Froggy 69Bird PT wannabe - "poor dady" VERY SLOW build.

[RaceFace]

Great looking car Gil!! Keep up the work and keep the pictures coming!!

[AtomicFirebird]

Beau-ti-ful!!!!

[andrewb70]

.....

Thanks Andrew,
You just need 4 to 8 weeks ship, 3 to 7K$ & an International Drivers Licence, then sell the Cougar to me if you don't want to pay & wait to get it back !
....

How about you just buy it, and have it shipped to you and then I can come visit :-)

Andrew

[farl cogetty]

Thanks Farl,
Should be nice as I live relatively close to the ferry from UK, I would love to go to Santa Pod

August and September quite alot happens (2 of the biggest static shows at old warden and ipswich ,euro finals at santa pod etc)

[68400BIRD]

The car looks great. Love the wheels, has a great stance.

[Gil]

Great looking car Gil!! Keep up the work and keep the pictures coming!!


Beau-ti-ful!!!!

Thanks a lot guys, appreciate all the kind words !

Corlas, green machine has a complete 400 now or what ?:poke:

Gil

[Gil]

How about you just buy it, and have it shipped to you and then I can come visit :-)

Andrew

Weeell... What about me & familly rent your GTO to roadtrip when visiting the States in a few years ? lol
Gil

[Gil]

August and September quite alot happens (2 of the biggest static shows at old warden and ipswich ,euro finals at santa pod etc)

I think I can plan something like this for next year maybe... should be fun !

[Gil]

The car looks great. Love the wheels, has a great stance.

Thanks Rob,

Yap, pretty happy with the stance, perfect for EU roads. I was affraid it could be too low when I changed the rear shocks, & go from 14 to 17 can be tricky in the wheelwell.
Love the wheels too, it was a bet as I wanted to keep the old school look & have a full 17 tires choice, nice wheels & BS guys are great...
Love a lot your wheels too but it was too expensive @ my door.

Last one from the WE, now it's rainning all time...

118062

Gil

[camarodude87]

Gil,

What BS wheel is this? Looked on their website and didnt see the exact ones you had. Thanks Ray

[lucky13firebird]

Gil, you can borrow any of my rust buckets when you come over ;-) dont forget a tetnis shot first...

That bird is looking good.

[Gil]

Gil,

What BS wheel is this? Looked on their website and didnt see the exact ones you had. Thanks Ray

Hi Ray,
Billet Specialties Legends Series Rival G's 17x8 BS 4.5 all 4 corners, with 235/45R17
Gil

[Gil]

Gil, you can borrow any of my rust buckets when you come over ;-) dont forget a tetnis shot first...

That bird is looking good.

Thanks Lucky,
No problem, if you need an apprentice I'm in to come & work on your nice cars while gal's & kids visiting & spending our money :doh: . I'll take my greasy blue coveralls !
Gil

[Gil]

So... What's next ?

1) Replace transmission mount
2) Replace body mounts
3) Install subframe connectors

Hope to start this week-end
Gil

[Ben@SpeedTech]

That should help stiffen things up a bit. Have fun and be sure to post photos! :)

[bello]

Salut voisin !!

Superbe Firebird, et beau travail !
Ca fait du bien de voir un pro touring dans les environs !!

Tu es d'ou dans le Nord ? (j'ai vu "un 59" sur ta plaque)

Hate de voir la suite !!

[BigRedCamaro]

Thanks Rob,

Yap, pretty happy with the stance, perfect for EU roads. I was affraid it could be too low when I changed the rear shocks, & go from 14 to 17 can be tricky in the wheelwell.
Love the wheels too, it was a bet as I wanted to keep the old school look & have a full 17 tires choice, nice wheels & BS guys are great...
Love a lot your wheels too but it was too expensive @ my door.

Last one from the WE, now it's rainning all time...

118062

Gil

Very nice! Great color. The wheels are the perfect look with your Firebird!

[Gil]

Salut voisin !!

Superbe Firebird, et beau travail !
Ca fait du bien de voir un pro touring dans les environs !!

