69' nova

[Oregon]

Hello!

New to the forum. I figured I would get a project thread started.

About 2 months ago I bought a 69' nova. So far, nothing too crazy but I want to keep it a driver for now. Eventually there will be more, but for now here is what I am doing.

DSE multi-leaf
DSE speed 1 kit
DSE steering gear box
DSE tie rods
All new steering components
Vintage Wheel Works V40s.
Nitto NT05. 235/40R17, 255/40R17
Kore3 C6 front brake kit

Pictures shortly.

[Oregon]

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[Oregon]

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[Oregon]

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[splatt]

Looks like a great start. Are those hubs from Tobin also? And do those wheels fit without a spacer?

[Oregon]

Yup. Hubs are from Tobin.

The wheels fit great...so far. They are 8" w/4.75 BS and 9" w/5.5" BS if I recall correctly.

I will be finishing up the brake mock up this week. After talking to Tobin and reading other accounts, I think the caliper/wheel clearance should be close. I'll document any issues that arrise.

[craigs73]

looking good glad to see another nova ;)

[Jasons72]

Looks like a great start, I really like the color/trim/wheel package.

[splatt]

That's good. I just picked up a z51 brake kit from Tobin and am looking for wheels that will fit. I like the classic 5 spoke style too.

[Oregon]

New lower shock plates came in today so I was able to finish up the multi-leaf conversion. Something to note is that when you order a DSE drop leaf kit it doesn't include the multi-leaf u-bolt bolts, spacer blocks, or upper locating plate. It also ships with single bolt shock ends. If you use a shock with an eye on the bottom leaf plate, you need to find or order the correct shock plates ( I think they are just the normal multi-leaf plates). I'm sure all this is probably obvious but after talking with them about my conversion I was told I did not need a new plate ... which I then had to order later to finish the conversion.

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I also worked on the front brake conversion today. Packed the bearings and installed the hubs. I also did a quick mock up of the wheels to get an idea of caliper clearance. Unfortunately I'm still waiting for the rotors so I can't get an accurate measurement yet but yikes! It's going to be close. I wouldn't doubt if I end up needing a 1/8" spacer or so.

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[RayTx]

win for the build thread. good information! (I'm planning on installing a dseML)

[GS455vert]

I'm going to be doing my 70 SS soon and would love to know more about the vette brake system, hubs, donor year etc? Trying to get as much info to make informed/cost effective choices, thanks!

[rchaskin]

This is a great suspension set up. This is what is what i am running.

You would be ahead of the game to go ahead and do the Guildstrand-Mod. (lowers the UCA mounting points)
This front end setup is far tighter than stock, gives you more caster, but does not help camber gain at all.
If you push the car hard in turns, the outside of the tire will roll over like crazy. (Even with an aggresive alignment)

Do some searches on here for G-Mod and you can see what some others did.

This, along with everything else you have will make a HUGE difference in handling from stock.

Everyone that rides in my car is really impressed.

[Oregon]

GS455vert,
I would recommend you give Tobin a call at kore3. He can tell you more than you would ever want to know about brake systems. I purchased my whole kit from Tobin including the hubs which are made by them. The parts work perfectly and the service was top notch.

rchaskin,
Is it really as easy as it sounds? Just print the template from pozziracing.com, drill a couple of holes, trim off the top, and replace the mounting studs... If so I will jump on doing this while I'm waiting on my rotors.

[rchaskin]

Is it really as easy as it sounds? Just print the template from pozziracing.com, drill a couple of holes, trim off the top, and replace the mounting studs... If so I will jump on doing this while I'm waiting on my rotors.

That is it.
Really makes a difference. Keeps the tires flat under cornering.

There is a spot on the UCA mounts that is not flat on the factory Nova frame.
I did a little different than the template.

The template is for cars with factory a-arms. It relocates the mount down (camber gain) and rearward (for added caster).

Since I have the DSE arms as well, and they add more caster, I only moved my holes straight down. (5/8" IIRC)

This keeps the bolt holes away from that place that is not flat on the mount.

Good Luck!!

[Oregon]

rchaskin,

I called DSE to see what they thought of the Guildstrand mod along with the upper A-arms. They made it sound like it's not a positive or negative.

Did you install your arms and then later do the mod? If so, was it a noticeable difference from before? I'm just trying to decide if the mod is necessary.

