My '69 Charger with AME full frame, IRS, and Viper twin turbo power

[Cop Magnet]

Background (skip ahead if you like, a lot of this is catch up)

I have had this project going on for about two years. It’s hard to explain how or why I got to the place I am at, especially from a fiscal perspective. As you all know, these projects only work out when you have a vision and a budget, and you stick to those as much as you can. Truth be told, my vision changed as I learned more about the project, the outcomes, and I made harder choices about how to spend my money. When it comes to some things, more is better, and more costs more. So the story you are going to hear is really several stories.

A little background on me. I had been a Viper Club member and owner for about 10 years. First a 2001 GTS and then a 2009 ACR. Lots of track days and lots of fun, but I never would claim to be a serious racer. All “drivers school” and no wheel to wheel racing, my cars were always WAY better drivers than I was. Also, I never engaged in a project like this…not even remotely. Keep that in mind.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/28981_1436110737332_8269451_n_zps5bcd4d4-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/28981_1436110737332_8269451_n_zps5bcd4d41.jpg.html )

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/MK4_3444fixed_zps3c28a245-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/MK4_3444fixed_zps3c28a245.jpg.html)

So the new Viper was coming out, and fully loaded for the track it’s kissing $150 large. I figured for that kind of cheese I could build my own car, have a lot of fun, learn a lot, and have something with way more charisma. I had always loved the old B-bodies, especially the Charger. Naturally, the Viper motor seemed like a way to keep my roots with the Viper Club alive. I did what I thought was a lot of research, and found a car someone else had started that seemed like a shortcut to what I needed done. So I picked up the car from a guy in Alabama, and had the car brought up to Illinois.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/20120617_195255_984_zpskl9vshm3-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/2012-06-17_19-52-55_984_zpskl9vshm3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/20120617_195235_375_zpsf40dbray-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/2012-06-17_19-52-35_375_zpsf40dbray.jpg.html)


So we start on the project with a very realistic budget, and modest goals. A Gen III Viper or Ram SRT-10 engine, new TR6060, and the existing rolling gear that came with the Charger. The car was flat black, partially assembled, much of it in boxes, and had almost no glass. But the engine bay was empty, it had a full roll cage, had a lot of extra parts, and it had front and rear suspensions and brakes set up. As it came, it had a RMS front subframe, a narrowed Strange Dana 60 with 3.54 posi’s, and Caltrac’s with monoleafs. Wilwood brakes all around, but not really huge discs. More set up for the street and strip but workable for my street and occasional roadcourse intentions.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/GEDC0673_zpsirhodrt3-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/GEDC0673_zpsirhodrt3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/GEDC0676_zps02ba4dec-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/GEDC0676_zps02ba4dec.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/25300_1376459643915_2639702_n_zpse2987de-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/25300_1376459643915_2639702_n_zpse2987de5.jpg.html )
(yeah, I know the outer tie rod end is secured incorrectly; you guys schooled me the first time I posted this--but this is the way it came)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/676_zpst1ckyymx-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/676_zpst1ckyymx.jpg.html)

I research the new TR6060 from the current Viper, which has 3.55’s and and I am anticipating using the same size tires, so I would expect this to work out perfectly. Everything I read said this trans was light years ahead of the older transmissions. The trans was on sale through the parts arm of the now essentially defunct Viper Club of America, so seemed reasonable. I got the clutch and flywheel required to mate the Gen III engine with the Gen V trans.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_1706_zpskekg5jjh-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/IMG_1706_zpskekg5jjh.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_1704_zpsndlvpq3x-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/IMG_1704_zpsndlvpq3x.jpg.html)
(I love opening boxes of new parts!)

I find a Ram-SRT engine complete with harness and computer with low miles and a clean pedigree. The truck was back-ended and from a Viper Truck Club member. So my girlfriend and I drive out to Indiana to meet the guy halfway and trailer it back. She’s good like that. Not most girls’ idea of a nice day, but just to hang out and go for a drive she is happy to help. If only I could get her to stop calling it “your Chevelle…” It was a fun drive pulling a trailer with a Viper motor in the back. Caught a few thumbs up along the way.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_1501_zpse0ae2795-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/IMG_1501_zpse0ae2795.jpg.html)

I have a good friend, "Fish", who owns several car dealerships here in Evanston. I can’t tell you how ridiculously genuine and helpful Fish has been. Whenever I was headed to the track, he’d throw me the keys to his garage and tell me to help myself. If he and I were there together, any car in his stable was mine to use. Here's his garage at the track (No, I don't live like this myself, LOL):

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/222659_1044408065010_492_n_zpskvmvkxxr-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/222659_1044408065010_492_n_zpskvmvkxxr.jpg.html)

I mention Fish now as his offers to help in even seemingly small ways allowed this project to proceed where it might not have happened at all. For example, I mention to him I found a car in AL and am thinking of driving my own daily driver to see it and trailer it back—he says don’t do that, take the dually, use my trailer, etc…Ultimately, he arranges a guy to inspect it, pick it up, and deliver it to me. Another example: on the way back from Indiana with the engine, I realize we won’t get to the shop where the actual work was to be done before closing and I can’t park my truck and trailer anywhere I know of. I text him and, of course, he tells me to leave it at his personal garage and take one of his cars until I can unload the engine.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_1508_zpsymxgowhy-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/IMG_1508_zpsymxgowhy.jpg.html)

Talking to my anticipated engine builder, Dan Lesser from Viper Specialty Performance, it becomes obvious his expertise is invaluable. I have never talked to a guy who responded so quickly and so thoroughly to each and every question. Before long, I was in so deep with information alone, there was no other choice but Dan. We quickly realize my budget for the entire engine would probably be consumed by the harness alone. We decide on a Pectel-based system, and a freshening up of the motor for “more money but a reasonable investment in the quality of my build”. Remember that phrase…

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8368_zps1fac5c44-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/IMG_8368_zps1fac5c44.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8381_zps4ef0040f-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/IMG_8381_zps4ef0040f.jpg.html)