Tu es d'ou dans le Nord ? (j'ai vu "un 59" sur ta plaque)

Hate de voir la suite !!

Merci David, pas eu le temps de faire grand chose ces derniers jours... Et toi, ta Chevelle, des photos ?
Je suis pas loin, sur Lambersart... Donne ton tel en MP, si ça te dit tu peux passer la voir et boire une bière.
Gil

[Gil]

Very nice! Great color. The wheels are the perfect look with your Firebird!

Thank you very much ! Kind words from Big Red Team is a HUGE motivation for this new year !

Awesome team for this iconic baddest extreme car ever on earth !
Hope you all will have a blast this year with the rebuild & book project with Tony H.

Wish you all a Happy New Year, best wishes, good health & a lot of kudos !

Gil

[Godbolt]

Merci, pas eu le temps de faire grand chose ces derniers jours...
Je suis pas loin, sur Lambersart... Donne ton tel en MP, si ça te dit tu peux passer la voir et boire une bière.
Gil

I love the French language. Even though I'm not certain what you are saying when I imagine it it sounds so good!

[Gil]

I love the French language. Even though I'm not certain what you are saying when I imagine it it sounds so good!

Thanks James, best wishes for this new year !
Your Mustang is awesome ! Went a few times in OZ, had a blast.
I'll come again whith Familly for vaca in a few years

Bello lives just 10 minutes from me.
I asked him to MP his phone so we can meet & have a beer.
Gil

[Godbolt]

If you head out this way make sure to let me know. I can show you some good places to go and things to do. Being Australian, I understood there was beer involved in your conversation. :naughty:

[Z06killinSBF]

:Alchy: Something about beer going on in here?

[Gil]

Yees ! We are close to Belgium here, famous for the beers !

Bello is comining home Wednesday evening for a beer, he has a 66 Chevelle he wants to swap with LS1, sound a great plan to talk about...

Free entry, welcome! I have a few beers in the fridge !

Gil

[bello]

Thanks gil,

Belgium is a paradise for beer !!!

Can't wait to see the Firebird !

I hope i could start my swap soon
So i could share with the pro-touring community ;)

[Gil]

Sure ! was nice meeting you, don't hesitate to give me a call when you're ready to start !

So I worked a little

Had a new trans mount in a box for about 6 years, thought It certainly was high time to replace

122006

122007

About 4/5 inch less angle, hope this will delete the vibration I had in my rear end @ 60 mph

Much better feeling with this one...

122008

Also Here are my Xmas gifts, with these ramps I can work safely below with the wheels on the ground

122009

Thanks
Gil

[bello]

I will do ! thanks.

Keep on Progress Gil !
your Firebird is really nice !

[Gil]

Thanks David, I try my best !

Started the body bushings :

Just loosened the driver side & removed the passenger side.

122309

122312

Then raised "gently" the body with a 4x4, 14" long piece of wood & replaced old rubber vs new solid Alu. from Global West.

This Kit #818 allowed me to use my comp. engineering subframe connectors because the bushing under the seat has a deeper step used to sandwich frame & subframe connector.

122311

122310

Next step is driver side, then SFCs...

Thanks
Gil

[Gil]

Nearly done,

only the last one, the rad. support resists...

I think prev. owner had a little front collision, as the hole is 1/3 inch inset

So it will need persuasion to slot... But gently, because my steering box is stressed.

122362

Gil

[Gil]

Bushings mission complete ! All replaced & torqued @ specs...

Was a real pain as I had to fight against this last one driver side rad. support & I'm not really a tough guy...

I know it could have been a lot worse if bolts were rusted or spring clips gone. I tried not to think about that....

122468

But they were so worn out I had to replace them.

122469

Next... SFCs...

Gil

[Gil]

Hi all,

As I always try to be on a "familly budget friendly" build, I saw on Pozzi's site that we can swap a 3rd gen IROC-Z steering box for the 1st gen. So I search & found this :

https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/82880-How-to-swap-3rd-Gen-IROC-Camaro-Steering-Box-into-1st-Gen-Camaro

Thanks Pete for this awesome write up !