[rchaskin]

I did just like you are doing.
Tubular UCA, tubular LCA, DSE 2" drop springs, DSE swaybar.

I did all of this at one time.
The car handled great on the road. I was running about -1 degree camber.

The first event I went to, I wore all of the rubber off the edges on the front tires.
It really pushed the front end around too.

Now, with the g-mod, I run about -1.5 degrees camber, and the tires don't roll over until you get down near 28 PSI.
It made a big difference. Seems like way more grip.

If you are only street cruising your car, I would not worry about it.
My advice is to do it and find every autocross you can!!!!!

[Oregon]

My rotors showed up from Kore3. I went to mount them and noticed that I have interference between the rotor hat and the pad abutment bracket. After talking with Tobin, he said he would contact DBA and see if anything has changed. If not, I may need to consider clearancing the abutment to clear the hat. That, or something is amiss.

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[Oregon]

Well, I re-torqued the spindle along with everything else and couldn't find anything that would force the rotor hat-to-bracket clearance issue. I ended up just clearancing the inside of the abutment bracket. I didn't have to take off much and everything clears now with room to spare.

In order to get the wheels to clear the calipers I ended up using a 1/4" spacer.
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I also installed a new power steering pump and lines.
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Now everything is back together and the alignment has been done. Wow! What a difference the steering modifications have made. It feels like a different car. Same goes for the brakes. Everything turned out fantastic.

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[johnny68]

nice build fronts gotta come down some i would do the gulstrand mod you wont be disappointed
good job on the car
john

[Oregon]

Yeah...I'm a bit confused as to why the front seems to be sitting so high.

[rchaskin]

It sure is high......
I looked at the part# on the spring, and it is correct.
I wonder if those were stock height and mis-labeled??

I had to take the cup off the end of my jack to get the jack out from under my car when I first let it down???

I ended up putting two 3/8" spring spacers in mine to keep the headers off the road.

Here is a good static pic of mine. It has 17s on it.
http://photosportsusa.com/Photos.aspx?moid=159402

[Oregon]

The only thing I can think of is maybe I didn't set the spring in the lower arm pocket correctly. It looks like there is a spring locator in the cup...I may have the spring resting atop this. Time to pull it back apart and check...

[rchaskin]

There is a locator in the frame as well.

Did you have to compress the springs to get them in?

[Oregon]

Hah. Good to know.

I set the spring in the lower cup and used a jack under the lower arm to push the arm up and the spring up into the frame cup. Probably a terrible way to do it, but it seemed to work.

[novaboy009]

I just put my coil springs in with the method you used. The upper should be more or less flat and should slide right into the upper pocket. On the factory arms there are 2 holes in the lower to drain water out of the LCA. The end of the spring should pop in with the end right at the drain holes.

[Oregon]

Well, I checked my springs and they were both about 180 degrees off from where they should have been. I dropped the lower arms and sorted it all out. The car still looks high but I haven't had a chance to drive it yet due to snow. Hopefully I'll get a chance to drive it next weekend and see if things are sorted out.

[johnny68]

time to get the cut off wheel out
john

[Oregon]

I finally got around to putting on the front sway bar .... only to find out it wouldn't fit between the frame and the crank pulley.

After looking closer, it seems the front sub is bent up in the middle. It is bent enough that the previous owner actually chopped a section out of the frame so the crank pulley would clear it.

I'm guessing I know the answer but ... what should I do here? Replace the sub frame?

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[Auto Rod Technologies]

Ouch.. may be time to replace that one..

[rchaskin]

Man that thing is tweaked......

Jumping railroad tracks???:hammer:

[cornfedbill]

Yeah, looks like that one needs to be recycled and replaced with a straight one. Ouch!

It may be tweaked somewhere else too and affect handling.

[novaboy009]

WOW That is a bad hit in an odd place. I think you're gonna need a new subframe. Might be worth a call to a frame shop and see if they can get creative, but I've never seen a frame bent like that before!

[Oregon]

Well, after much deliberation, I will be receiving a DSE subframe in early April. This was a longterm item on my list, but with the damage to the frame prodding me to look for a replacement frame, I decided to just do it now and be done with it.

[Razorhead]

Well I noticed with mine '70 Nova almost the same 'bend' in the frame, but not so much as here. Don't know what I'm going to do with it. Let me know how it is with the DSE subframe !

