody else with a similar issue downstream..........Heres a picture of the terminal after correction......still kinda hard to see and a Mickey Mouse way of getting the power thru the case....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/11/null_zps7d8a308d-1.jpg

kwhizz

11-11-2013, 03:14 PM

Since I changed the shift cable assy on the trans.......I didn't like the way the mounting bracket presented the cable to the trans shift arm........so....I made a new bracket today and installed it when I got home.......Everything is now more in line and it shifts perfectly......I also got my kick panel speakers in from Custom Autosound......got them painted and noticed that the Parking Brake pedal nad the Speaker were fighting for the same space.......so......cut and rewelded the pedal over 1 1/4" and solved that issue.......another couple things crossed off the list.......

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Ken

andrewb70

11-12-2013, 08:38 AM

Great progress Ken.

I wish I would have done the same thing with my e-brake pedal. I simply eliminated it and it's a bit of a pain not having a parking brake, especially with my manual transmission.

Andrew

kwhizz

11-12-2013, 07:29 PM

Got a couple of issues ironed out today......#1 was getting the oil pan/steering clearance issue resolved.......Now.....almost everyone with a Chevelle / A body LS swap has steering rod end/ oil pan clearance issues where some notching of the pan is required.........After getting the weight of the car on the front control arms today........I then started measuring everything with a load on the suspension.........what I had was a clearance issue turning to the left.....but turning to the right I had plenty of room between the rod end and the oil pan after hitting the steering stops.......so .....after checking every thing out I noticed that the center drag link was not centered to the engine.......after measuring everything six times......I went ahead and centered the drag link , then adjusted the steering rod ends to get everything balanced back out.....I now had clearance in both directions between the rod ends and the oil pan when at the travel limit in both directions..........Got Lucky......the engine must sit just high enough for things to work........

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The next problem that needed to be resolved required the engine to be removed for the fix...... when I removed the original Camaro oil pan that had the factory engine coolant heat exchanger for cooling the engine oil........there was a fitting that fed the coolant out of the block to the cooler........when I removed that fitting , the sealant that the factory used ended up galling the thread while unscrewing the aluminum fitting........so ......the threads were screwed up in the block and needed to be repaired so I could screw in and seal the opening with a new fitting that I will make at the shop..........So......In checking the threads it ended up that GM uses a non standard thread.........M28x1.25 pitch...........you can get a 1.0 or a 1.5 mm pitch but not a 1.25.........so.....I had no choice other than to have a tap made by a specialty Tap manufacturer..........Now....Because the threads were galled in the block and didn't want to take a chance of the tap going in on a angle and making things worse.....I made a sleeve that was a slip fit for the tap so I could hold the sleeve on the sealing face of the hole ......this allowed me to keep the tap square ...............Held it in place and started tapping and I got Lucky as it picked up the existing threads and cleaned them out perfectly.......Cool.......I'll make a new fitting tomorrow and get the engine in for the last time ( I hope)........

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Ken

Todd in Vancouver

11-12-2013, 09:49 PM

Really great build and will be a cool ride when done. Nice, clean work you are doing.

SparkyRnD

11-13-2013, 06:14 AM

lots of cool work in a short period. I need to hire you to help with my build! ;)

kwhizz

11-14-2013, 05:34 PM

Got the engine put back in today hopefully for the last time.........had to go and get a new yoke for the driveshaft......measured everything and having the driveshaft made........Everything else bolted up beautifully

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kwhizz

11-17-2013, 01:56 PM

A lot of little stuff happening......Got the Console, Shifter, and all the Electrical hooked up, checked out and installed for the last time......We also got the Dakota Digital oil pressure sending unit installed ...the next issue was with the Vintage Air system........I have to feed the A/C hoses thru the kick panel and out thru the firewall mounted seal off plate.......the fire wall plate needs to be off to feed everything thru........and I needed to get the hose's figured out and get the fittings crimped on .......then I can remove the unit inside the car and hook them up and install the unit for good (Hopefully).........I installed the inner fender wells to get the hose routing all figured out and measured...........I'll go to see Donnie at Frame-up tomorrow and get the hoses finished up and installed..........Then I painted the Core support and the inner wells...........and.......I found out that the stock ZL1 exhaust manifolds aren't going to fit.........So......I ordered some Flowmaster Headers that are supposed to fit............(we'll see)........Also while at SEMA I talked to the Maradyne Fan people about my concerns about having the Radiator, A/C Condensor, and Intercooler all stacked together......he showed me a dual fan set-up with shroud that moves over 3000 CFM......That should be coming in this week also.....Whoosh!!........

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kwhizz

11-18-2013, 07:46 PM

Got the rear A/C lines made and installed today.......Had to take the A/C unit out for the last time and had to feed the lines thru the cowl ......got everything buttoned up and re-installed.......I was going to start installing the front sheetmetal, but then I decided to wait until after I got the headers installed......they should be here early next week..........I also got a call from Steve at Vintage Auto Radio that the stock AM radio is finished with it's solid state AM/FM/Satelite conversion and will be shipped out tomorrow........ http://www.vintageautoradio.com/

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andrewb70

11-18-2013, 07:55 PM

Ken,

Great progress!

Before you put the fender back on, I would go back and silicone the grommets and the hoses. Those grommets will not keep the water out and you will end up with soggy carpet on a rainy day. Ask me how I know….

Andrew

newbaa

11-18-2013, 09:52 PM

Subscribing! This is awesome.

kwhizz

11-19-2013, 05:08 AM

andrewb70

11-19-2013, 06:07 AM

Already done.....Just didn't get a picture.........Ask me how "I" know........LOL

Ken

:cheers:

RJ66

11-19-2013, 04:45 PM

The project is looking great Ken!

Randy

kwhizz

11-19-2013, 05:26 PM

The Fan assembly showed up today..........so.....Time to start dealing with getting the A/C condenser, supercharger intercooler, and radiator figured out and mounted.....also John at Speartech called and the harness is finished and ready to ship.......and......the headers will be here on Friday...........

So.....I originally was going to mount the intercooler on the front side of the core support, then the condenser, then the radiator and fans.......and that got a little complicated......so....I took the Vintage Air brackets and mounted the condenser per their instructions............Hummm!!!!.......then I took the intercooler and placed it in the middle position.......Hummm!!!.......the intercooler is only about an 1 1/2" thick.....Hummm!!...........Perfect.......So...I'l l make some mounting brackets and get everything mounted in that order........Condenser, Intercooler, Radiator.......The fans pull a little over 3000 fpm.........and if the A/C is on I won't be using any boost and vice versa........Maybe not the factory way to do it but that's what I'm gonna do..........Too Simple and there will be plenty of room for everything to fit......

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kwhizz

11-21-2013, 05:48 PM

My K-D brake line Flaring tool that I bought at the time I needed to make some brake lines......didn't make it thru this project......did maybe 15 flares before it died........It's now in brake line flaring tool heaven with all the other Chinese Crap that I tried to save some money on........Never again..........All that Chinese crap just looks like a Tool..........That's all.......Junk!!! .....Junk!!!!!!.......Junk!!!..................

So......I have to rework some of the lines already installed and at SEMA I ended up buying one of the real Flaring Tools.......No more bitching or complaining............LOL

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I also got the intercooler mounted to the core support today and with the supplied Camaro cooler lines I should have enough to piece this system back together........I'll get the Radiator and Fans mounted tomorrow.....

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I also got my new driveshaft today and got it installed........