I found the parts from a 88 Camaro IROC-Z & I'm in the sourcing of all the other parts needed to do the swap.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

In a second phase I spoke a lot with Lucky13 & Tobin@Kore3 as I have a poor vacuum for my brake booster, so I search a budget friendly way to have good brakes without paying a vacuum pump or a hydroboost system.

We found we can use a Corvette 1" bore MC to swap for manual brakes on 1st gens with another pushrod I'll build & with 3/16" lines and fittings I'll add my Wilwood prop. valve.

68-76 Corvette with manual brakes
CARDONE 101371
RAYBESTOS MC36367
DORMAN M36367
AC DELCO 18M27 (18030269)

So I'll also source the parts I need & do my brakes upgrade soon.

Thanks
Gil

[Josue]

Thanks for the MC tip, Gil!

I thought about throwing a booster on my 68, just to see if it would help. I only have around 11-whatever unit of measure vacuum is lol, and many people say that's not enough. Others say they only have 11 and their brakes work just fine, so I'm on the fence. I definitely need a new MC for the swap though...

And, I can't wait to get my 3rd gen steering box installed!

[Gil]

No problem,
From Tobin, for a 4 discs brakes setup, 14 inches Hg is good, less than 12" Hg is not good...
I bought a vacuometer to see if the vacuum is good enough, but I think I don't have 11" Hg
I made a little Venturi mod. to have more vacuum, but even with it I think I'm far away from 14" Hg
Gil

[Gil]

Hello all,

Before starting the body bushings replacement the driver side frame alignment hole wasn't centered,
Then I replaced the bushing & the alignment hole still not centered,

But I measured diagonally from a hole @ the front of the leaf springs to a hole @ the frame near the rad. core support
then another measure from the same holes @ the front of the leaf springs to the frame alignment holes
and frame is squared...

is it an issue that the driver side frame alignment hole is not centered on one side but the frame is squared ?

Thanks
Gil

[lucky13firebird]

These cars are far from perfect... thats why every door and quarter panel and fender is unique... thats all i have to say... ;-)

[Gil]

I see what you mean !
I'll double check again from a hole @ the front of the leaf springs to the lower ball-joints with a plumb bob to be sure it's squared...
I'm not confident because previous owner had a little accident in the driver side front, then the front hood gap is bigger than the other side. It is 1/3" away from the front-end seal...
Maybe only the front end moved...
Gil

[bello]

Hi Gil !

Sorry for your frame issue !

Let me know if you need help for your brake and steering box swap.

I'm on the same boat for my Chevelle and Tobin @ Kore3 was very helpfull for me !

David.

[68Formula]

No problem,
From Tobin, for a 4 discs brakes setup, 14 inches Hg is good, less than 12" Hg is not good...
I bought a vacuometer to see if the vacuum is good enough, but I think I don't have 11" Hg
I made a little Venturi mod. to have more vacuum, but even with it I think I'm far away from 14" Hg
Gil

You're running a 455 correct? What are your camshaft specs and compression ratio? How much initial static timing are you running?

[Gil]

Hi Gil !

Sorry for your frame issue !

Let me know if you need help for your brake and steering box swap.

I'm on the same boat for my Chevelle and Tobin @ Kore3 was very helpfull for me !

David.

Thanks David,
No worries, frame should be Ok !
Maybe I'll call you in the next weeks to help with bleeding my brakes arround a few beers if I can't find a way to do it alone, I have to motivate myself to restart working in the garage now !


You're running a 455 correct? What are your camshaft specs and compression ratio? How much initial static timing are you running?

Well... Yes, 455 a bit modified.
Unfortunately I think my knowledges are way too low to answer you as I owned the car 10 years ago with motor in already & without any specs from the previous owner.
Eard he bought it new in the US & put it in without changing or modifying anything else
What I can only say about perf. is 13 seconds for a 1/4 mile

Gil

[Gil]

Well...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/_DSC8414-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8414.jpg.html)

Lets do it !
Gil

[lucky13firebird]

Good luck!

[Josue]

Piece of cake, have fun!!