[Oregon]

There were a few delays but the subframe finally showed up today! Many thanks to MCB for taking care of me.

The motor and transmission are about ready to come out so hopefully I'll make some progress in the next couple of weeks...baby steps.97337

[Oregon]

Slow? Check!
Boring? Check!

Yup, it's my build thread. I finally got the new subframe on the car. Next on the list is to clean up the firewall and pull everything off the rear to install the dse minitubs that just showed up.

I also ended up ordering a set of Formula 43 RAD-10 wheels. Those should show up in a couple of weeks.

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[harleygolf1]

Did you order the subframe by itself or did it come complete? Will you be looking to part with any of the previously purchased parts?

[Oregon]

I ordered it fully assembled.

I will be selling off the dse stuff that was previously installed. I'm giving a buddy of mine first whack at the stuff. Anything and everything he doesn't take will end up for sale here. I will also be selling the vintage wheel works wheels.

[Oregon]

Wheels showed up today! These look flawless in person. :headbang:
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[rickpaw]

The new wheels look great. I'd like to have those Formula wheels on my car some day.

[Oregon]

Quadralink bits and rear end showed up yesterday. Thanks again to MCB. Their service is awesome.

I guess I better get crackin'!

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[Oregon]

Well...I haven't made much forward progress but I haven't completely stalled. I decide to just go for it and jump in head first on this build.

I tore it down...
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Built a cart...
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...and sent it away. I haven't had as much time as I would like to work on the car so I decided to farm out some of the build. It was just picked up by Metal Works yesterday. They will be dipping the car, fixing the rough metal bits, installing the suspension, and a few other goodies.

[Oregon]

I've still been hoarding parts...

Many thanks to Bowler for their super fast service on the T56 Magnum.
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DSE headers
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Thanks to Billy Utley for landing me some Recaro sporter cs seats and a few other parts. Also for being willing to chat about nova setup details with me.

Here are the awesome hood vents I scored from Billy
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[Motown 454]

Some real nice stuff there. The vents look nice!

[Oregon]

Car is out of the tank. Overall she's not in too bad of shape. A bit of rust damage around the rear window and a bad repair by the passenger door frame. I figured there was going to be an issue there since it looked like there was a bulge under the paint in that area.

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[Justin@EntropyRad]

Going to be intense! Lots of killer parts going on there! Body looks nice and solid too, so not too much downtime

[Oregon]

More shiny arrived from autorad and ringbros.

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Progress!

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Will be taking the core support and hinges to metalworks tomorrow. They will be hanging the front sheet metal and assuring alignment of the frame as well as modifying the sub rails for the ride height changes. Should be a roller in less than a month!

[rickpaw]

Nice progress.

What are you doing with the old DSE shock plates, now that you're switching to Quadralink?

[Oregon]

My friend has a 70' Nova project. He bought all the take off parts when I made the switch.

[Oregon]

Crappy cellphone pictures.

Rear is done and the quadra-link is installed.
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Transmission tunnel fitting has started.
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[Oregon]

front sheet metal and core support aligned

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[Oregon]

Ride height is set. Had them do a small modification to the quadralink cross member height and track bar mount. We also used 1/2 height bushings in front. I think the stance in the end was worth it (not my wheels)

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[Onebad78ta]

Right on man ,,,,looks good,,I wish I lived closer so I could see your car in person.

[MMcMasters]

The stance looks killer!!!

[Oregon]

Transmission tunnel is almost wrapped up!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/46f3ccd15993_zpskqetvejn-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/46f3ccd15993_zpskqetvejn.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/461560015101_zps7e6twhk0-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/461560015101_zps7e6twhk0.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/4618e2915165_zpszxtlptlr-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/4618e2915165_zpszxtlptlr.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/46032b215447_zpsmji0gxp5-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/46032b215447_zpsmji0gxp5.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/468cda815263_zpszxthl5nk-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/468cda815263_zpszxthl5nk.jpg.html)

[Kiquee71]

Nice work on your Nova.

[Oregon]

Wheels and tires showed up yesterday. I sold the last set of polished w/gray center formula43s to change sizes. I ended up changing finishes as well. Anyways...