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Little bit everyday.........The wiring harness and Headers should be here tomorrow.......I also ordered a Vaporworx fuel pump controller system so it will work as a stock ZL1 does without a return line to the tank.......Not using the 6L90E trans made a significant difference in not being able to use the Factory fuel pressure control system.......

rixtrix1

11-22-2013, 04:55 PM

How does that Eastwood flaring tool work out? Does it also do the flange crimps for EFI line quick connects? Bubble metric flares? Looks pretty well built in the catalog. Just got to get the motivation to start reworking my '66 Malibu. Got a garage full of parts( and a lot of other stuff, a LOT!) and I think the car is buried under it somewhere, lol. . I'm thinking of using a 200-4R so I don't have to cut my tunnel, but I really want a TKO600.Thanks for sharing a nice build.

kwhizz

11-22-2013, 06:37 PM

kwhizz

11-22-2013, 06:37 PM

Some good things happened today.................Good stuff.....The wiring harness arrived from Speartech......and....as usual ....John did a beautiful job......Plug and Play.......Then the headers showed up.......got one side installed before it got to be Nap time......The headers are full length Flowmasters and I got the passenger side in with just a few minor issues....I'll work on the Drivers side tomorrow.........

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On the downside.......The Griffin Radiator I ordered (it was originally ordered to replace the unit in my 66 Impala LS powered car) was of a stock radiator hose configuration which worked in the Impala.........But......after getting the radiator roughly located and positioned in the car for the first time.......It was obvious that the angled air inlet of the LSA engine and the upper hose were fighting for the same space.........Darn!!!..........So I ordered another Radiator from Griffin.......except this one is designed for the LS with both hose fittings on the passenger side and is of a crossflow design...........Oh well......Back to plan "A" and it will go in the Impala and the new one for the Chevelle......

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Ken

kwhizz

11-24-2013, 05:59 AM

I got the driver side Flowmaster header installed.........It wasn't as simple as the passenger side........Seems Flowmaster forgot about the lower control arm mounting bracket on the Drivers side.........Had to remove a good sized chunk of the bracket to clear the pipe......structurally is won't matter.....But!!!.......for what they charge for them , they should fit without any mod's.......and .....my engine is about 3/8 higher than using stock adaptor plates.......So.....it would have been much worse with the header if the engine was lower.......I also have to rework the trans crossmember as the collectors run right into it.........

On the good side........installing the Speartech harness on the engine took about 5 minutes.......Great Job Speartech.......everything marked and labeled perfectly.........

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Thenovaguy

11-25-2013, 03:59 PM

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I love this build! I see this picture and I get excited for the first turn of the key and it's not even my car, I can't imagine how excited you are. Outstanding work so far...

T.J.

kwhizz

11-25-2013, 04:55 PM

After getting the Headers installed the other day.......another little issue popped up........LOL.......The collectors went right thru the trans crossmember..........Always something...........As long as I had to modify it .....I added some reinforcement plates to the areas welded previously.........It is now in to stay....(I hope).......Also I put the coil pac's back on and realized the factory spark plug boots aren't going to work.....so I ordered some new ones........always something......

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Ken

andrewb70

11-25-2013, 08:31 PM

Ken,

Are you sure that the wall thickness on that pipe is enough? LOL

Andrew

kwhizz

11-27-2013, 04:15 PM

Expect the unexpected..........LOL..........By not being able to use the stock Camaro exhaust manifolds......I had to buy Headers.......The Headers didn't fit as advertised.......so we had to make things fit to the Headers.....then the Headers ran into the trans cross member........fix that........then I go to install the spark plug wires......the Boots hit the tubes.....new spark plug wires.........(two sets.....the first set I ordered didn't fit either)......The MSD wires had a bendable Boot and worked perfectly............

I also ordered a Vaporworx fuel pump control unit....instead of the pump running full speed all the time and having to use a Corvette Filter regulator.......this system monitors the fuel pressure and only feeds enough Voltage to the pump to satisfy the demand that the engine requires......hence.....no return line to the tank......I have been waiting for this unit to show up so I could install the wiring harness to the pump on the tank for installation........so......I also got some 1" dia electrical shrink tubing and installed it on the gas tank straps and then heated them up and shrunk them on.......Pretty Neat .......almost "Spiffy".......LOL..........Got the tank ready to go in but it was time for a Nap..........I'll get the tank in tomorrow after all the kids leave.............Happy Thanksgiving to all!!!!

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andrewb70

11-27-2013, 06:17 PM

Cool stuff. Happy Thanksgiving Ken!

Andrew

130fe

11-27-2013, 08:10 PM

Great idea with the tank straps. Love following your builds!

kwhizz

11-29-2013, 01:00 PM

I finally got the Gas tank installed.........would have been a lot simpler if they would have supplied bolts for the straps that were 1/2" longer........Just couldn't get the nuts started........went and got some longer ones today and 5 minutes later it was in.....I also have the fuel line installed and completed........I also got the drive by wire gas pedal installed.......As long as I have the room while waiting for the new radiator to show up I'm going to get the intercooler pump and lines all run..........need to find a reservoir for the system........

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bonecrrusher

12-02-2013, 03:33 PM

Love the motor and the fuel rail cover on there!

kwhizz

12-02-2013, 03:41 PM

The new radiator showed up today.......Designed for LS engines.....Both hoses on the passenger side, Cross Flow and a fitting for the steam lines welded to the top tank.......Too easy....Got it installed and dug out the fan mounting brackets I made a while back and test fit everything........I love it when a plan finally comes together and works out........Ding!!!.....Ding!!!!!

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kwhizz

12-03-2013, 06:17 PM

Got the fan assy permanently mounted and ready to go.......Heater and intercooler hoses next on the list...... Ended up with 1" of clearance in the tightest spot..........

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renegade6

12-04-2013, 07:18 AM

You can get different dies for them to do 37 degree flares but, they are kind of pricey.

It was worth every penny...........But....It just does brake lines.......

kwhizz

12-04-2013, 06:01 PM

It was getting to the point of having to get the fenders and inner panels in so I could see how much room I had for mounting the Intercooler pump and to finish up the A/c lines.......along with getting the engine wiring in place........So.....I threw some sheet metal at it today......

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kwhizz

12-07-2013, 03:02 PM

Well.......We are getting to the point of making a mess of a decent job so far.........A/C lines.....Power Steering lines and Reservoir......Inter Cooler Pump and lines....... Heater hoses.......Lines all over and no neat way to get there........Oh well........It's a garage built driver and it is what it is.........I'll order heat shrink clamps for all the water lines and get them sealed up....

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kwhizz

12-08-2013, 01:49 PM

I did some digging around on the ZL1 Camaro site and found my engine listed in the Registry.......after digging some more I found some pictures of the car as delivered that were posted by the original owner.............Pretty Neat!!!

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kwhizz

12-12-2013, 05:13 AM

After getting most of the Engine compartment "Stuff" hooked up.......I got the Intercooler system filled and Bled.....So I decided to install the rest of the sheet metal so I can get the ECM and forward wiring system installed.......Starting to look like a car again...........

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andrewb70

12-12-2013, 08:09 AM

Ken,

Have you checked the driveline angles yet? The engine seems to have quite the down angle in the rear. With the lowered rear suspension I suspect your front working angle might not be happy.

Andrew

kwhizz

12-12-2013, 10:11 AM

Yep!!!..........Here we go.......I raised the back of the trans and the front came down enough to cause steering issues........so....I ordered the new Holley pan......Typical....buy everything twice and do it twice.........I should be able to lower the engine in the front with that pan to get it much closer.........Darn!!