[Ben@SpeedTech]

Bon progrès! Safe is a good thing. I did a conversion from factory G body to the dual piston 2002 Camaro brakes up front and the stopping power was an incredible difference. I'm sure you will feel that and more with that Wilwood package. Good luck!

[bello]

[QUOTE=Gil;1184514]Thanks David,
No worries, frame should be Ok !
Maybe I'll call you in the next weeks to help with bleeding my brakes arround a few beers if I can't find a way to do it alone, I have to motivate myself to restart working in the garage now !





No problem Gil,

Don't hesitate to call :)
I also need some motivation to work on my project !!

[Gil]

Thanks guys !

Tried to double flare with a cheap tool but wasn't happy at all...

So I searched a lot & found this little awesome tool super easy making perfect double flares for 3/16 brake lines.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/_DSC8417-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8417.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/_DSC8418-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8418.jpg.html)

Have a nice day
Gil

[Gil]

So, measured with a vacuometer my motor vacuum at idle, (arround 850/900rpm). I have a little 0.27 bar... So arround 8" Hg WITH the Venturi mod. I did...
Without I have less than 7 Hg... Idle should be arround 1700rpm to reach 14 inches Hg & have good brakes... So no way.

here is what I start with :

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/_DSC8427-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8427.jpg.html)

And I drained brake fluid as clean I as could

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/_DSC8428-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8428.jpg.html)

Very slow build, as you all know familly comes firt
Gil

[Gil]

Was a pita to unbolt the booster but finally mock up the new MC at this time, direct bolt in swap.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/_DSC8430-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8430.jpg.html)

Gil

[lucky13firebird]

Looks a lot like mine! A little firm but I have no complaints about my brakes... plus with 4 pistons instead of 2 per side it should help a little with pedal effort

[Gil]

Yep, I think it's the same. Firm or not I think they'll be a lot better than what I had...

The works are continuing...
Prop. valve mock up and Driver side caliper with Hawk HP+ pads

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/_DSC8447-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8447.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/_DSC8446-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8446.jpg.html)

Gil

[Gil]

Mock-up continues...
Wheel clearance lock to lock is OK, no interference...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/_DSC8449-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8449.jpg.html)

Caliper bolts & banjo torqued at specs.

Gil

[Gil]

Passenger side is done.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/_DSC8570-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8570.jpg.html)

Started the adjustable pushrod fabrication :

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/_DSC8571-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8571.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/_DSC8572-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8572.jpg.html)

Gil

[Gil]

Pushrod is finished, should work fine...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/_DSC8573-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8573.jpg.html)

Then started the CuNiFer brake lines, here is the driver side one, have to do the front to rear one too...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/_DSC8608-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8608.jpg.html)

Should bench bleed the MC this week end
Gil

[Gil]

So... bench bleed the master cylinder with DOT 5.1... about 10 min... hope no more bubble troubles...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/_DSC8611-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8611.jpg.html)

But I saw I had to redo the lines from MC to prop. valve, because first chamber is bigger and is for front brakes...

To be continued....

Have a nice week-end
Gil

[Gil]

Nothing really fancy today, rebuilt the MC to prop. valve lines & mock up the front to rear line...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/_DSC8613_1-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8613_1.jpg.html)

Need to finish & tighten all fittings...
Gil

[Gil]

Fun for today was to unbolt "the rusty" fitting from the rear brake line.... I was about to buy a new brake hose as it was really a pain... But finally did it without breaking anything but my finger....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/_DSC8684-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8684.jpg.html)

Now back to front to rear line mock up...

Gil

[Gil]

All done, back on 4 wheels. Now, need to test drive !
Bleeding's done but pedal feel is not really what I expected, not spongy, but not really firm...
Seems really the same feeling than when it was with booster.
The feel when I pump is correct, maybe I'll have to push harder to brake better, maybe I still have a bubble somewhere in the prop. valve or in the MC.
I will test drive soon to feel the braking power...
Then I'll let you know what's next.

Gil

[Josue]

Good news!!!

[Gil]

Thanks Josh !
Had just a seepage @ one of the front caliper drain screw.
Should be all good now !
Yesterday was rainning so no test drive, Hope to test brakes & start the pad bedding process this week.
Gil

[Buryingthesun]

Looks great Gil!