Wheels are Formula43 RAD10
front: 18x9
rear: 19x11

Tires are Michelin Pilot Super Sport
front: 255/35ZR-18
rear: 305/30ZR-19

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_20150421_181014964_zps5p3fwgn2-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20150421_181014964_zps5p3fwgn2.jpg.html)

[Oregon]

Brought the car home yesterday.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/novapickup_zpsyympdocv-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/nova-pickup_zpsyympdocv.jpg.html)


Next up is to get the brakes sorted out. I'm using Ron Sutton's brake consultation service. I'd recommend this to anyone looking to setup their brakes properly. It's cheap piece of mind and he has been great to work with.

After that, I just need to get a motor in there to drop the front back down and then it's back to metalworks for panel replacement and cage.

[Oregon]

Well...I'm less that two months from ordering a motor and I'm having a hell of a time making a decision.

The crate motors currently in the running are the LSA and lsx454. A 416/417 ls3 is a possibility, but the torque profile of the other two is more appealing to me.

I can't seem to find weight info on the LSA with the heat-exchanger and all the ancillaries to compare against the lsx.

Since this is going to be 90% street car so I'm not interested in peak horse power and having to rev the engine out. I also know the LSA and LSX aren't the lightest options, but again ... not-race-car.


Any opinions on which way to go? I'm insanely indecisive.

[LS1NOVA]

Aluminum block LS2/3 and a couple turbos!

[Motown 454]

Damn that's looking nice! Great job.

[Oregon]

Brakes showed up. Aerolite 6 piston fronts and Superlite 4 piston rears. Thanks to Ron Sutton for working up the brake/piston/pad selection for my setup. Ron is great to work with.

Rear brakes and parking brake setup are now installed. I'm just waiting on a couple of bolts to finish the fronts.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/08/IMG_20150816_161017_zpshmqggnw7-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20150816_161017_zpshmqggnw7.jpg.html)

Now i need to figure out where to stick the e-stopp actuator box for the parking brake.

[Oregon]

Well...seeing as how I've been running this project without any REAL plan, I figured it would be good to get the direction hammered out. I ended up getting in touch with Ben Hermance a while back and decided to work with him on a rendering that I could stick to throughout the build. I desperately needed this to give me some sense of direction, otherwise I would keep changing things and continue wasting time and money.

I didn't give him much direction other than overall influence/theme, and that I wanted to finally get more rubber under a Nova (give me flares without ruining the car). I am more than pleased with the final out come. Eventually I'll need to find a shop that can take this on. I would like to stick to the PNW, but we'll see. Anyways....

Here it is. I welcome all feedback good or bad!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/08/69nova_COMP_PRINT_preview_zpsznwywdk0-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/69nova_COMP_PRINT_preview_zpsznwywdk0.jpg.html)

[rchaskin]

Very radical.....I like it. AWESOME!!
Are you thinking 315s and 335s or 335s all the way around?

If it were mine, it would have some sort of cowl hood or L88 or stinger or something.

JCG has a good vision of adding width / flares to older cars.
http://www.jcgrestorationandcustoms.com/

[19,69camaro]

I love the rendering. One thing that really bugs me about lowering a Nova is the saggy assend look they get from uneven wheel coverage. I like how you can still maintain a bit of a rake but still have an even amount of wheel coverage.

[Oregon]

I tried some cowl designs, but in the end I always gravited toward the clean look of a flat hood. I felt that the rest of the car had enough visual interest that adding stuff to the hood made it look too busy.

Yeah, I've seen the JCG method and I dig it. It's just a little too subdued for the theme I was going for.

[Oregon]

Tire size isn't nailed down yet. I'll need to play with sizing once the flare sizing is determined and measurements can be taken.

Would be pretty awesome to fit a square setup on it.

[rchaskin]

I tried some cowl designs, but in the end I always gravited toward the clean look of a flat hood. I felt that the rest of the car had enough visual interest that adding stuff to the hood made it look too busy.

Yeah, I've seen the JCG method and I dig it. It's just a little too subdued for the theme I was going for.

I just meant he could probably do the metal work you had in the rendering.
They can do some pretty complex metalwork.

[Oregon]

Ahhhh gotcha! Agreed.