Ken

kwhizz

12-14-2013, 04:04 PM

Got all the sheet metal installed and finish bolted in......Got the front Bumper back on and I also got the ECM and Trans Modules installed......Forward Lamp harness is next along the getting the Intercooler pump wired.......Now......I just need to find my Horns......they are here somewhere.......Dammmm!!!

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kwhizz

12-17-2013, 04:50 PM

First off......I would like to thank the person who brought my horns back and put them in the garage on the table in plain view........Thanks........

Now.....I got that mess of wires all cleared up in the front of the car.......I hooked up a temporary power feed and checked out the lights.........They actually worked......LOL........I bought an American Autowire Classic update wiring kit and they have anticipated any combination of options and or Gauge/Engine options......I was intimidated by the amount of wires and circuits in the beginning.....but......after looking at what I really needed to hook up....I started removing wires from the bulkhead .......Example.......with the Speartech LS harness, most everything is taken care of in that harness.....blending it into the system is as simple as a fuel pump lead a couple of grounds and keyed ignition power and Battery........That's about it......The Auto engine harness had a bunch of wires in it.....I ended up using 4 wires.....one for the Solenoid and three for the windshield wiper/ Pump assy.......The forward lamp harness was about as simple....about the only major thing I have left to do is tackle the inside.......That's next.....Hopefully the wheels and tires will show up soon also.......

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kwhizz

12-20-2013, 01:15 PM

I got the inlet air tube assy fabricated and fitted to the car .....Just need to weld it up and make the mounting plate for the mass airflow sensor.........Now it time to get started on the inside wiring...........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/null_zps94276b88-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/null_zps46bd109d-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/null_zps6cc40c36-1.jpg

Ken

kwhizz

12-24-2013, 01:50 PM

Been working on the car every day........I am just about finished with the wiring in the Engine compartment......got the fan relay's installed along with the Battery cables, Dakota digital lines for the relays......fuel system wires all installed for the Vaporworx system.......The pressure Module was just finished up and is in transit....I also have all the Vintage Air wires hooked up........I also have the trans cooler lines fit and installed..........This Voltmeter guy stuff never ends.......But.....I did spin the engine over today.......Getting close.......No pictures of progress because everything looks the same......LOL.....Getting close to tackling that pile of wire on the inside of the car......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/null_zpsdaa8e424-1.jpg

Merry Christmas to All!!

FRENCHBLUE72

12-26-2013, 10:28 AM

Beautiful car to start with im betting she is gonna be fun to drive when its done....

kwhizz

12-27-2013, 05:12 AM

I got the inlet tube welded up and I just need to make and weld in the Mass Air Flow mount fitting..........I also got my Vaporworx fuel pump controller......gonna make a bracket today to get it mounted and get it finish wired up today.......All the wires seem to terminate around the Battery and the one I'm using is both a top post and side post.....makes it a lot easier to tap into for battery power.....the mass of wires look like a mess but when the Battery is in everything falls into place.......Getting Closer....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/null_zps2f318c02-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/null_zps70e0f58e-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/null_zps544e69d0-1.jpg

andrewb70

12-27-2013, 06:29 AM

Ken,

GMPP sells an aluminum MAF bung that can be welded to the tube. I'll see if I can track down the PN.

Andrew

andrewb70

12-27-2013, 06:45 AM

Bingo…

19166574

Andrew

130fe

12-27-2013, 07:25 AM

Ken, what did you use to mount the Dakota Digital modules, ABS plastic?

kwhizz

12-27-2013, 10:45 AM

Bingo…

19166574

Andrew

Thanks........I stopped at Frame-up Wheelworks today and Donnie had one in stock........Saved a lot of work........Thanks

Now.....continue wiring..........LOL

kwhizz

12-27-2013, 10:47 AM

Ken, what did you use to mount the Dakota Digital modules, ABS plastic?

Yes.......When I get to the inside wiring, I'll post a lot more pic's.........

kwhizz

12-27-2013, 01:46 PM

I got the Fuel Pump controller (Vaporworx) all installed and finish wired............It needed to be near the Battery so I made a bracket to mount the module inside the fender right there........worked out pretty good........I was also going to make the mount for the Mass Airflow sensor and after stopping at Frame-up Wheelworks.....Donnie told me that GM has them already made and ready for welding......and he just happened to have one......Lucky!!!!......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/null_zps68d97589-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/null_zps98325297-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/null_zpsf21ec757-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/null_zps4ede1758-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/12/null_zpsb57c9b32-1.jpg

andrewb70

12-27-2013, 04:25 PM

Glad that worked out well for you Ken!

Andrew

bonecrrusher

01-02-2014, 04:15 PM

I like the intake you've setup there.

Wiring sucks - even just removing the stock harness from my C6 is a PITA... LOL.

kwhizz

01-06-2014, 04:42 PM

I got back on the project today and finished the inlet tube with the Mass Airflow sensor mount.....Test fit and ready to go.....I just need to add a fitting for the valve covers venting into the tube.......I'll do that tomorrow and another thing off the list....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/4A6762E2A4454344AF9C41132701E395-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/FF09D4AE12FD4282847B912DA67E143B-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/4A3B0BECB7F8454DAC60724F14F6221C-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/C695BF38386D4AE5B1E6063610002E54-1.jpg

rohrt

01-07-2014, 07:11 AM

awesome project!

andrewb70

01-07-2014, 08:17 AM

Looks good Ken. Do you have 10" of straight pipe in that location? I would have thought that you would have placed the MAF in the long straight section before the TB elbow.

Andrew

kwhizz

01-07-2014, 05:24 PM

I was told that the Air cleaner provides a clean flow pattern for the MAF to read and to install it there.........

kwhizz

01-07-2014, 05:24 PM

Got the air intake tube finished up today........After looking at the way that GM engineered the fitting that connected to the valve cover vents to the inlet tube........It seemed to me it was like a mini chamber so any residual anything would go to the bottom of the vessel......so......I made a mini version out of aluminum for the Vapor to flow thru, I probably made it more complicated than it needed to be ......but.......What's new.....LOL....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/C512355F000946FDA3ADAA91BA187826-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/7C7799B1599D4A469B1F05693A71203C-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/F10C9F16EA9041EFB6F6C98F47A95815-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/63DAC3283B754DB8AAA852691308D10D-1.jpg

kwhizz

01-11-2014, 06:11 PM

Well..........Can't put it off any longer......I bought an American Autowire Classic kit....Nice kit but they provide for every conceivable option and variable......so....I have probably 1/2 the wires that aren't going to be used ,.....so.....I have to sort all that stuff out.....First picture is what I started with this AM............the other pic is later in the day.....should have it pretty much sorted out and neatened up in a couple more hours......,.So far.....everything works like it should........LOL

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/A0528EE4B1F440BD8D9587E183E1E2FF-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/D012C223A451461599864FA602A9CAF4-1.jpg

kwhizz

01-12-2014, 09:46 AM

Making a little progress every day.....I have pretty much all the basic wiring in place and fit.....all the loose wires you see left are mostly for all the Dakota Digital senders and sensors.......Looks like a lot but its only a couple of hours to get everything cut, fit and installed.........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/97084EA171394B4EAD1C596FB8E84A95-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/C05F461190374F52A0AE3C3543F92C54-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/40688B8C5911423DB6E77D8AFED5AE71-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/CA39A341268C41D3A5934E4746D7C909-1.jpg

kwhizz

01-14-2014, 04:46 PM

I have 95% of the wiring completed....Dakota digital senders and modules all hooked up .....I powered up the Vintage Air system and ran it thru it's calibration procedure.......everything worked.......LOL........I just have to finish up wiring up the Radio wiring for the speakers......add the rest of the duct hoses for the A/C and put the dash back in.........I sure wish those wheels would show up..........As it is right now if I put fuel in the tank it should start right up........After the rims get here and I can move the car around ........the last thing is the exhaust system....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/D626F5E0FFD94FF4A889C0E7DDBA9A3A-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/B06BD8D20C8044DBAF9D2AF014527D4E-1.jpg

andrewb70

01-14-2014, 07:06 PM

It will be running soon so you can start working the bugs out and have it ready to go when the snow melts!