[Motown 454]

It looks good Gil.

[lucky13firebird]

Looks good. I did the master setup with the rear brakes being engaged first, then the fronts. No issues. Going to take some fiddling to adjust the prop valve, and then you will never adjust it again for years and years.

[Gil]

Thank you very much all you guys, appreciate the kind words !

Just for fun, here is my DIY pressure bleeder, I used this first then finished with my feet, pedal is firm, seems OK to go for a test drive.
Did the rear first, then front, like you Lucky, useful to have two separate chambers. Right, fun part will be to fine tune the prop. valve...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/_DSC8863-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8863.jpg.html)

Spare wheel 20 Psi max, air tube, alu. plate with an emptied valve, silicone gasket & a clamp... You get the idea, clamp the plate to the MC, connect the hose to the valves, then bleed your calipers...
Cost 5$... Budget build... Need more practice & R&D with the seal and the clamp process but very useful when working, bleeding is done in no time with only one guy...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/_DSC8865-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8865.jpg.html)

Not nice but functional & operational...

Have a good day
Gil

[Gil]

Started to work on the 88 Camaro IROC-Z steering box.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/_DSC8878-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8878.jpg.html)

Cleaning with rotating brush, sprayed stop rust, primer & paint.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/_DSC8879-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8879.jpg.html)

Box seems OK, no play, no scary noises...

As I cut 2 fingers of my left hand, I'll have to wait 2 weeks before road test with the Bird, so, I work with one hand in the garage, waiting...

Gil

[Ben@SpeedTech]

That's a pretty inventive idea for bleeding the brakes. The MC looks great. All coming along nicely!

[Gil]

Thanks Ben,
the idea was how can I pressure bleed alone without air compressor & found this solution.
A little redneck style if I may, but works well !

[Gil]

Hi all,

Test drive is done, brakes are already beter than whith the old setup.
I just need to bed-in the pads correctly, because all is new, calipers & pads in front and pads & rotors in the rear.

I think the more I'll drive, the better the brakes are going to be...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/_DSC8880-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8880.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/_DSC8882-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8882.jpg.html)

I like the red calipers in front, maybe I'll paint the rears to match.

Next in the list : SFC. But vaca first !

Gil

[camarodude87]

So much win in this thread! Do you mind sending me a link to where you got the calipers from and which ones? Thanks, Ray

[Gil]

Thanks Ray, PM sent !
Gil

[Gil]

Hey y'all !

I was not happy with th pedal feel, really soft, and brakes were not operating as they should. Could not even lock them. Speaking with Lucky13 & should have been much stronger with this setup.
So removed the MC & bench bleed the "hard" way.

Used this tip from Dorman if it can help some of you with soft pedal when changed brakes :

BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER BENCH BLEEDING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Secure the master cylinder in a vise by firmly clamping the mounting flange on the casting.
DO NOT CLAMP THE BORE AREA OF THE CYLINDER! DISTORTION OF THE BORE CASTING WILL OCCUR!
2. If the outlet ports have non-threaded protective caps installed, replace with the provided threaded solid bleeder plugs. Tighten bleeder plugs by hand to seat.
Note: The plugs must be tightened enough to keep air from entering the master cylinder through the ports, but over tightening will result in stripping the plastic threads and rendering them useless.
3. Fill the reservoir with the appropriate brake fluid.
4. Using a blunt instrument or wooden dowel to avoid piston damage, slowly depress the piston into the bore using no more than 1 inch stroke. Do not bottom out piston.
5. Slowly release the piston to rest position. Wait 15 seconds to avoid fluid aeration.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until air bubbles cease to appear in both reservoir chambers and the piston cannot be depressed any more than 1/8 inch.
7. The unit is finished with the bench bleeding process. Ensure reservoir lid is secure and release the master cylinder from the vice. Proceed to installation instructions.
TECH TIP: Gently tapping the casting (not the reservoir) with a plastic screwdriver handle or a wooden dowel will encourage the air bubbles to escape from the bore during the bleeding process.