[Oregon]

Well...motor plans mellowed out for now. The boss convinced me to drive something more manageable to start out and "upgrade" later if I really feel the need. Motor showed up yesterday. Pretty simple LS3. About 550 fwhp.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_20150901_200121_zpsst9it0tz-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20150901_200121_zpsst9it0tz.jpg.html)

[Oregon]

Gas tank showed up after a bit of a snafu with a tank mixup. Ricks and MCB went above and beyond to fix the issue and the turn around was extremely quick. Both are top notch.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_20150902_181038_zpszsf8znqk-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20150902_181038_zpszsf8znqk.jpg.html)

[Oregon]

For better or worse, I have new tires on the way....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/Screen20Shot202015091120at209154520AM_zp-1.png (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Screen%20Shot%202015-09-11%20at%209.15.45%20AM_zpssfopnvr4.png.html)

Scrub radius should get interesting...Time to warm up the cutoff wheel and get ready to make some room!

Anyone need 2 19x11 Formula43 wheels? :hammer:

[rchaskin]

Heck yes!!!!

I think it will stick like glue. In these type of cars, front grip is king.

[Oregon]

Radiator came in this week. Got it assembled and installed.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_20150920_133204_zps9c4kiozv-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20150920_133204_zps9c4kiozv.jpg.html)https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_20150920_133229_zpszhwih5gr-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20150920_133229_zpszhwih5gr.jpg.html)

Any suggestions on where to mount the oil cooler? Is it cool to mount it smack in the middle of the AC condensor or will I be restricting too much air flow?
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_20150920_133827_zpsgwyic4ao-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20150920_133827_zpsgwyic4ao.jpg.html)https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_20150920_134333_zps15dxtutv-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20150920_134333_zps15dxtutv.jpg.html)

[Oregon]

Slow progress....

I spent some time sorting out parallel and concentric alignment on the bell-housing. I ended up with a few shims to get things within spec. The concentric measurements were good to go so there was no need to get offset dowels.

Ordered up a clutch and go it installed. It's a Monster LT1-S. It's basically a C7 clutch with a custom billet steel flywheel and some other little bits. I've heard good things about it so I thought I'd give it a go.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/12/IMG_20151129_122332_zpsnfeojysj-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20151129_122332_zpsnfeojysj.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/12/IMG_20151129_122326_zpsltqlvozx-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20151129_122326_zpsltqlvozx.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/12/IMG_20151130_181909_zps4iedkbli-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20151130_181909_zps4iedkbli.jpg.html)


Also got around to bolting on the new rim halves to widen the front wheels.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/12/IMG_20151009_185010_zpswpwswmmx-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20151009_185010_zpswpwswmmx.jpg.html)


Do these tires make me look fat, or just stupid?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/12/IMG_20151207_145401_zps5luu6dwp-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20151207_145401_zps5luu6dwp.jpg.html)


My slave cylinder shows up today. With any luck, I'll have the engine/trans installed in the car by the end of the weekend.

[Oregon]

Motor/transmission are in. Looks like I'm going to have to do some firewall work to allow proper clearance for the fuel rail feed line...oh well, probably wouldn't hurt to add some additional clearance behind the motor anyways.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/12/IMG_20151214_173729_zpsleqgadnn-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20151214_173729_zpsleqgadnn.jpg.html)

[Kiquee71]

Great looking Nova, like the modifications on it. Looking forward to seeing the completed car. Keep us updated on your progress.

[RaceFace]

Wow!! Lookin' good!! Keep the pics coming!!

[Gil]

Very nice ! will be bada$$ !
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Gil

[Oregon]

Well...I made the decision to dial-it-back a bit. I won't be doing fender flares after-all.

This is my first build and I feel like I've been over reaching and convincing myself to cram every possible idea into the car. I had to take a step back and remember what the car is being built for. I was in danger of getting myself into a position where the car would be in a perpetual state of modification (not drivable).