Andrew

kwhizz

01-14-2014, 08:53 PM

It will be running soon so you can start working the bugs out and have it ready to go when the snow melts!

Andrew

Yep!!.....Actually.....After the exhaust it's going over to Nickey Chicago for Dyno Tuning and to get all the rough edges taken off by Stefano and his crew!!

kwhizz

01-15-2014, 03:54 PM

Everything was going very smooth today.....got all the radio and speaker wires installed......all the loose ends taken care of.......so......I was getting ready to re-install the Dash........In the American Autowire kit there was a new Ignition switch and a new Head Light Switch.......I was going to use the old switch and keep the stock Headlight Knob and pull stem......But.....After checking it seems the switches were wired differently.......Darn.......The Autowire switch had a turned aluminum knob that I didn't want to use.......so .......I took the stock Stem and slid it into the new switch........Cool.....So....I tried to get the stem out so I could install it in the dash............Need I say any more.........Darn......I've been fighting that release button and stem for a couple hours........I give up........Guess I'll have to find out where to get a similar switch......Break this one apart to get the stem out, and this time I won't install the stem until the dash is installed.........Everything just came to a screeching halt.......But.....It was time for a nap anyway......LOL

kwhizz

01-15-2014, 05:07 PM

Got it.......But my finger is pretty sore from pushing on that dam button........Did I say I hate those darn things....

kwhizz

01-16-2014, 02:15 PM

Making headway..............

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/07B739F9398C4538A6C8BB52D4B1B318-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/6AE7F001A7DA44E894EB1EF7402362BF-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/B1B296A6A31B4AB4B0CC0171DF920DA7-1.jpg

topless

01-16-2014, 10:43 PM

Do you know what kick panels those are?

kwhizz

01-17-2014, 04:44 AM

Custom Autosound

topless

01-17-2014, 07:56 AM

thanks

ETexGTO

01-17-2014, 09:05 AM

Sweet build! Subscribed.

kwhizz

01-17-2014, 02:22 PM

So.....I was programming the Dakota Digital controllers today with the correct senders and everytime I would turn the key on to start the programming....The fuel pump would kick on for a couple of seconds.......I didn't have any fuel in the tank and it was running dry......so....I didn't like that so I went and got some Gas for the tank........and as the pump would go on for those two seconds I smelled some gas.....looked around and found a fitting that wasn't tightened all the way.........Fixed it and thought to myself......Hummm!!!......actually this old beater should actually start ........

Click on the link

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10201200861844214&notif_t=like

Zoomin

01-17-2014, 08:08 PM

kwhizz

01-18-2014, 04:03 AM

Try this one..........

http://s13.photobucket.com/user/kwhizz/media/66%20SS%20Chevelle/IMG_1902.mp4.html

kwhizz

01-18-2014, 04:11 AM

The DD gauges look great! I'm working on a 66 Skylark and it's tough to find stuff for it. This is an odd request - would you mind measuring the dash opening for the instrument portion?

Also, I did a search through your thread and saw that you went with Flowmaster headers. It's kinda hard to tell if you like them or not. What do you think by now - would you use them again?

Thanks!

I'll measure later.........as far as the headers go......everything went sort of smooth except that Flowmaster forgot about the lower control arm frame bracket on the drivers side......had to cut quite a bit of it away for header clearance.......So......I would not use them again....

alocker

01-18-2014, 04:12 AM

Way to go. That first start is always so satisfying.

andrewb70

01-18-2014, 08:17 AM

Try this one..........

http://s13.photobucket.com/user/kwhizz/media/66%20SS%20Chevelle/IMG_1902.mp4.html

You did put oil in it, right? LOL

Sounds awesome. I love how smoothly the LSA idles. Hopefully you put some relatively quiet exhaust on it. No one will ever see it coming.

Andrew

Zoomin

01-18-2014, 09:25 AM

Try this one..........

http://s13.photobucket.com/user/kwhizz/media/66%20SS%20Chevelle/IMG_1902.mp4.html

Sounds awesome!

Congrats on the start.

kwhizz

01-18-2014, 10:53 AM

Getting a lot closer.........Got the Radio all hooked up and installed.......It's the stock AM radio that has been reworked with all solid state insides......AM/FM Stereo and Sirius/XM .......Pretty cool.....The heater/ A/C unit is ready for charging......one problem I had that I knew would be an issue at a later time were the Dome / Console courtesy lights didn't work.....so.....I thought I had something hooked up wrong.......well, today I wanted to get the inside finished up and it was time to deal with that issue.......I had just put some Chinese LED bulbs in those two spots and since they were brand new I never gave it a second thought that the bulbs were no good........LOL.....After checking and replacing the Chinese "Garbage" with regular bulbs everything works just fine.......the only thing that doesn't work out of all the wiring and electrical issues is the console clock bulb..........Got Lucky........Here are some pic's from today.....a long way from a week ago.........The Wheels are finished and are in transit.....so .....we are getting ready for the exhaust system and front end alignment.......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/4D473802CDED42FAA8E5D9A7C60FBAC8-1.jpg

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

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/BB943E213E9742CBB0151E5BE5E598B3_1-1.jpg

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

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

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

Zoomin

01-18-2014, 07:58 PM

Dang that puppy is slck! Very cool project.

Zoomin

01-19-2014, 04:08 PM

Another question...

Did you get the Holley 302-2 pan in yet and get your driveline angles set? I was wondering where that left you with the inner tie rod clearance.

kwhizz

01-19-2014, 04:43 PM

Another question...

Did you get the Holley 302-2 pan in yet and get your driveline angles set? I was wondering where that left you with the inner tie rod clearance.

I have the -2 pan......but......I'm right on the edge of everything working just as it is with the -1 pan.......Waiting to set the pinion angle and I have my fingers crossed that it will work out as is...........If not.....I'll have to pull the engine out again to change everything and lower the front of the engine and use the -2 pan..........I have no tie rod interference as it sits now.......from stop to stop I have about 1/16 clearance between the tie rods and pan...........

kwhizz

01-20-2014, 05:26 PM

Well........Everything was going too smooth, and as usual.......I didn't take the time to understand a simple app that was in my phone (Clinometer) that I was using for checking the driveshaft angle from the trans to the driveshaft at the yoke.......(Andrew told me a couple of times to be concerned about the driveline angle).......so the way I was holding the phone and the readout angle was given I was subtracting one angle from another and there was a 3-4 degree difference.....so I thought I could adjust the pinion angle to bring it in...........So......I was going to do that today as now I was focused and really thought about how I was going to get where I needed to be..........Just when I started I got back under the car to double check...........What I found out was that the readout given by the app was reading a number that was plus and minus off of 90 deg..........I didn't realize that one angle was going past 90 and the reading given should have been added to the first reading.....so.......My angle is actually around 7-8 degrees..........Darn........Time to take it partially apart and add the new Holley -2 pan and lower the front and raise the rear of the Trans...........I was moving along too quick to really think it thru.....But...........I just have to do it correctly......I should have listened to Andrew when he warned me the angle looked a little steep............So........Everyone learn from my "Mistake"............Darn!!!