I have a friend, Ron, who owned his own shop and did a ton of custom work. Their expertise is body and paint, but they can do it all. They have a great interior guy, and do electronics and almost everything else. Or can get it done. Ron has always taken care of my Vipers and daily drivers, and always treated me fairly. Ron hires out a muscle car guy for me, since it is a little out of his area. Brian starts working in spurts. He does some significant work here and there, but travels from Joliet every day so sometimes its hit and miss if he can’t spend a full day. He makes the motor mounts, cuts the trans tunnel, and builds a new one. He builds the trans mount and we were on ride height ideas. We talk about switching the rear end set up for a 4-link. Then one day, Brian disappears. Won’t answer my emails, calls, or texts. I saw him once about a year later at a car show, and he showed me pictures of the boat project that “preoccupied” him. Whatever, bro.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_1017_zps7f5a75f5-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/IMG_1017_zps7f5a75f5.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_1050_zpsbefbb30c-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/IMG_1050_zpsbefbb30c.jpg.html)
(Already I can see I am not happy with some of his ideas...)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_2027_zps70463b94-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Part%201/IMG_2027_zps70463b94.jpg.html)

Over the next winter, even though not much was happening with my car, I get more and more excited about it. I feel more like I want to get back to the track in top form. Something which can not only have Viper power, but Viper-level handling. I had been willing to trade off some aerodynamics and a lot of handling for similar power and much more class. Now I start to think of ways to bridge the gap a little.

[Cop Magnet]

Enter my friend Bob Stange, founder and owner of Strange Engineering. I’ve known him casually for a few years, and being the great guy he is he always volunteered to help in any way. I knew he was a valuable resource, but didn’t really want to involve him until the project had some steam under the wings. As soon as we crossed paths again and I told him about my project, he sent me a copy of Mark Stielow’s book.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_7971_zpsljsj4mju-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_7971_zpsljsj4mju.jpg.html)
(Jimmy Prock, Bob Stange, and myself)

Bob comes out to take a look at the project and brings his chassis engineer, Dean Dodge (yes, that’s his real name). We go over my expectations and the shortcomings of the chassis and equipment I have so far. I knew I’d want a four link, but he had other thoughts on the front end, cage build, and overall design. Dean started talking about CG and roll center, terms that made sense. Then it was KPI and static vs. dynamic camber, things I heard of but would have to look up. Soon, he was speaking a language none of the four car guys in our meeting understood at all. Even Bob looked at me and rolled his eyes. Bottom line, the car would not really handle like I wanted without a lot of work. Bob felt I should have started with a clean slate, and I regretted not bringing him in sooner. Bob just said, “Listen to Dean. He’s the best.”

So here’s where I really jump the shark. Two things happen in parallel. I decide to go with a full frame from Art Morrison and I decide to go with a fully race-prepped block that Dan has on hand. The frame makes much of the running gear my car came with superfluous. The long block that Dan has on hand makes my complete Ram SRT-10 engine superfluous as well. Fortunately, I sell the front and rear end of the original car to offset my purchase price of the complete car some. I still have the Ram engine, but we will use it for fitment, then I will sell it. I had actually bought a bare block for fitment earlier, so now I have THREE engines to work with. Yay.

Dean works on the standard AME MaxG chassis, providing a few “tweaks”. You know how engineers are, nothing less than perfection is acceptable. Dean literally insisted on having things his way. Spec ZR-1 hubs and C6 spindles all the way around deviate me from my Viper roots. More stiffening here and there, across this load path and that. In the end, Dean redesigned AME’s frame to a point we hope they will integrate the changes into their standard design. Dean explained that the existing chassis evolved from basic applications, mostly drag racing, and was never designed from scratch for the type of high-G driving people do now. He took a fresh eye to it, and it’s a whole new piece of architecture now. According to Dean, the chassis went from a few thousand pounds per degree of chassis twist to 20,000 pounds. For reference, the new Corvette is at 50k. However, when we are done with the roll cage, we may be at that point. I am not sure how much it weighs, but it’s not as light as the Corvette, for sure. Obviously, this didn't arrive overnight, but let me tell you this thing is gorgeous...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/myframe1_zps2766afa9-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/myframe1_zps2766afa9.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8398_zps98e65d84-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8398_zps98e65d84.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8560_zpsd20ff817-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8560_zpsd20ff817.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/12/IMG_8558_zps6db9bc9b-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8558_zps6db9bc9b.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8395_zps3b1235d5-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8395_zps3b1235d5.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8390_zps0539e42d-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8390_zps0539e42d.jpg.html)

Bob talks to me about IRS for the chassis. He can provide the center section, and of course he is friends with Art Morrison so he’s smoothing things out all the way. With his help, I really couldn’t pass that up. He also points me to carbon ceramic brakes, but first I agonize over so much coinage, and then it turns out its not available for the Camaro-based rear. Bob knows Will very well, and makes the purchases for me. I hate to sound like a name dropper, so I’ll be clear, I don’t know Art or Will and didn’t know Dean before all this, it’s all Bob that makes this happen. So we go with Wilwood 14.25” discs in front, with 6-puck thermolock pistons and spec 37 discs. Also 14.25” rears with 4-piston calipers.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/12/IMG_8389_zpsfe1b8921-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8389_zpsfe1b8921.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8386_zps94c8aa82-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8386_zps94c8aa82.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/acd1b7e5b109442ca42f9640c2a41284_zpsfd2f-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/acd1b7e5-b109-442c-a42f-9640c2a41284_zpsfd2f3358.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/12/IMG_8516_zpsb17c7e84-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Brakes/IMG_8516_zpsb17c7e84.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8530_zps330a1477-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Brakes/IMG_8530_zps330a1477.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/829_zps8431539c-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Brakes/829_zps8431539c.jpg.html)
ZR-1 wheels and some scrubs a friend of Dean's was nice enough to give me.