Anyways. I had some frustration with back spacing being slightly off on my wheels once ride height was set. It just wasn't going to work. So I put a wheel fit tool to use and got new wheels on. So far, the fit is bang-on.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/20160411_zpshzpnqq58-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/2016-04-11_zpshzpnqq58.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_20160601_100735_zpsatd1mspq-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20160601_100735_zpsatd1mspq.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_20160601_100718_zps7rxonq0z-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20160601_100718_zps7rxonq0z.jpg.html)

[Oregon]

Got some ultimate headers and brake booster mocked up. The fit leaves TONS of room.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_20160224_162703_zpsktha5fsz-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20160224_162703_zpsktha5fsz.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_20160224_162627_zpsis4iatjh-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20160224_162627_zpsis4iatjh.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_20160601_064018_zpsv1ipze3h-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20160601_064018_zpsv1ipze3h.jpg.html)

[Oregon]

IQ3s, flush mount bezel, and sheet metal dash showed up. Excited to test the fit the dash this weekend. Fingers crossed it's a better fit than the plastic inserts kicking around.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_20160523_180652_zpsxa3sd0qv-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20160523_180652_zpsxa3sd0qv.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_20160523_180554_zps5d0tfb4l-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20160523_180554_zps5d0tfb4l.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/dash_zpscfa3m259-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/dash_zpscfa3m259.jpg.html)

[rchaskin]

.....I had some frustration with back spacing being slightly off on my wheels once ride height was set. It just wasn't going to work. So I put a wheel fit tool to use and got new wheels on. So far, the fit is bang-on....

just for the record, what sizes / bs did you end up with?

Stance is awesome!!

[Gil]

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[Oregon]

Front: 18x9.5 6.25" BS. 265/35R18
Rear: 19x11 5.5" BS. 305/30r19

[rchaskin]

Awesome...Thanks!!

[Oregon]

Dailey 3-stage dry sump. The pump mounts directly to the pan. Pan depth is only about 1 3/4 inches!

It's almost too pretty to hide inside an engine bay. I might just display it on my coffee table instead.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_20160726_194512_zpsp0lenj5f-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160726_194512_zpsp0lenj5f.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_20160726_194533_zps1dw00pzz-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160726_194533_zps1dw00pzz.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_20160726_194603_zpsba3pazr0-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160726_194603_zpsba3pazr0.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_20160726_194908_zpslml8jhsj-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160726_194908_zpslml8jhsj.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_20160726_194207_zps97cfcxc3-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160726_194207_zps97cfcxc3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_20160726_194219_zpscmdy8z4b-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160726_194219_zpscmdy8z4b.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_20160726_194235_zpslcoisi3m-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160726_194235_zpslcoisi3m.jpg.html)

[Josh@Ridetech]

Dailey 3-stage dry sump. The pump mounts directly to the pan. Pan depth is only about 1 3/4 inches!

It's almost too pretty to hide inside an engine bay. I might just display it on my coffee table instead.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_20160726_194512_zpsp0lenj5f-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160726_194512_zpsp0lenj5f.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_20160726_194533_zps1dw00pzz-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160726_194533_zps1dw00pzz.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_20160726_194603_zpsba3pazr0-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160726_194603_zpsba3pazr0.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_20160726_194908_zpslml8jhsj-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160726_194908_zpslml8jhsj.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_20160726_194207_zps97cfcxc3-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160726_194207_zps97cfcxc3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_20160726_194219_zpscmdy8z4b-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160726_194219_zpscmdy8z4b.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_20160726_194235_zpslcoisi3m-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20160726_194235_zpslcoisi3m.jpg.html)

The Dailey pans are gorgeous!

[Jeff70]

Nice stance! And you changed wheels again....LOL

[Oregon]

I did!

Well...not just wheels either. Seats, intake, oil pan, gas tank...I'm sure there is something else I'm missing. None of this is in the thread yet, but I'll update more on that later.

This thread should be a guide on how not-to go about a project. Plan before you begin. Then plan some more. Then wait a while and revisit the plan.

A project without scope is a project that will never be complete. Setting boundaries, determining purpose, and setting a budget should all come first. I got that advice BEFORE I started this car...I guess I should have listened.

[Oregon]

Wegner setup and Dailey pan/pump installed.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/01/IMG_20161020_125458_zps9bhwxooi-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20161020_125458_zps9bhwxooi.jpg.html)

[Oregon]

When I got the dry-sump pump mounted and attempted to install the motor, the pump ended up wanting to occupy the same space as the motor mount. I knew interference was inevitable...

I've been wanting to push the motor back for a while now. This situation finally gave me the excuse to do it.