Took me 1h45 to stroke all bubbles out from the MC, litle pita but MUST be done properly if you want good brakes, so...

Should bleed the calipers in the next days, should have better brakes ever.

Thanks
Gil

[Mach1_Ron]

Been there, Done That...Bought the T-Shirt. You should be good now.

[lucky13firebird]

Not going to lie... i never bench bleed anything. On a bench that is. I just have my wife pump the brakes for like 10 minutes while i do something else on the car. I check in every 2 minutes and whatch the bubbles rise from the holes. After a while they get less, so i bleed the calipers.

And then drive around.

Odd but true.

[Gil]

Sort of bench bleed she did. Will bleed the brakes this week end, should be OK...

[Gil]

Bleed the calipers yesterday !

I have a much beter feeling with the brake pedal, much more firm.
Also the fluid pressure @ the rear calipers is strong like the front.

No pain no gain !

I'll test drive and post pics this week if weather's fine & let you know !

Gil

[Arctic_Ragtop]

Nice project Gil. Good looking car. Glad to hear you got the brakes bled and feeling good. I struggled with my system trying to bleed my brakes for most of last summer, problem is I was using Dot 5. I redid the entire system with a new master, new lines, new calipers and used Dot 3 this time and it bled perfectly first time. I know Dot 5 and 5.1 is different but I know how painful it can be tryin to bleed brakes that just won't bleed. Again, nice car !

[Gil]

Thanks a lot Jayson,

I saw your big Wilwood full kit, awesome !
And seems we have the same wheels !

Dot 5 is evil, silicone based fluid, impossible to mix with others...
Dot 3, 4 & 5.1 are the same glycol based, only boiling point is changing.

I think it was only an MC bubbles problem, I now bleed all the old fluid inside the lines.
I need a test drive now... But I fell already more confident than last time.

FiTech TB will be my Christmas gift... Only add a little more fuel on startup, then you should be good !

Thanks
Gil

[Gil]

Test drive today : Baby got brakes ! Not huge but enough !

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/_DSC9646-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC9646.jpg.html)

It's waaaay better like this than with the booster, no more forced to anticipate a lot for a braking action ( not sure it's english).

So happy with the result for the price. I know I can have better, maybe C5 front for end next year...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/_DSC9644-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC9644.jpg.html)

Now lets have some fun...
Gil

[Ben@SpeedTech]

Looking great! Brakes sure make a car more fun to drive hard!

[Gil]

Hey Ben,
Thank you very much !

Only with these litle updates it's a totally different car. Feeling & road handling are way better.
Yes, d52's from Wilwood is their smalest update, but with Hawk HP+ pads, it really improves braking even with stock 11" rotors.
I need to bed the pads now as everything still new... The more I drive the better it gets.

Now I still have little things to do :

SFC
IROC Z steering box
Full homemade stainless exhaust with X-pipe & Pypes Race Pro Mufflers

Then for Christmas I'm not quite sure for now... Time will tell.
Would be easier if I had a lot of $, but a lot less fun !

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/_DSC8882-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC8882.jpg.html)

Regards
Gil

[bello]

Nice Gil !!

you have real brake now :)

[Gil]

Thanks David,

So did you start working on your Chevelle ?
Call me if you need some help to pull the motor out or something else...

So back in the game, sourced almost all to replace the exhaust, long branch manifolds, pipes, will have to adapt an X-pipe, mufflers...
Big work comming for winter...

Gil

[1965gp]

Your 69 is really coming together

[bello]

Hi Gil,

Yes ! I started working on the chevelle
Just made some cleaning and painting for the moment !
I will need your help for sure to pull out the engine, thank you !!
I'll let you know.

Good luck with the exhaust !
I'm here too if you need help ! don't hesitate :)

[Gil]

Thanks guys !

Removed the old crappy exhaust... Still fighting with the rusty headers. Not much room to remove some of the bolts... Winter is comming, I need time & motivation...

Gil

[Gil]

Removed passenger side...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/_DSC9674-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC9674.jpg.html)

455 in a 69 is tight, hope ram air LB will fit without pulling out the motor...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/_DSC9676-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC9676.jpg.html)

Gil

[Mach1_Ron]

Worst case, just unbolt that side Motor Mount and jack up that side of the motor if you need clearance.