Zoomin

01-20-2014, 09:05 PM

Hey, if it makes you feel any better I'm getting ready to install pan number 2 myself. I had the angles all looking good, but had forgotten to check one small thing - turning the steering wheel lock to lock. So the tie rod ends hit the pan like everyone says, but for some reason that never hit me it would be a problem when I was doing my research and that's how I got involved in your thread.

I guess I was naive in thinking by this point in time that all the parts and pieces would be settled science by now but there are so many variables, which adapters, headers, pans and all.

I'm curious to find out how similar the size of the drive tunnels are between the Chevelle and Skylark. We'll see if you have any interference when you adjust the angle of the transmission. Even with the -2 pan you might have some conflict with the tie rod ends but not as much as me since your engine mounts are higher than mine.

Keep after it!

alocker

01-21-2014, 03:51 AM

It's only January. I say no mistake, it's a blessing in disguise.

kwhizz

01-21-2014, 03:32 PM

It was a Double "Good" day today........In starting the car and putting the trans in gear .......I had a severe drivetrain vibration......I assumed it was because of the driveline angles being off and the universals fighting each other......so ......Today I raised the trans cross member up a 1/2" and got the angle to about 3-4 degrees....The trans to driveshaft angle looking very good as it was now pretty good.....I had a big smile on my face.....so......I start the car and put it in gear expecting the vibration to be gone......wrong.....It still vibrated like crazy.......WTF!!!........so.....I get underneath the car and turn the driveshaft by hand and I could feel during the rotation that there was a severe tight spot during rotation.......after checking everything out a lot closer........Here's what I found......the rear universal was installed backwards by the driveshaft shop and the bulge in the universal for the grease fitting was hitting against the threaded end of the pinion .....after removing the driveshaft I could see where the bulge has worn into the threaded end by about a 1/16".......WOW!!!...........While the driveshaft was off I got out my little grinder and ground away enough to clear.....Put it back together and it was a smooth as silk.......Darn!!......But it forced me to correct the drivetrain angle that I can now live with..........I'm gonna install a new universal tomorrow with the fitting facing the opposite direction..........Here's a pic after clearancing........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/8B02A7720EC646B2B5AEF39C5A195349-1.jpg

Zoomin

01-21-2014, 05:22 PM

Man, always something. Glad it wasn't a big deal this time.

Jon69RagTop

01-21-2014, 05:27 PM

That's great news Ken

kwhizz

01-25-2014, 03:49 PM

I spent the day today getting a bunch of Radiator hoses cut and fit...........I'm gonna be gone for a couple of weeks and when I get back the wheels and tires will be sitting waiting to be installed.......So.....the list of things that remain to be finished are......get the rear speakers installed......hook up the power wires to the power antenna.......Bleed the brakes one more time.....Get the Exhaust system installed .......and get the front end aligned.........heres a pic of the wheels....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/01/photo1-1.jpeg

Zoomin

01-25-2014, 04:05 PM

Dayumm - Love those wheels! Great choice.

Other than exhaust and alignment, you can be driving that rascal. Just in time for a full Spring.

newbaa

01-25-2014, 08:50 PM

Those wheels will look great on the car!

Bonehead

01-25-2014, 11:49 PM

Been following your thread on Team Chevelle. Looking great! Might have missed it earlier, but what size wheels and BS are those?

kwhizz

01-27-2014, 01:23 PM

17x7 in front and 18x8 rear. As I remember the back spacing is 4 1/4 front and rear. I'll check for sure when I get back home. This is a driver so I didn't wasn't to get too crazy with the rims

kwhizz

02-09-2014, 11:33 AM

We got back from out trip last night and I was out in the garage at 7am this morning...........Just had to get going again....Before leaving I got the radiator hose situation all sorted out .....It ended up I had to cut up two hoses each to get the shape and bends to come out correctly.......while gone I ordered some Gates Shrink clamps and some radiator hose couplers from Jegs.....That was the first thing I did this morning was to get the hoses put together and get the coolant into the system.........No Leaks......Then I finished up getting the O2 sensors installed along with getting all the wires in place....Then I bled the brakes again and I'm still not happy with the pedal......still feels a little spongy......(I hate Brakes)........then I put the wheels and tires on the car and got the car on the ground for the first time.........gonna let it sit for a couple and then get the coil-overs adjusted correctly..........my hands are Dirty and it's time for a Nap!!.......Here are some pic's from today....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/7F91D5D611BA4AE2AD0896F67B44C5A8-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/0EFF12D9A0994F39A3B0C363F4A010D2-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/8A5ECB555B2144F4ACE47C3F8C46A4F7_1-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/178BF8D4D72D44F2A67791878E57FAA2-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/935E2EC0CABE41D4A9CB343E954CF0F6-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/497DE432D1804D5F82641EFF50C3B8CA_1-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/D56D38224C0B4AD8BCA8DF4172CA71DF-1.jpg

Zoomin

02-09-2014, 05:58 PM

You are almost there!

Really love how she sits.

kwhizz

02-11-2014, 04:46 PM

Big Day today...........I drove the car for the first time.........I just moved it from it's stall to the lift in the next stall, but it moved under it's own power.......I moved it to the lift to put on an old set of mufflers so I can drive it to the muffler shop......Then off for a front end alignment.....Then off to Frame-up to get the A/C system checked and charged and Donnie is going to see what he can do to get a solid brake pedal........(Did I mention I hate playing with Brakes)......Anyhow.....here's a picture with the car in it's new location.........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/8E285CCB8DFF49F6BE3FFA9B0D1D1DAF-1.jpg

alocker

02-11-2014, 04:53 PM

Killer stance!

kwhizz

02-14-2014, 01:14 PM

Click on the Pic.....Sorry about the crappy Cell Phone Video

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/th_10911-1.jpg (http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a251/kwhizz/66%20SS%20Chevelle/1091-1.mp4) [/quote]

kwhizz

02-14-2014, 01:27 PM

Here are some more pic's as the assembly moves along..........now I need some dry salt free roads to get the exhaust system and to get the front end aligned.........then like the video said......off to Nickey Chicago for Stefano and Cory to work their tuning magic!!........Also.......until today I never really knew if the hood would close as I knew it was going to be close......whew!!......Dodged another Bullett!!!.........Fits without any interference......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/57B348ABAEDB4E8FB62CDA64D4768079-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/470FFE0325B743EF92E4B9DF06412303-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/36EDBB5C8792447589ACF8B6B6C8C9A4-1.jpg

andrewb70

02-14-2014, 03:14 PM

Ken...

You got yourself a sleeper there!

Andrew

Zoomin

02-14-2014, 07:00 PM

That pretty much filled that engine compartment, didn't it? Looks like it came from the factory like that - you did one heckuva job on that.