The motor got pushed back about 12.5" from the existing motor mounts.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/01/25_zpsvcna1ngl-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/25_zpsvcna1ngl.jpg.html)

The new motor location is setup to give me just enough room to install/remove the dry-sump pump belt.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/01/28_zps4z8rmpr3-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/28_zps4z8rmpr3.jpg.html)

[Oregon]

Well, not a ton of progress. The dash is out and the motor mounts have been tacked in but still need a bit of tweaking.

The motor mounts will be easily removable from the frame to aid in engine removal. We will be running crush tubes through the subframe rail and running bolts through the rail from the outside.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/IMG_20170329_104323_zpsodtendju-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20170329_104323_zpsodtendju.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/IMG_20170329_104641_zpsjupped0k-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20170329_104641_zpsjupped0k.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/IMG_20170329_104342_zps1mscc8zv-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20170329_104342_zps1mscc8zv.jpg.html)


This picture gives a decent idea of where the motor sits in relation to the hub centerlines.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/IMG_20170329_104314_zpso0nyzl6j-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20170329_104314_zpso0nyzl6j.jpg.html)


The last thing we did was do a trial fit of seat placement (not my seat). Needless to say, there won't be a back seat

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/IMG_20170329_122823_zpsdgwspvgl-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20170329_122823_zpsdgwspvgl.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/IMG_20170329_122832_zpslz9fkns7-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20170329_122832_zpslz9fkns7.jpg.html)

Next up is building the exhaust and ordering a driveline so we can get the transmission crossmember built.

[beater65]

I just read your thread front to back.

Holy crap... there have been numerous hard left turns to say the least lol

I expected after first few posts this to be a fairly stock paint/looking nova with some nice suspension and wheels at end... Going HARD now! lol

[BlackHD]

Did you end up selling your old wheel?

[Oregon]

Still have my old wheels. I'd like to have them as a back-up set...but the backspacing is a hair off on the rear. I'm going to see if I can make room for them, if not I'll probably offload them.

Drive shaft arrived. Bathroom scale puts it at 12lbs. Not bad.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/IMG_20170511_143156_zpsorkuwbbp-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20170511_143156_zpsorkuwbbp.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/IMG_20170511_143241_zps4wuofp4o-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/IMG_20170511_143241_zps4wuofp4o.jpg.html)

Mandrel bends for the exhaust and a pair of black widow mufflers are on their way.

[BlackHD]

Let me know if you want to sell the wheels. What's the backspacing?

[QA1_Bill]

Love the build! I was the one who worked out your driveshaft for ya! Nice to see them in their natural habitat...

[TheBandit]

Any updates on this? Read the first few pages when it was still burgundy and then things escalated quickly!

[medbali76]

Well...seeing as how I've been running this project without any REAL plan, I figured it would be good to get the direction hammered out. I ended up getting in touch with Ben Hermance a while back and decided to work with him on a rendering that I could stick to throughout the build. I desperately needed this to give me some sense of direction, otherwise I would keep changing things and continue wasting time and money.

I didn't give him much direction other than overall influence/theme, and that I wanted to finally get more rubber under a Nova (give me flares without ruining the car). I am more than pleased with the final out come. Eventually I'll need to find a shop that can take this on. I would like to stick to the PNW, but we'll see. Anyways....

Here it is. I welcome all feedback good or bad!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/08/69nova_COMP_PRINT_preview_zpsznwywdk0-1.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/jedediahs/media/69nova_COMP_PRINT_preview_zpsznwywdk0.jpg.html)

Wow...This is the best Nova rendering I have ever seen... and actually pretty close to my Nova project as well. Awesome...
Your project is going on a perfect direction. I look forward to new updates!

[Oregon]

Thanks medbali76. I've been following your Nova as well. I love the direction you took with the widening. I'ts definitely got me thinking about going less drastic with the flare.

Offending quarter panel was removed and new one was tacked in.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/09/ucexportdownloadid0B68hXFChsn6KNVJqZzdsQ-1.jpg

Firewall was tacked in but it ended up not being what we were looking for....so it was cutout and the work started over.