At this point, I am so far from my original idea for the project that I consider selling what I have and starting anew. After all, I have an engine, trans, body, front and rear suspensions, and brakes--most of which I won’t be using. I could start with a clean driver and sell all the extra stuff almost complete. But my ads draw little interest for the project as-is, so I wind up parting everything out that I don’t need. Probably made more money this way, but as you know, the downside is advertising, haggling, and shipping. I met some good guys this way, though, and everyone was super interested in the project. I only talked to one guy who turned to be a douche. He flamed me in a public forum for asking too much for the RMS front end. Truth be told, as with all these things, the asking price is a ballpark and of course I would negotiate. But he lowballed me from the get-go and then publicly called me out for no reason other than he didn’t like my price. So I lowered the price and told everyone I’d sell it to any of them but this guy. :D Sold right away after that.

[dragonfly jones]

Very cool project

[Cop Magnet]

So, unfortunately, Ron sells his ownership interest in his shop to a larger corporation. He stays on as manager, but they do exclusively collision now. Therefore, we loaded up the car and moved it to (yet another hook up from Richard) BTRacing in Evanston. Bart runs the shop and I like him immediately. He is frank with me on what he can do and cannot do—they do mostly imports but they are hard core racers and the attention to detail is amazing. I’d rather have someone who knows their limits and is up front on what they can do than pretend they can do it all and sell me short. Bart is a tremendously hard working guy and very fair. He knows people who can media blast the car, fabricate, etc. We do much of the work when the frame arrives at Bart’s shop (the pictures in the previous post are actually his shop). We get the car gutted and media blasted. The plan is to get it to the fabricators, get everything fitted for assembly, to paint, and then back here for finish assembly.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/805_zps18cc5402-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/805_zps18cc5402.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8600_zpse4220a94-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_8600_zpse4220a94.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8483_zps95c85639-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_8483_zps95c85639.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/12/858_zps31cc96a7-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/858_zps31cc96a7.jpg.html)

Some of the deficits in the body become apparent, of course, after media blasting. But most of the body was very clean, no rust to speak of but prior repairs galore.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8500_zps128c79be-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_8500_zps128c79be.jpg.html)

The wheels and tires looked ridiculous once I could see them on the car. Although on paper, it seemed proportional, the 335/25/20's are just too short for the wide hips on this car. Plus the offset is wrong, they don't fill out the wheel well nicely. These two issues are especially evident because the car is so low. When you are looking down, the wheel seems even more tucked back in the wheel well and of course looks smaller. I could do this tire on the track with a deeper dish wheel, but I will need to lose these brand new ZR-1 wheels. You can get an idea of the perspective changes here:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8718_zps185d4785-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Brakes/IMG_8718_zps185d4785.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8686_zpsb7d65a30-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Brakes/IMG_8686_zpsb7d65a30.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/861_zpsildbn1vm-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Brakes/861_zpsildbn1vm.jpg.html)

[Zanie]

Holy Moly!
How long ago did you buy the Charger?

[Cop Magnet]

Two years almost exactly. It sat for maybe 9 months with nothing happening when the first builder disappeared and probably while Ron worked out the sale of his shop. He told me one day the shop and all its contents were being inventoried for possession by the new owner, so we had to come and get everything almost right away. Plus I gotta tell you, everything I ordered took about 3x longer to come than what they said initially. That's life.

[Cop Magnet]

The car moved from Bart's to Josh Eagan's garage. He runs H&H Custom Rods in Joliet. Josh is the main fabricator and builder. He has done a ton of work, first of all fitting the frame and car together. We discussed channeling the floor to fit the new frame, making outriggers to make it a body-on-frame, or creating a new unibody between the two. The option of powdercoating the frame became a more difficult issue with the unibody approach, but it seemed the cleanest. Josh created a new inner rocker to get the body and frame together. He created a template and then had the pattern created down the whole length of the rocker, welding the two together all the way.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/10311761_725154137558944_470667714543730-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/10311761_725154137558944_47066771454373070_n_zpsf5 cde1a8.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/10250050_725154107558947_425743722156853-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/10250050_725154107558947_4257437221568537335_n_zps 0d61aeec.jpg.html)
(Dont; ask why Dean Dodge's name is on the frame...)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/1526475_725154054225619_9603871081949140-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/1526475_725154054225619_960387108194914030_n_zps9d 5c2db3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8838_zpsda034831-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8838_zpsda034831.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8837_zps1f89b5bb-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8837_zps1f89b5bb.jpg.html)

We're not quite ready for this, but a guy can dream. Maybe even sit in the seat with a pretend steering wheel and make vroom vroom noises...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0072_zps3965309a-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_0072_zps3965309a.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

From Josh's shop the car goes to Anthony Delorto at Vulcan Racing Fab for the full roll cage treatment. Anthony is another great guy I had the pleasure to meet and have him work on my car. Couldn't have asked for anything more. He is a perfectionist, and that's what I need here.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8868_zpselqek8oi-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8868_zpselqek8oi.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_20150107_162219_357_zpshpbhqtvk-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_20150107_162219_357_zpshpbhqtvk.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8871_zpsqohzxsns-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8871_zpsqohzxsns.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/10931467_10205808401752422_4116350895644-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/10931467_10205808401752422_4116350895644915832_n_z pszstjcdwa.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8921_zpsgx2nm0pf-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8921_zpsgx2nm0pf.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/10917450_10205715823198016_2629580397219-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/10917450_10205715823198016_262958039721921000_n_zp svazqhlwi.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/10356225_10205834233318195_5817003758347-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/10356225_10205834233318195_5817003758347441243_n_z psbckalw4p.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/10917840_10205680305990108_2948204896874-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/10917840_10205680305990108_2948204896874236207_n_z pse5vffxdq.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/10945653_10205819003857468_8624054227658-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/10945653_10205819003857468_8624054227658857073_n_z ps9dpazlwd.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8959_zpstlqtlhja-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8959_zpstlqtlhja.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8945_zpsz53y4uby-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8945_zpsz53y4uby.jpg.html)
(We call this focal point where the rear bars overlap the diagonals to the rear shock mounts "the flux capacitor")

[Zanie]

That's a serious cage!