How much clearance do you have from the end of the headers to the floor?

kwhizz

02-15-2014, 06:02 PM

About 1" - 1 1/2"

kwhizz

02-17-2014, 04:21 PM

Running out of things to do......I got the loose end wiring all finished up inside the car......I also installed another Dakota Digital module that will feed outside air temp and compass directions to the VHX gauges........and today I made a simple bracket to hold a Catch Can assy to collect oil vapors rather than to feed them back to the Intake and recycle them thru the combustion chambers..........So......The only thing I have left to do is install the speakers in the rear package tray.........Waiting for dry roads to get the alignment and exhaust system completed

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/BD11AD56FDA541AFBA6B94A3117691E1_1-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/B6CD1569E4F84B5FB5AF6779AEA7F73B-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/66499D7570204E87B6CD71B531B9E749-1.jpg

Nicks67GTO

02-18-2014, 03:49 AM

Hey there. Awesome build! What size/brand tires are you running? The rears look like a taller sidewall than you normally see and I really like it.

kwhizz

02-18-2014, 04:34 AM

55 series sidewalls .....Front and Rear........I don't like the low profile sidewall look...........and I still have visions of a couple of guys sitting on the side of the road on the Power Tour a couple of years ago.......with flat tires and smashed rims after hitting a pot hole .......Great way to ruin a day......LOL

kwhizz

02-22-2014, 06:52 PM

I finally got the package tray cut out for the speakers to fit..........It was one of those days........Simple thing....just cut out speaker openings.........LOL.......started at 8am........Get out the little Pneumatic saw (Chinese Made).....started cutting and it kept stopping as soon as it got a little pressure on it.........so.....I decided to go and get some new saw blades with a finer tooth profile...........get the new blades.........go to install one and as soon as I tighten the set screw........the blade cracks into pieces.........try another and the same thing happens.........(The Chinese don't understand Heat Treating or Tempering).....Darn......I dig thru the tool box and find an old one (U.S. made).....put it in the saw and Bingo.....no breakage.....so I start sawing again and then the Chinese piece of crap saw breaks internally..............I get the sawzall out but it's just too big.......Darn.......So......I try my little pneumatic rotary grinder with a carbide Burr in it......Darn......That didn't work either........So.....I drive down to the shop and get my Plasma cutter......get everything arranged and protected and got 1/2 way thru the first cut out and it died on me...........Darn!!......Not a good day so far.......This is supposed to be a non issue and simple..........So.....I go to Menards and buy a new Plasma cutter......get back and 5 minutes later I'm finished......(5 hours and $640 later)..........So......I get the speaker assy's painted to match and get them installed.......Hook up the wires and go to turn on the radio to see how they sound........Hummm!!.....Battery is dead.......WTF..........Hummmm!!!.......everything was fine until I hooked up the existing Chinese made Power Antenna........Humm!!!......I remember that the last time it went up it continued to make a slight sound when it was fully extended..........Check it out.....and it was drawing power when it shouldn't have.........So......I go to Autozone and pick up another Power Antenna.........also Chinese made........go to install it and the way they had it designed with the ferrules and Gaskets there was no way it was going to seal and keep the water out of the trunk...........I ended up taking all the power stuff out and put a manual Antenna on the car........Sheesh!!!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/85022A27E16945CEA7ED20BA0F11F145-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/FA50225C19FD47F58A4E0BFEDBD3899B-1.jpg

Zoomin

02-22-2014, 07:38 PM

Lol, nice to know I have company in that regard!

On a bright note, they look great.

Bonehead

02-22-2014, 11:50 PM

The pretty much sums up my entire day in the garage today. I'm pretending it didn't happen and starting over tomorrow...

andrewb70

02-23-2014, 01:49 PM

Hey Ken...

Do you recall what was your front operating angle?

Andrew

kwhizz

02-23-2014, 03:47 PM

3- 4 degrees...............

andrewb70

02-23-2014, 07:33 PM

3- 4 degrees...............

That's not bad. I am eager to see if you have any high speed vibrations.

Andrew

kwhizz

02-24-2014, 06:08 PM

So......The weather was very cold today.....but it was sunny and the roads were dry.....so.....I took the car out for it's first drive and to get the front end aligned.....I was surprised how well the car drove and steered without any concerns for alignment during assembly.........So.....a couple things happened......I get to the Alignment shop......get the car on the rack....and the alignment adaptors that strap onto the wheels were hitting.......the springs settled down quite a bit during the drive.....I told them I would adjust the coil-overs and get the car a little higher and be back next week..........so....as I was getting close to home I noticed there was a trail of white smoke from under the car........Damm........I was almost home so I coasted into the driveway and it seems a trans cooler line broke or split somewhere in the system.......Damm what a mess.....Finally got it in the garage on the lift......I've had enough of the car for a day or two.......Gonna take a two day nap before I get back to it...LOL

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/FAF54B0F929D47AB948CE612286976DA-1.jpg

Catmanzr

03-01-2014, 08:24 PM

kwhizz

03-02-2014, 08:49 AM

Curious how the brakes feel? I see you have 6 piston wilwoods and manual brakes. I also have 6 pistons but am kicking around going with a power booster.

I have a 67 nova that I put an LSA in. I'm going to be putting a cam in but don't know how that will affect the available vacuum on the LSA. Manual brakes take that out of the equation.

Dan

So far.....I'm not too impressed with the brakes.......But......maybe it's because I did a stupid thing when I put the car together......I didn't know any better and I used rubber fuel line for the trans cooler and every time I've started to drive the car lately.......I blew a hole in the cooler line and got trans fluid sprayed all over.....After talking to people that are a lot smarter than me I found out what I did wrong........I just finished putting the correct lines on and got the rotors and pads cleaned........Just waiting for clean roads to get it out again and seat the pads correctly.....LOL

1989GTA

03-02-2014, 09:52 AM

Which Wilwood brake kit did you put on the car?

31069ss

03-02-2014, 10:19 AM

Which wheels are those and how much did they cost ?

Nicks67GTO

03-03-2014, 01:57 AM

Got any good side profile shots of that car? If you have a chance I would really like a look at the taller profile on the tires.

JAWSS

03-03-2014, 10:33 AM

Gorgeous 66 and and very nice build!! I have been kicking around the idea of the LSA for my 70 Chevelle. This may have pushed me over the edge to pull the trigger. I look forward to hearing more feedback on how this build turned out.

J

kwhizz

03-06-2014, 02:16 PM

A simple issue to pass along for others to not make the same mistake as I did.......I used Fuel line for the transmission cooling lines to the radiator.......after blowing holes in the lines (3 times) and after the last time the car had to be brought home on a Flatbed.....I didn't know really what the Heck was going on.......I called RPM transmissions and after explaining what was going on......he explained that you can't use fuel line for this purpose......It seems the trans fluid attacks and weakens the Rubber used for fuel lines......the trans he built for me has about 300 PSI line pressure when put in reverse and that's why I was having these problems.......It was blowing thru the hose at it weakest point.........So....I already replaced the front section of lines (from the starter forward) with hard lines........and I was going to finish the rest but it seems me and tube benders don't get along.......so after going thru a bunch of hard lines I went and bought some correct trans rubber hose and installed them and everything is now fine........Now maybe I can make it to the alignment shop without the trans line blowing out......LOL.......