The decision was to cut out more of the body. This was done for a few reasons (flatter firewall, increased access to engine, room for drysump tank)

Sacrificial piece to build the mock-up firewall off of.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/09/ucexportdownloadid0B68hXFChsn6KTFNyTEpDW-1.jpg

Currently working out the general shape before metal work begins.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/09/ucexportdownloadid0B68hXFChsn6KdkcxNnp3M-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/09/ucexportdownloadid0B68hXFChsn6KTzVqYklve-1.jpg

[medbali76]

It is good that you got a rendering before started. I have nothing and I have 2 directions that I am hesitating between. Gives me headache. I like this modern look you have on the rendering and I like also the original look with vinyl top. I would paint the car dodge's destroyer grey if I go to get the modern look or gloss black with all factory chromed stuff maybe vinyl top too if I go to original look. I dont know yet which way to choose but I have to decide very soon.

What is this color on the rendering? Is it an existing color? It is pretty cool.
As for the flares I like this as it is. It look pretty nice as painted to the car's color.
I have choosen the difficult and the most expensive way for the widening and I am still not sure about the final outcome. Might turn out pretty badass or just a weird looking thing that will worth ****. Will see.

[Oregon]

It's funny. You and I are split on the same decisions. I also really like the old school black with chrome on these cars and have considered going that direction many times.

The rendering is good to have to keep you focused, or at least make you feel guilty every time you try to change your mind.

The color was suppose to be GTR Gun Metal (KAD) but the GTR color is a bit lighter than the rendering.

[medbali76]

I am spendig hours every day thinking and watching pictures of both directions :D
It is so hard decision...
By the way even if I go to oldschool ( which I think is really possible )the car will have a few things on it that will give a nice modern look.

[ryeguy2006a]

Beautiful car! You have done a ton of work, Nicely done. I will keep watch for updates on this one.

[813Demon340]

I love what you've done with your Nova! Flares would be cool, but a lot of work to make them look right. The rendering looks good and makes it tough. Keep up the great work!

[Oregon]

The car has been slow going lately. Other priorities took over, but hopefully it will get moving again soon.

I drove up to Ultra-Carbon today and picked up a few pieces I ordered a while back. The finish on these parts is making it hard for me to want to paint over them...

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[70CougarXr7]

Wow, awesome looking that carbon!!!

[OregonianNova]

This car is going to look amazing. I wish I could afford those pieces for my nova. Know anyone looking to buy a kidney?

[Highway101]

Stunning looking Nova. Bodywork looks to be in great nick!

[Motoracer838]

Cool build. Scope creep and I are old friends, even if I start with a plan, I tend to take soo long with projects that I will start to second guess myself and often get distracted by the next new shiny thing to come along... I swear I've turned into Stacy David, between cars and motorcycles I have more than a half dozen open projects...

That light at the end of the tunnel, it's an oncoming train, Joe

[Oregon]

I'm hoping to hear back on the car progress this weekend. It would be nice to get all these parts out of my garage and onto the car.

Another piece of the puzzle showed up. A 22 gal. Pyrotect cell with an in-tank Weldon pump and a Holley hydramat setup. Dealing with Steve at Pyrotect was a great experience.


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[Oregon]

Well...I got to have my turn at a crappy shop experience!

2 years ago, I dropped my car at a shop that was recommended by a few folks. The punch list wasn't long... cage, firewall, rear bulk head, move motor back, box frame.

As of 2 weeks ago, there was still no firewall (hacked out)..or bulkhead (hacked out)...or cage... and the frame hadn't been boxed. The motor had been moved, but the motor and trans mounts needed to be completely re-done.

Every month, week, day there was some excuse as to why work wasn't getting done. So...I finally made a date to just pick up the car and move on.

In the 2 weeks since I saw the car last, the frame was mostly boxed in, 80% of a cage was bent up and tacked in, and the motor mounts were 90% done. 2 freakin' years of waiting for nothing, and a big chunk of work was done at the last second in less than 2 weeks.

Now I have to comb over the car to audit all the work and see what can be salvaged, and what needs to be redone. Everything is covered in 2 years of grinding dust, parts are scattered everywhere, small bits are missing, and on and on....

I need to decide to pick up some tools and do it my damn self, or go find another shop that may or may-not jerk me around.

Silver lining is, I have my car back, and he basically didn't charge me anything for the amazing experience.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/07/IMG_20180708_161032-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/07/IMG_20180708_160520-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/07/IMG_20180708_160508-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/07/IMG_20180708_160543-1.jpg

[Dan Tugues]

this is outrageous! - a shop that works in rigged ways like that should be put out of business! - Great car my friend.. can't wait to see it performing, a real dream come true for a lot of us!.. thank you for sharing!..