[mc84_zz4]

It may be a PITA to work the headers in there, but it is worth it.
There is no RE-placement for DIS-placement.

Gorgeous car, tastefully updated.. :1st:

[Gil]

Worst case, just unbolt that side Motor Mount and jack up that side of the motor if you need clearance.

Thanks Ron, should not be necessary but was not really easy to mock-up...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/_DSC9681-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC9681.jpg.html)


It may be a PITA to work the headers in there, but it is worth it.
There is no RE-placement for DIS-placement.

Gorgeous car, tastefully updated.. :1st:

Thanks a lot Dave,

Yes bigger & more power is better but it is a pain, yes...

I still need to find a 1st gen 90° oil filter elbow because mine is a 2nd gen GTO 70° and don't mount with the manifolds.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/_DSC9683-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC9683.jpg.html)

Final mock-up seems nice !

Gil

[Gil]

Hi all,
found a 1st gen. 90° from a friend but needed cleaning.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/_DSC9685-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC9685.jpg.html)
sry for the crappy picture
Gil

[arden_dean]

Nice looking ride!

[Gil]

Nice looking ride!

Thanks a lot Dean ! Yours is also very nice. I would love to have a Fitech on top of the 455....

Here are the 2 brothers, 90 & 70°, 1st & second gen oil filter elbow...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/_DSC9686-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC9686.jpg.html)

maybe you know it already but if you want long branch manifolds you need 90° for clearance with th400 & manifolds... Also happy I did not broke the tricky oil pressure sending unit bolt... :hand:

Thanks
Gil

[arden_dean]

I have the red one on the 400 in my bird. I had header that sounded like crap so found some stock manifold with the correct cast number they sound good. I'd like to hear the Long Branch
manifolds.

[Gil]

I'll make a short video when I'm done with the exhaust...
Gil

[Gil]

Hi all,

finally started to mock-up the exhaust....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/12/_DSC9845-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC9845.jpg.html)

Awesome fit with Ram Air LB manifolds...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/12/_DSC9851-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC9851.jpg.html)

Nothing sticks out the frame.... So nice !

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/12/_DSC9849-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC9849.jpg.html)

So much more clearance & better looking than the old headers setup.

134942

X-pipe mock-up now...

Gil

[Gil]

Hi guys !

Long story short :

Finished makeover work in the house & signed a preliminary sale agreement ...

So I need to work on the car now to move it in the next months.

More important thing, we need to find a new house...:scared:

Gil

[Gil]

Just a few before & after pics in case you are curious about french houses ?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/_DSC9593_1-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC9593_1.jpg.html)

We opened the kitchen !

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/Cuisine20salon-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/Cuisine%20salon.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/DSCN0079-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/DSCN0079.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/salon-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/salon.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/sdb-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/sdb.jpg.html)

Gil

[68400BIRD]

House looks nice. Great job on the bathroom. I'm assuming that you went with long branch manifolds on your car?

[Gil]

House looks nice. Great job on the bathroom. I'm assuming that you went with long branch manifolds on your car?

Thanks ! Bathroom is a total custom build :D It was just a weird bedroom when we bought the house.

Yes it's Ram Air long branch manifolds, was really a pita to bolt them & the oil filter adapter due to very tight clearance on passenger side but all fits...

[Gil]

Hi guys !

mock-up continues...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/_DSC0753-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC0753.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/_DSC0750-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC0750.jpg.html)

Very sloooow but still on the case

Gil

[andrewb70]

Nice work on the exhaust and the house make over looks good too. Love your old, massive Klipsh speakers!

Andrew

[Gil]

Nice work on the exhaust and the house make over looks good too. Love your old, massive Klipsh speakers!

Andrew

Thanks Andrew, never heard better than Klipschorn live sound ;) Mine are from 1976. Production started in 1946 but still produced today.... Just Awesome !

I hope my exhaust will have this badass American sound I'm looking for, with RA long branch, 2,5" stainless & Pype Race pro mufflers....