On to the last Issue that I had to deal with was setting the pinion angle.....The Ridetech set-up is great .....But.....because of the little extra angle of my engine trans combo when I tried to adjust it using the upper adjustable arms........It just rolled the rear end back into the Coil Overs..........So.....as the lower arms are fixed length and non adjustable.......I talked to the Tech guys at Ridetech (Great Guy's) and what I did was bought threaded Bungs and Rod Ends........So.....we cut off the ends of the lower arms and welded in the new bungs with the adjustable Rod Ends........So.....I figured out the angles and how much shorter the lower arm needed to be and adjusted them and put everything back together.......Bingo........hit it the first time......and when I ordered those parts I also ordered the rear sway bar assy.......so I got everything installed and finished.......Now we just need some dry Salt free roads to get the alignment completed......Get the exhaust system installed.........Get the car to Donnie at Frame-up.......Then off to Stefano at Nickey for the Tune.........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/E0386A300BD445B4BDD0626E1BF96FBB-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/938393B4514443AEA9B25B6CBCE6D2C6-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/E2224A7196C845EAACEE404639E425BD-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/73A05616215A426EB2338F533D667E8B-1.jpg

Ken

alocker

03-06-2014, 03:38 PM

Looking good. What kind of exhaust are you putting on?

kwhizz

03-06-2014, 05:22 PM

Looking good. What kind of exhaust are you putting on?

I'm not a loud car guy......So.....I'm looking for the quietest performance mufflers I can find........Any suggestions???

SamHatco

03-06-2014, 06:14 PM

Check this muffler out Dynomax 17749 muffler. Excellent flow characteristics supposedly doesn't drone and reasonably quiet.

Sam

kwhizz

03-07-2014, 04:33 AM

Check this muffler out Dynomax 17749 muffler. Excellent flow characteristics supposedly doesn't drone and reasonably quiet.

Sam

Thanks............I'll check into it!!

kwhizz

03-11-2014, 03:55 AM

A couple of things........I made it to the alignment shop today.....LOL.....I actually didn't blow up any transmission lines.......I guess when you use the right product for the application .......It works......LOL.....anyhow....The front end is now aligned and set up........I also sent out my stock am radio and had it converted to am/fm stereo /satellite Sirius ready.......got everything in and hooked up with Radio Margaritaville ..............great cruising station...........I also ordered an exhaust kit with all mandrel bends and Dynomax #17749 mufflers.....2 1/2" system.........should be here in a couple of days......Good weekend project......The other thing I'm not too crazy about is the brake system.........It was recommended to go with a 7/8" bore master non power system..........well......I'm not very impressed with the stopping power and may be switching to a Power system in the near future.........anyhow......here are some pic's....Time to call Stefano at Nickey and get the old Beater over there and wake it up......LOL

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/07A0E18B3F724720A9A9FE2E4D075F49-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/4841CF18B98141089D3BDD271CF1A36B-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/CA490E3472FC4CA492EBA216E7A2C1AC-1.jpg

kwhizz

03-12-2014, 04:15 PM

The box of exhaust components showed up today.......Got started today......In the pictures you will see some band clamps.....those are for fitting only........everything will be welded ..........Gonna be a busy weekend and hopefully off to Stefano and Nickey next week......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/EEF217F099D343B7A409BEB40A46BD4E-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/F026D06530E64EF7803E89773626AE2C-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/7E94B6E3998240B3857A1FACBBBAA969-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/2ECFCDAB3B844E47A1075B846655813D_1-1.jpg

kwhizz

03-16-2014, 05:18 AM

I finished the exhaust system and got another Education on Welding.......I finally got the wire feed and voltage dialed in on the last weld........Typical..........But.....In building the other LS powered cars I always seemed to have issues with the "Rappy" sound out the exhaust pipes and ended up changing mufflers a couple times to get away from it..........I think the length of the tail pipes have something to do with it........But.......On this car I bought Dynomax #17749 super turbo mufflers and brought the tail pipes out behind the rear tires........so ....when I started it I didn't know what to expect.........I wanted the quietist performance Muffler I could find...........so.....When I started it........I was very pleasantly surprised at how you could hear the exhaust.....but yet how quiet it was........Perfect!!!........Going down to Stefano at Nickey next week to get the rough edges blended together in the ECM............When I started the build I had the complete ZL1 harness assy........But......because I decided not to use the 6L90E trans we couldn't use the ZL1 harness ........John at Speartech supplied a ECM set up to work with the engine and the 4L70E trans......but....It needed to dialed in to blend everything together......so......Stefano and Cory are going to put the final piece of the puzzle in place.............Then it's going to Frame-Up to get the A/C system charged......83 days till Power Tour.......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/F76BB633C2F24A2A8B2E1458877E688D-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/BB3BB509270E4990A7C7942B692886FC-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/FD5763B0519F48AA801DCB4376CEEC32-1.jpg

1989GTA

03-16-2014, 08:51 AM

Nice work. I am surprised you did not look into an X-pipe or an H-pipe. That will help calm down the noise from the exhaust.

kwhizz

03-16-2014, 11:08 AM

Nice work. I am surprised you did not look into an X-pipe or an H-pipe. That will help calm down the noise from the exhaust.

I can always add a "H" pipe if req'd......Wanted to try it like this first...........Thanks to Samhatco for the Muffler recommendation....

kwhizz

03-16-2014, 11:21 AM

I have gotten a couple of requests to hear the "Beater" run with the exhaust system.....so....here is a short video......as you can see until the engine gets tuned it's running Pig Rich!!!..........Driving down the road you can barely hear the exhaust unlike the Flowmaster that I had on the other cars......These are much better and thanks to Samhatco for the Muffler recommendation.....Click on the Picture for Video

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/th_002-1.jpg (http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a251/kwhizz/66%20SS%20Chevelle/002.mp4)

SamHatco

03-16-2014, 11:28 AM

andrewb70

03-16-2014, 11:40 AM

Ken,

I like my cars fairly quiet as well. My GTO has mufflers that are made by a now defunct company called Straightline Performance. They are huge but I love the mellow note at idle and no droning on the highway, but they have a nice note once you want to get a little silly. Hopefully those turbo mufflers don't hurt performance too much. I am eager to see the tuned RWHP numbers...

Andrew

kwhizz

03-16-2014, 11:52 AM

Andrew...........When are you moving up this way..........Bring some Ribs from the Rendevous with you..........Yum!!!

andrewb70

03-16-2014, 07:24 PM

Andrew...........When are you moving up this way..........Bring some Ribs from the Rendevous with you..........Yum!!!

Ken,

I am actually coming to Oshkosh next weekend to look at some houses and with some luck I should be up there sometime in June. As for BBQ, everyone has their favorite place in Memphis. It's a lot like religion and it just depends which alter you want to worship at...LOL...

With that said, Rendezvous is not my favorite, but many tourists love it because it is conveniently located downtown. My favorite ribs come from The BBQ Shop, which is located on Madison in Midtown, very close to where I live. Rendezvous actually has decent brisket and their lamb ribs are unique.

I am quite certain that I will never get BBQ like that in WI, so I am going to have to learn to make my own...

We definitely have to get together once I am up that way.