[Cop Magnet]

Anthony had this Beemer mirror laying around. A little big but interesting. We've been talking about Lexan windows on the sides and back, which would allow getting rid of the corner vent window.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8853_zpsa0e9bf54-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_8853_zpsa0e9bf54.jpg.html)

Also while the car was at Anthony's, I ordered these Mickey Thompsons. At least for the street I can have a better overall stance and proportion. Check out the size difference.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8888_zps2249c816-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_8888_zps2249c816.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/1464679_10205729050728696_28053446477067-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/1464679_10205729050728696_2805344647706706853_n_zp s08972a33.jpg.html)
(The suspension is so stiff at this point--without coilovers--you have to disconnect the rear sway bar to get enough travel to drop a tire).

Back to Josh's for the meat of the project. Milestones like completing the cage and moving the car, even if no where near under her own power, make me really excited. Anthony did a superb job, and I'll be getting the car back to him for the intake and exhaust work.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8987_zpsibgkzy44-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_8987_zpsibgkzy44.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8978_zps0qbyz3dz-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_8978_zps0qbyz3dz.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8976_zpsapzgbyvz-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_8976_zpsapzgbyvz.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

That's a serious cage!

Yes, sorry a lot of pictures are out of order, sort of. As the project got more and more complex, I put off creating a thread longer and longer, then didn't know where to start. It's been just enough to keep my head around the project as a whole, let alone think about how to tell the story.

One thing I left out was the uprights inside the door bars. Didn't want it to seem like the flat metal with the die-cut holes lay just over the two horizontal bars.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/995079_10205834233678204_474361642558061-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/995079_10205834233678204_4743616425580611310_n_zps g7bxbioq.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

So, I have mentioned a couple of times that the car is getting a twin turbo. That was not the original plan by any means. I've always been a firm believer in all motor builds. I wanted something that was bulletproof, and discussed this with Dan in great detail all along. We picked and chose options for my engine, including Carillo rods and coated pistons. We decided to go with the Pectel engine management system (very few engine management systems are reliably available for Viper engines). I also opted for the ICD digital dash. Dan pointed out that the level of build I was doing was basically his fully optioned motor, with all the internals he would use on his 1500 hp twin turbo setup. By simply changing the cam, and compression, and of course buying the turbos themselves, we would be going from 700 or 800 hp potentially up to 1500. There are a lot of Viper guys who run twin turbos of this type or previous versions. Even back when I had my 2001 GTS, there were guys pulling 2000 hp all day long with the older models. Dan is a meticulous and detail oriented guy also, and is well known in the Viper community. He felt I could have a streetable twin turbo car, without significant lag, which would run all day long even on hot track days.

The build will include:

-Blueprinted Engine w/ Oil System Modifications
-Billet Main Caps & ARP Studding
-Piston Cooling Oil Jets for Hot-Lapping
-Custom Carrillo Billet Connecting Rods w/Multiphase Hardware
-Custom CP Billet Pistons w/Coating Package
-Heavy-Wall DLC Coated .990 Wrist Pins
-Coated bearings
-Keyed and Balanced Crankshaft
-Gen-4 Race Oil Pan with swing-arm pickup
-ATI Damper
-Adjustable Timing Set & Custom Grind Camshaft
-CNC machined Gen-4 Head Conversion Package w/dual Billet Throttle Bodies
-Gen-4 Coil-Near-Plug Conversion, New Spark Plugs & Wires
-McLeod Street Twin Miba Clutch
-Full Dual-Pumped Variable-Speed Weldon Based Fuel System
-On-demand Secondary Fuel System Minimizes Hot Fuel Return, and is completely quiet during cruise
-Polished and Anodized Billet Fuel Rails
-Gen V intake
-ID1000 Fuel Injectors
-Pectel SQ6M12 Autosport Terminated Controller
-Dual NTK Closed Loop Wideband Sensors
-Dual EGT Monitoring
-Dual Knock Detection
-Cosworth Omega ICD Full Color Digital Dash
-4-Calibration Selectable Tuning [91 Octane, 93 Octane, Pump/Race Mix and Race Fuel]
-7-Position Selectable Traction/Launch Control
-Internal System Logging
-Full Engine System Warnings & Limp Modes
-Expandable for Telemetry System Use
-Full Powder-coating and Appearance Package

This is the Pectel engine management system, with mil-spec connectors.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/10404416_10102293244122348_4644115599700-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/10404416_10102293244122348_4644115599700482872_n_z psrmhk4euu.jpg.html)

The actual digital dash and a cartoon of what it should look like, hopefully with no injector errors, LOL.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/11061656_10102293244132328_7874488508517-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11061656_10102293244132328_7874488508517961653_n_z psyf7itqb1.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/VS1500TTvc200012093_zpsjh2ihhet-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/VS-1500TTvc%20001%2093_zpsjh2ihhet.jpg.html)

Parts waiting to be assembled. As with all things on this project, there were huge delays. No fault of Dan's, but suppliers, machinists, and everyone down the chain had issues or mistakes. Fortunately, Dan knows right away when something is not right and gets it fixed. He is also terrific about communication. I've learned a lot from our dialogue over this past year or so.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/unnamed_zpsficn4clv-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/unnamed_zpsficn4clv.jpg.html)

Bare block:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/11046610_10102293244371848_8045525675079-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11046610_10102293244371848_8045525675079149818_n_z psinuse9wl.jpg.html)

Bearings in place.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/11060299_10102293244471648_2591357779436-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11060299_10102293244471648_2591357779436619690_n_z psprmpm2ie.jpg.html)

Oh yeah...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/11011196_10102293244511568_5862457344375-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11011196_10102293244511568_5862457344375199583_n_z psbdtmaapw.jpg.html)

Rod and Piston Assembly, Carrillo Custom Rod with Multiphase hardware 7-16 in. Bolts, Coated CP Custom Piston with all the options, .990DLC pins.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/Rod20and20Piston20Assembly20Carrillo20Cu-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/Rod%20and%20Piston%20Assembly%20Carrillo%20Custom% 20Rod%20wMultiphase%207-16%20in.%20Bolts%20Coated%20CP%20Custom%20Piston%2 0with%20all%20the%20options%20.990DLC%20_zpswunxem hv.jpg.html)

[cactuss4]

This is an interesting comment

". In the end, Dean redesigned AME’s frame to a point we hope they will integrate the changes into their standard design. Dean explained that the existing chassis evolved from basic applications, mostly drag racing, and was never designed from scratch for the type of high-G driving people do now."