Gil

[Gil]

Exhaust finished for now.
Nothing fancy, straight from manifolds, 45° in, 60° out, then 2 feet straight in the mufflers.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/_DSC0869-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC0869.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/_DSC0872-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC0872.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/_DSC0877-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC0877.jpg.html)

Gil

[Gil]

Hi all,
Tried to install tailpipes but it's just impossible without a lift... So done for now.
Just need to wrap some places with titanium not to melt gearbox & starter electrical wires.
Gil

[Gil]

So...

New home found ! We should be in early Jully

No real progress with the Bird for the moment

A bit off topic...

As I can't work in the garage, I'm playing with my son with Scalextric cars and modify them.

Changed the wheels to make Big Red & Mary Pozzi Camaro clones !

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/04/_DSC3168-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC3168.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/04/_DSC3173-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC3173.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/04/_DSC3174-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC3174.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/04/_DSC3178-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC3178.jpg.html)

Really hardcore mods as it's plastic wheels so VERY flimsy

Gil

[Kenova]

Scalextric.
Now that brings back some childhood memories. LOL

Ken

[Buryingthesun]

Those Scalextric cars are so rad!

[Gil]

Thanks ! It was fun to build them with my son.

So, back in the new garage, pressed ARP studs on C5 hubs today :)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/12/_DSC4329_1-1.jpg (http://s761.photobucket.com/user/thorboyo/media/_DSC4329_1.jpg.html)

Also changed Master cylinder from 1" to 15/16"

Gil

[Gil]

Hi all, first mock-up, 13" disc fits in a 17" wheel, added a 1/2" spacer and new ARP studs but caliper is still really close. What is minimum clearance in your experience ?

158979158980

Thank you
Gil

[andrewb70]

I would think you want at least 1/8" between the wheel and caliper.

Andrew

[Gil]

Thank you Andrew, yes I saw on Brembo's the same thing.
I need to find my grinder��

[andrewb70]

What are you going to grind?!

[Gil]

Not my wheel :poke:, just a little in the corner of the caliper to clear the wheel. Not really grind, just belt standing maybe

[andrewb70]

How much clearance do you have now?

[Gil]

Around 1/16" I need to recheck

[andrewb70]

I don't see any harm clearancing the caliper a little more.

[CSG]

I know I have done it with those same calipers...

[Gil]

I know I have done it with those same calipers...
What was your feeling in braking ? Do you still have them ?

[Gil]

I don't see any harm clearancing the caliper a little more.

Yep, even if pads are new and caliper will pull back, I think I'll clear it a little as it's just a mock-up and nothing bolted to specs.

[CSG]

What was your feeling in braking ? Do you still have them ?

I do not still have them, but they worked very well. I did more than "sanding" on mine, I removed quite a bit of the caliper.

[Gil]

Back in the garage !

Pressed 12mm x 1.5 all 4 corners to match the Corvette C5 front and changed rear pads. went with Brembo's

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/02/_DSC0013JPG-1.jpg (https://app.photobucket.com/u/thorboyo/p/e2bb9edc-8bfe-42c5-bc9d-05e99cbfbf45)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/02/1581523321dsc0012-1.png (https://www.noelshack.com/2020-07-3-1581523321-dsc0012.jpg)
Finished front driver side !

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/02/_DSC0017JPG-1.jpg (https://app.photobucket.com/u/thorboyo/p/d878ea5f-5e61-4f3d-916a-7649640ef5bb)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/02/_DSC0015JPG-1.jpg (https://app.photobucket.com/u/thorboyo/p/71b09d7c-3676-44e7-ac3f-f292b05d03f7)

These calipers are very big !


Decided to change my leaky MC with a new 7/8 from Wilwood

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/02/_DSC0018JPG-1.jpg (https://app.photobucket.com/u/thorboyo/p/d9ea41ce-c384-4693-93be-f60ce456db57)

(Well, I think Photobuksh..t needs money...)

Hope all is well for you guys
Gil

[Gil]

Money shot :smoke:208134 I warned it was a very slow build lol ! have a nice day !