Andrew

Soarer

03-17-2014, 08:24 PM

You are an artist, an engineer and an inspiration. Carry on good sir!

kwhizz

03-21-2014, 09:51 AM

The car is on it's way to Nickey Chicago where Stefano and Cory are going to give it some good old Muscle car tuning......They are very busy there so it might be a week before I can post a video of the car on the chassis Dyno.........Gonna get interesting from this point on!!!.........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/C8F55C28A12B4809B9D45AC47E300ABF-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/1B97438238E14B12B343D798270CA207-1.jpg

Ken

kwhizz

03-24-2014, 05:46 PM

Waiting it's turn on the Chassis Dyno at Nickey Chicago......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/N1-1.jpg

Zoomin

03-24-2014, 06:52 PM

Man, that is sweet. Barely a hint of what lurks underneath.

kwhizz

03-29-2014, 05:23 AM

Stefano and Cory at Nickey have been very busy and since I'm not really in any hurry to get the car back,.....they didn't get to it until late in the week.........Cory had to install another Bung in the exhaust system for one of the sensors that is needed for the Dyno Computer.......it would have normally gone in one of the rear O-2 sensors Bungs........Then it finally got on the Chassis Dyno but since it was late on Friday.......Cory didn't get a chance to really dial it in yet.........should be a video early next week...........

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/1969CamaroRSSSIndyPaceCarConvertible073-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/1969CamaroRSSSIndyPaceCarConvertible137-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/1969CamaroRSSSIndyPaceCarConvertible140-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/1969CamaroRSSSIndyPaceCarConvertible141-1.jpg

andrewb70

03-29-2014, 05:02 PM

Ken, you're a tease!!!

Andrew

YancyJohns

03-30-2014, 06:43 AM

Sweet Ride!!

kwhizz

04-01-2014, 04:53 PM

Cory had a nagging issue to deal with in this pieced together system.....When he would start to get into some boost, the Computer would pull Timing out of the engine and kill the Power......Took a while to figure out that it was the Torque Management system that was killing the power........It took a while to figure out how to get in the proper area of the ECM and turn that particular table off..........Got a call from him just before he was leaving for the day and he finally got to make a pull without losing Timing.........Tomorrow seems to be the day everything gets blended together to work as a balanced system.............

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/N1-1.jpg

andrewb70

04-01-2014, 06:13 PM

Should we start a pool for RWHP numbers?

487rwhp

Andrew

CarlC

04-01-2014, 08:21 PM

Too bad the license plate isn't a giveaway for the power numbers.

591 VHP ....as in CTS-"V" engine.

One always needs a goal!

Great work Ken.

kwhizz

04-02-2014, 04:46 PM

Didn't hear anything from Cory today.........But the first quick pull yesterday with the Timing stabilized.........The car made 480 rear wheel horsepower.........So.....I can't wait to see what it will do with everything dialed in..........These engines just amaze me.......this thing idles like Grandma's car........Hope to have a video tomorrow.....

andrewb70

04-02-2014, 05:29 PM

TaylorRyanSS

04-02-2014, 06:02 PM

I am jealous... I am looking to do the same eventually in my Camaro, but with a TR-6060 trans.

kwhizz

04-03-2014, 03:24 AM

Here a Video of a Dyno pull from Nickey Chicago.........Stefano and Cory.....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLruPmRdhzo&feature=em-uploademail

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/04/scan1009-1.jpg

Ken

Gil

04-03-2014, 04:24 AM

Hi Ken,
Your car is awesome dope !
I think my exaust will be like yours & welded in place as I don't have the tools to bend tubes
Very nice dyno results
Gil

andrewb70

04-03-2014, 06:06 AM

Great work Ken!

Love how quiet this car is. I bet people will think that it is a mild SBC car. Should easily run 11s even with 2.0 60' times.

Andrew

wfo guy

04-03-2014, 03:55 PM

I can't wait to here your review after you have put some miles on it. There's many things I'm curious about. Nice build!

Nicks67GTO

04-03-2014, 04:18 PM

Nice!

carguykeith

04-03-2014, 05:24 PM

kwhizz

04-03-2014, 05:35 PM

andrewb70

04-03-2014, 06:17 PM

Wow 550/500 to the wheels with a 100% stock LSA through an automatic!?! I went back and looked and only see headers/ exhaust and a free flowing intake tube, did I miss something else like a pulley change on the charger or a cam swap?

Stock Gen 5 Camaros dyno lower because they use the 6L90E transmission and an IRS. Ken is using a more efficient 4L70E, 12 bolt rear, headers and a free flowing intake. I can easily see all that plus an optimized tune netting 70HP over a stock gen 5 ZL1.

Andrew

carguykeith

04-04-2014, 12:22 AM

That's awesome, wouldn't believe just exhaust and a tune are worth those numbers without seeing it. An LS9 cam, ported snout and 2.54 pulley are worth 100 at the wheels with what you've already done from what I've read. You might push 650whp based on the numbers you're seeing already, just saying...

kwhizz

04-04-2014, 04:09 AM

Stefano had the car delivered to Frame-up Wheelworks in Beach Park, Ill to get the A/C system checked and charged and also Donnie is going to check out the brake system...........Getting close....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/04/D9033B7EF35C477EAFDFA2D831D378B0-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/04/7CFB306770AC40ACB2A87F3F8850D137-1.jpg

kwhizz

04-04-2014, 05:49 PM

Donnie and the guy's at Frame-up knocked the Chevelle out in a day..........The A/C is charged and ready to go........They had to replace one A/C hose that I didn't make correctly and they also replaced the brake pads...........It seem's that after having the rotors plated locally , during the break=in of the pads..........it seems the plating wore off the rotors and embedded itself in the pads and took away the braking power.........after changing the pads you could see all the plating that was embedded in the pads.......Car stops great now!!!

So......After picking the car up from Frame-Up today.....this was the first time I have driven the car after being dialed in by Nickey............LOL..........Un-Freak'in believeable..........This engine is insane as to the power available.........All I can say is GM sure did their homework when putting this combo together......I have driven some high H.P. cars before.......But......."Nothing" like this........Can't wait for the weather to show up at some time in the future.........LOL

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/04/0873B28C52934F4990CA106B380D1BAB-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/04/C9AD870E57CB416186491FE72722F77A-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/04/0B48387363AA4FB58FC00E0583D793AB-1.jpg

Zoomin

04-04-2014, 07:50 PM

Ah, the payoff finally arrives - all that blood, sweat, tears (and several shekel) and you're there!

I've really enjoyed this build and really appreciate the time you took to document it all.

What a fantastic ride. Enjoy!!

kwhizz

04-06-2014, 12:10 PM

Getting a few loose ends tied up..........Added a II Much fuel tank vent system......That took all of 45 minutes..........Time for a Nap again............There's also a shot showing a bottom shot of the car......everything is above the crossmember.......nothing hanging down below so the car is very "Street Smart".......(don't have to worry about speed bumps.....LOL)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/04/20EFBE9510B14F57A2567B656D176EEF-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/04/997B7F846DA74FB393D351C0A0504853-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/04/16F1288608BD4BC58516B6E34750F920-1.jpg

andrewb70

04-07-2014, 05:56 AM

Ken,

When does DaGrove open? We need some time slips...

Andrew

kwhizz

04-07-2014, 07:57 AM

It opened last week.............Andrew.......I have to say that I have driven what I thought were some powerful cars.........LOL.........Nothing like this thing.......It's gonna take some seat time to dial "Me" in to the car.........These Engines are Insane............

kwhizz

04-13-2014, 10:10 AM

The weather didn't co-operate with some sunshine today for some good pictures.....but here are some before and after pictures.......Best pull on the Dyno was 569 rear wheel H.P. and 512 ft pounds of torque......Idles like a Grandma's car with Ice Cold A/C......Killer sound system with satellite radio.......Crazy.......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zps6ad63732-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/04/39D9A8CD6FA846C6AF3BC8C8F5F65327-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/null_zpse05e6859-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/04/9E54410671FE4FD4871D3A7F8495C70F-1.jpg