So what is the current version of AME chassis and is this more centered to the Dodge or all of their chassis, you pay a pretty big penny for them and if they are not all that thought out for "what we want out of them" that is interesting.

Tory

[Cop Magnet]

I don't know if I'd say that. You could bolt on a front subframe with rack and pinion, and a rear section narrowed with 4-link or IRS, like a lot of people--or you could go full frame with both plus more. There's a lot to be said for a well engineered complete frame as a clean slate on which to build your ride. Depends where you are starting from, whether you will add a cage, and where you want to wind up in the end.

[Schwartz Performance]

Pretty sure I saw this at the Race and Performance Expo it St Charles early this year.. Nice project!

-Dale

[andrewb70]

Sparing no expense!

Going to use this?

http://www.emcogears.com/dv46/

Probably not with the power you're going to be making.

Andrew

[Justin@EntropyRad]

Serious gear, across the board!

[Cop Magnet]

Sparing no expense!

Going to use this?

http://www.emcogears.com/dv46/

Probably not with the power you're going to be making.

Andrew

I have not heard about this before, but the TR6060 could be a weak link even with the right "treatment". The website offers no specs or info except the pictures.

[Cop Magnet]

Pretty sure I saw this at the Race and Performance Expo it St Charles early this year.. Nice project!

-Dale

It was there! Josh brought it in to show it off. Still a long way to go.
I was there for a while towards the end of the day, wish I had met you!

[jlcustomz]

I remember seeing a light green charger with a viper drivetrain in the early to mid 2,000's at a Goodguy's show.

Yea it was pretty cool, but I'm sure your version will have his beat by a longshot.

[benno505]

Awesome

[Cop Magnet]

I remember seeing a light green charger with a viper drivetrain in the early to mid 2,000's at a Goodguy's show.

Yea it was pretty cool, but I'm sure your version will have his beat by a longshot.

There have been a handful, no question. The V10 in an old Mopar is not something exactly new. As with all things, you pick and choose what seems best and add your own twist. Most of the conversions used the older engines, as the VVT technology hasn't been hacked. My engine is a combination of Gen III-IV-V engines (2004-present).

One of my favorite conversions was the TT Viper engine in the Cuda that LMC did for their show. They de-stroked the motor to get the RPM's. Hit 200 MPH on the Chrysler oval track in Chelsea.

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-twin-turbo-viper-powered-lmc-super-cuda-shatters-200-mph/

[benno505]

what are you going to do with flooring? do you need to get some sheetmetal pressed for rigidity or just leaving it flat?

is the body welded fully or just spot welded to frame?

[Cop Magnet]

The body is fully welded to the frame (via the inner rocker panels which we made to bridge the gap) and the roll cage is also welded directly to the frame with plate reinforcements. The body offers little structural rigidity per se. The firewall and flooring, likewise, are not needed for chassis rigidity. I suppose the firewall will help keep the body from flexing on the frame. We may do some bead rolling on the floors just for show, but its not really needed for strength. For now, I plan to leave the interior bare metal but may finish it someday (when I have recovered financially a little). My dream material for the floor and firewall was a honeycomb composite, but its just too involved and too expensive.

[grendel]

Want to sell the Zr1 cup rims? I can use them on my 2015 Vette Z06 :)

[Cop Magnet]

Want to sell the Zr1 cup rims? I can use them on my 2015 Vette Z06 :)

Yes, I do. Need them for a little bit but they are perfect. Super light and you can't beat factory-proven. I'll even throw in the scrubs :D

[AmKenpo1]

Very nice, can't wait to see it completed. I hope you bring it over to Strange so we can all check it out.

Wil.

[Cop Magnet]

Very nice, can't wait to see it completed. I hope you bring it over to Strange so we can all check it out.

Wil.

Get Bob's Maserati out of the back and I will leave it there full time for you to play with!

[wfo guy]

Very interesting! I'm a Bob fan also. It's been years since I did a lot of business with him but he fixed problems the right way. It looks like the engine and trans sit high. Is that correct or an illusion?

[RIDES BY DESIGN]

looking forward to your progress

[Cop Magnet]

Very interesting! I'm a Bob fan also. It's been years since I did a lot of business with him but he fixed problems the right way. It looks like the engine and trans sit high. Is that correct or an illusion?

Well, it is as low and far back as is possible. Cylinders 9 & 10 are in the cockpit with me. We really couldn't do any more without doing something radical to the frame, which pretty much defeats the purpose of the custom built frame. As it was, we had to swap out the power rack for another for more clearance. More on that later. Remember the pics are out of order to some degree. The bare block was used for general fitment. The fully dressed block will be used for building the motor mounts and creating more reasonable spacing. But the final firewall build won't happen until the actual race prepped block arrives. There's too many subtle and not-so-subtle differences and clearance issues. The lower edge of the frame is 5" off the ground behind the front wheel, 6" ahead of the rear wheel. The frame is 4" thick, and the trans sits on top of that, so 9-10" off the ground. That's not a lot. The body sits over the frame completely, and is flush with the lower edge.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8843_zpsplzmnzwf-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8843_zpsplzmnzwf.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_8999_zpsfkesh4r1-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Frame/IMG_8999_zpsfkesh4r1.jpg.html)

[Motorcitydak]

amazing build! Hope we can get our chargers together some day

[AmKenpo1]

Get Bob's Maserati out of the back and I will leave it there full time for you to play with!

Now that the Bora is back from Paint it should only be a matter of months before it sees the road. That car will be amazing also. Stock appearing yet totally modernized.

Wil.

[Cop Magnet]

Now that the Bora is back from Paint it should only be a matter of months before it sees the road. That car will be amazing also. Stock appearing yet totally modernized.

Wil.

Yes, the lighting, dash, controls, engine upgrades, etc are amazing. The engine is a work of art. I told him to build a Lexan bonnet and not cover that thing up.

[Cop Magnet]

Back on topic. From the cage work at Anthony's we got the car back over to Josh's. He's a guy who burns the midnight oil and apparently is used to working in tight spaces.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0288_zpsrhsuuhcr-1.png (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0288_zpsrhsuuhcr.png.html)

The car again look reasonable at eye level but from above looking down, the wheels and tires are too small and set in the wells too far.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0069_zps997b424e-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0069_zps997b424e.jpg.html)

We got the fully dressed motor that I had bought into the car to really check clearances, and I am glad Josh pushed me to bring it down from Evanston. We had a major clearance issue with the input pinion on the power rack and the A/C compressor. I know you guys are used to your LS's, but there are NO aftermarket relocation kits for Viper engines. It's never been done. We talked about making our own but the compressor is so big, there was literally nowhere to put it. Even the Competition Coupe ran A/C for this reason. The engine could not go any higher or further back (that's not because the engine rides high, but because the body is sitting so low on the frame). The compressor is off in this picture but would sit exactly where the pinion is.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0319_zpsbm48e1zk-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0319_zpsbm48e1zk.jpg.html)

Here's the compressor in place with the rack dropped out of place and shifted to the drivers side. The compressor is huge and the bracket is huge, essentially becoming part of the block when it is secured in place.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0281_zpscxjgofsq-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0281_zpscxjgofsq.jpg.html)

This was our solution. A custom rack from Woodward with a remote reservoir that de-bulks the pinion input area and allows us to lay the angle of the input completely flat if needed. We had to compromise a little on steering travel to move the pinion outboard a bit.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0740_zpslkmyp3sl-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0740_zpslkmyp3sl.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0742_zps9cat9lwg-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0742_zps9cat9lwg.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_9180_zpsfkmxtcs5-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9180_zpsfkmxtcs5.jpg.html)

As you probably all have experienced, seemingly simple changes take literally months to make happen. Dan, the engine guy, would not compromise on the rotating assembly. We considered machining our own bracketry and swapping most of the major accessories around, but the order that these drag off the pulley he felt would throw off the tensioner and therefore the belt. Dean, the chassis guy, said the rack cannot be touched--it's a no brainer, move the compressor. In the end we found a solution that neither changed our steering geometry nor position of the motor/accessories.

[Cop Magnet]

I decided to go with Restomod air in the car. I liked the overall design and read good reviews. It seemed more modern, at least in appearance, than the "Classic Car" style of the Vintage Air units.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/109_zps9c807b22-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/109_zps9c807b22.jpg.html)

I am still nowhere near getting this in but of course I look everything over when it arrives and these pieces are quality. Take a look at this bulkhead fitting. Each component arrives in its own little bag as well. Very clean.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/114_zpsa1cfaf21-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/114_zpsa1cfaf21.jpg.html)

The under dash unit looks like it will sit really far back, but honestly the firewall is so far back (as are the seats--the engine takes my spot and I take the back seat) that this area being covered by a large dash will be OK.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_9228_zps0xqds36y-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9228_zps0xqds36y.jpg.html)

[wfo guy]

Are you aware of the electric ac compressors?

[Cop Magnet]

Josh has fabricated a pretty awesome transmission crossmember. We used a factory isolator, and he built a drop down, lap-jointed center section. very creative.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0326_zpss2fwhqkm-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0326_zpss2fwhqkm.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0382_zpsmfegtwij-1.png (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0382_zpsmfegtwij.png.html) https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0383_zpsnmc8gu1m-1.png (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0383_zpsnmc8gu1m.png.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0381_zpssrawwzd5-1.png (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0381_zpssrawwzd5.png.html) https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0380_zpswmrodrac-1.png (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0380_zpswmrodrac.png.html)

More quality parts, billet hood hinges from Ring Bros. I'll add these to the "someday" pile.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_9149_zpsq6acqswi-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9149_zpsq6acqswi.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_9151_zpscn9s7wyl-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9151_zpscn9s7wyl.jpg.html)

Pictures like this make me wonder why I bought a car at all...should have just ordered all the parts from AMD! Josh had the back half of the car off to fit the homemade mini-tubs and replace the quarters.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_9153_zpsy4q8skv2-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9153_zpsy4q8skv2.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0512_zpsjm80vhcr-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0512_zpsjm80vhcr.jpg.html)

Extending the inner sail support and up to the package tray.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0509_zpskxjthtgt-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0509_zpskxjthtgt.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_9235_zpsq57q3ufx-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9235_zpsq57q3ufx.jpg.html)

Another detail shot.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_9157_zpsr3slhtcn-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9157_zpsr3slhtcn.jpg.html)

Josh also added gas shocks to the trunk lid instead of the factory torsion bar. Again note the detail on the tub, which follows the lines of the frame.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_9196_zpswfvtn9oi-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9196_zpswfvtn9oi.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

Are you aware of the electric ac compressors?

Yes, very well aware. No one could reliably stand by any one product. Too much debate and uncertainty. We decided against it.

[Kenova]

........... Josh had the back half of the car off to fit the homemade mini-tubs and replace the quarters.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_9153_zpsy4q8skv2-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9153_zpsy4q8skv2.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0512_zpsjm80vhcr-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0512_zpsjm80vhcr.jpg.html)



Only on a Charger could such big wheel wells be called "mini-tubbed" LOL

Ken

[grendel]

Yes, I do. Need them for a little bit but they are perfect. Super light and you can't beat factory-proven. I'll even throw in the scrubs :D

I am in :)

[Cop Magnet]

I'll take it in a different direction for a few pictures and an explanation of how I resto-modded the grille. Obviously, you can tell I can't do a lot of the work myself and have hired people who know what the hell they are doing. It's not for lack of trying: I've taken welding classes, started learning Solidworks, electronics like Arduino, etc., since starting this project. And I am competent at some things. But I know when I am outgunned. The last time I restored a car was college ('67 Mustang 2+2). Plus I live in a condo and have no garage or workshop. The grill, however, was something I wanted to do myself. When I carried it out of the shop, Ron laughed. You can see how it turned out over the next few posts.

While most of the detail is applicable to Chargers, there are some new approaches I took to fixing up the plastic that I think any of you could use. I haven't seen some of these written about elsewhere. Hope this helps someone.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up204_zpszpoffotb-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%204_zpszpoffotb.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up208_zpsfgttvhz4-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%208_zpsfgttvhz4.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/GEDC0689_zpsolalruuk-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/GEDC0689_zpsolalruuk.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up207_zpsin30vhlh-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%207_zpsin30vhlh.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2015_zpsmyvoi2sz-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2015_zpsmyvoi2sz.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2013_zpsjvmayv6a-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write20up2013_zpsjvmayv6a.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2018_zps4bw62cdx-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2018_zps4bw62cdx.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2019_zpsp6u4cdn9-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2019_zpsp6u4cdn9.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up205_zpszhwek44y-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%205_zpszhwek44y.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2012_zpsjxfgsbl5-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2012_zpsjxfgsbl5.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2022_zpsbqpjlnjb-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2022_zpsbqpjlnjb.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_6456_zps9czekcee-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_6456_zps9czekcee.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2023_zpsesurmpmy-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2023_zpsesurmpmy.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2024_zpsinwd0xvb-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2024_zpsinwd0xvb.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_6448_zpsun4yaqvb-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_6448_zpsun4yaqvb.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2025_zpsgplrorum-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2025_zpsgplrorum.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2029_zpsjce72tnc-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2029_zpsjce72tnc.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

This is what the mounting tabs are supposed to look like. A clip goes through the end and the metal part of the grille screws through these to hold the plastic part in place. I suppose this is to allow the grille to flex a little and not crack where it's mounted. In my case, most of the mounting tabs were cracked or broken right off. I'll show you how I repaired them.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_6458_zps5wnllldg-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_6458_zps5wnllldg.jpg.html)

This is the key:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2026_zpsgwoumdgf-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2026_zpsgwoumdgf.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2063_zpsd1rs1kxr-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2063_zpsd1rs1kxr.jpg.html)

I used JB Weld epoxy-based plastic putty for the repairs.
Quick tip, if you've worked with too much material and it starts to harden before you've used what you've prepped, you can microwave it for a few seconds and gain some extra time.

113215

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2064_zpszrqyszcz-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2064_zpszrqyszcz.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2065_zps0y03pajj-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2065_zps0y03pajj.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2066_zpsiuonluft-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2066_zpsiuonluft.jpg.html)

If you really want to get crazy with strength, you could throw a washer in between the mesh and plastic as a through point for the screw. I didn't do that, however.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/Snapshot4102020141015PM_zps777581d4-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/Snapshot410-20-201410-15PM_zps777581d4.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2067_zps7rtpmb3f-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2067_zps7rtpmb3f.jpg.html)

File the inside part down so your retaining clip can still slide over.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/Snapshot20102020141038PM_zps6f25cf20-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/Snapshot2010-20-201410-38PM_zps6f25cf20.jpg.html)

Grinding and sanding the outer part down. This will get drilled through at the original mounting point for the retaining clip.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_6468_zpsdof2ksof-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_6468_zpsdof2ksof.jpg.html)

Quick jump ahead to the finished product. Obviously, the inner part doesn't show, so I wasn't concerned with extra material.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_4294_zpsb9bd07ab-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_4294_zpsb9bd07ab.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

For the repair of my mostly intact meshwork:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up203_zps4k77irvp-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write20up203_zps4k77irvp.jpg.html)

I built up JB Weld where it wouldn't show on the back side of the grille. I couldn't think of any other way to do it. Any other ideas?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_2664_zpsss5r50dz-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_2664_zpsss5r50dz.jpg.html)

From the front it looks good though:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2036_zpsmqkaglpt-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write20up2036_zpsmqkaglpt.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

So on to the repair of the "horns" on the grill. This part fills in the space between the grill and front bumper. This is what is should look like. I didn't have either side to mock up a part from, so I bought an otherwise useless piece except it did have this horn in perfect shape. Note the little cut out on the lower horizontal. The bumper mount fits under there, I believe.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_7615_zpsfwcez8hd-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_7615_zpsfwcez8hd.jpg.html)

I made a mirror image piece using mesh and JB Plastic.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_6518_zpsfokls7vh-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_6518_zpsfokls7vh.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2031_zpsapner6ng-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2031_zpsapner6ng.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2049_zps2srx9lid-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2049_zps2srx9lid.jpg.html)

I used a lot of measurements and eyeballing it.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_6516_zpsa72616d6-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_6516_zpsa72616d6.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2034_zps93jxx8kd-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2034_zps93jxx8kd.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up201_zpsvefq8fvi-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%201_zpsvefq8fvi.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2027_zpsfgeylosg-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2027_zpsfgeylosg.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_6573_zpszvsca214-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_6573_zpszvsca214.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up202_zpsbz3vec24-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%202_zpsbz3vec24.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2047_zpsjecj3p9g-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2047_zpsjecj3p9g.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2048_zpsdv0wiuaf-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2048_zpsdv0wiuaf.jpg.html)

Jumping ahead one more time, this is the finished piece after paint:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_7617_zpsyv41ypgj-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_7617_zpsyv41ypgj.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

On to the Charger script on the grille.

Mine was in terrible shape.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_6631_zpsffvv4qal-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_6631_zpsffvv4qal.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2037_zpszvpd6xeo-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2037_zpszvpd6xeo.jpg.html)

I bought a reproduction piece that was, well, less than factory perfect.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2059_zpsbxyissta-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2059_zpsbxyissta.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2060_zpspg5ufrvi-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2060_zpspg5ufrvi.jpg.html)

Just didn't look good. Maybe I'm a perfectionist. So be it.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_2858_zpszhisx79j-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_2858_zpszhisx79j.jpg.html)

I sanded down the edges where there was a lot of casting flash. Then paint.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up206_zps6hsej5ow-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%206_zps6hsej5ow.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2061_zps77kvtyt7-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2061_zps77kvtyt7.jpg.html)

I'm not sure what I will do with the little logo that goes up with the pop up headlight door. I have a friend who teaches CNC at our local community college. I've been talking to him about machining both the Charger script and perhaps a small SRT-10 logo for the door.

[Cop Magnet]

I sense not a lot of love for the grille resto portion, so I'll get on with it :) On to the frame and light modifications:

This is the kit I bought to use. BMW halo headlights with HID conversion and LED conversion for the ring light. These fit 89-94 BMW E34/E32 5 and 7 series. The original trim ring is at the top for reference--although the lights are listed as the same size, the new ones are slightly larger and of course deeper.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_2020_zpselhsj17q-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_2020_zpselhsj17q.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2038_zpsuvi5vrcg-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2038_zpsuvi5vrcg.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2040_zps6jljeyxg-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2040_zps6jljeyxg.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2041_zpsw4mgegbk-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2041_zpsw4mgegbk.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/Write20up2042_zpsi3pgixor-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/Write%20up%2042_zpsi3pgixor.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2043_zpsnizx7bbj-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2043_zpsnizx7bbj.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2044_zps9x0q7th3-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2044_zps9x0q7th3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2045_zpsqcpi5rgj-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2045_zpsqcpi5rgj.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2046_zpspaghghfq-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2046_zpspaghghfq.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2052_zpsb39qowxw-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2052_zpsb39qowxw.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2054_zpsgzysdyjz-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2054_zpsgzysdyjz.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2055_zpsgunmzxk3-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2055_zpsgunmzxk3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_7553_zpsjjigkkpw-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_7553_zpsjjigkkpw.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2056_zpszlecdm8k-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2056_zpszlecdm8k.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2057_zpsiempgdgv-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write20up2057_zpsiempgdgv.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2058_zps9sas69sc-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2058_zps9sas69sc.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up2017_zpsxdtgwbb4-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write%20up%2017_zpsxdtgwbb4.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_2819_zpsuadrxebb-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_2819_zpsuadrxebb.jpg.html)

Look how nice the end horns turned out. Given that I had no original reference to work from, I think it turned out pretty awesome. I will motorize the doors once I get the car nearer to completion and can figure out how best to mount the motors.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/write20up209_zpsdhs38x3c-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/write20up209_zpsdhs38x3c.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_1164_zpsyaryqe32-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Grille%20Resto/IMG_1164_zpsyaryqe32.jpg.html)

[keepat]

Nice job on the grill restoration and I think your headlights are looking pretty cool! look forward to seeing them operational.
Pat

[Zanie]

That's BS that the shop did a blow off paint job on your grill after you spent all that time. I hope its not one of the shops you are still working with, because that's not a good sign of things to come. Little parts or big parts should all get the same attention to detail from your shop.
It's even worse when they give you the "I won't charge you"....for the work you end up redoing.
If you painted that flat black at home; Did you use spray can? what brand did you use? I've seen rustoleum spray can flat black turn to ugly gray after 1 summer of sun.

[wfo guy]

Good progress. I agree with the statement about the flat black. If the car's in the garage 90% of the time, it will last for a while.

[Cop Magnet]

It is indeed Rustoleum flat black. The whole thing is assembled so I suppose I'll wait and see. It wasn't my first choice but at least at the moment it's better than what I had. Gloss black, regardless of the underspray and overspray would've just been wrong.

[Motorcitydak]

Thanks for posting up so many details about the grill repair, I am sure that many can find that useful and no amount of detail in resto stuff like that would annoy us so keep it coming. Im curious tho why a 68 grill in a 69? At this point maybe use a 68 tail panel too to keep the theme?

[Joshdub]

Awesome work on the grill! I'm loving this build thread.

[Martin71RS]

great work on the grill! Amazing how much work can go into these (relatively) small parts.....it will sure look good on the car!

[Cop Magnet]

Thanks, guys!

Yes, I estimate I spent about a hundred hours on it. The grille is a focal point of the car, and I wanted it to look awesome plus it was one of the few parts of the car I could work on completely on my own.

The '68 grille came with the car (a '69) but actually that is the perfect combo for me. I like the '69 tail lights especially as I plan to use the DigiTails sequential LED tail lights, and I like the wide open grilles of the '68 (and '70) without the vertical centerpiece. The side markers will be the '68 button-style. In short, it will look like a '68 with '69 tail lights. I think it's the perfect combo.

Here's a vid of the lights off the web. I had them programmed to flash instant-on for tail lights and slower sequential for turn signals than factory. The original style is to sequentially turn on with brakes also, which I think would be distracting, and they flashed across rather quickly.

https://digi-tails.com/sites/default/files/videos/1969%20Dodge%20Charger%20%27The%20General%20Lee%27 %20with%20Sequential%20LED%20Tail%20Lights%20by%20 DIGI-TAILS.mp4

[Cop Magnet]

We are almost up to real time on the engine end of things:

Custom ground cam arrived, after several incorrect ones went back and forth.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/10411334_10102355461867488_3756963857185-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/10411334_10102355461867488_3756963857185610473_n_z psuxq0y2h4.jpg.html)

Camshaft and thrust plate installed.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/10881504_10102355461967288_7715215411311-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/10881504_10102355461967288_771521541131112422_n_zp skgbjkxvd.jpg.html)

The piston before finish machining and coating.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/10516858_10101978437547248_5211288379996-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/10516858_10101978437547248_5211288379996891471_n_z ps7tzbb0dv.jpg.html)

Machining below deck mirrors the reliefs on the dome.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/11150549_10102355462216788_1554685769676-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11150549_10102355462216788_1554685769676563935_n_z pshrchk4z1.jpg.html)

Bottom end coming together.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/11102747_10102376165646948_5336238816168-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11102747_10102376165646948_533623881616802383_n_zp svophsbyo.jpg.html)

Fully buttoned down.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/1512285_10102376165776688_73500188611046-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/1512285_10102376165776688_7350018861104671418_n_zp s2h02zp7w.jpg.html)

Oil scraper and swing arm pickup installed.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/11035537_10102396405800518_1233236188064-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11035537_10102396405800518_1233236188064913225_n_z psqzweoeoa.jpg.html)

Oil pan installed. It looks like a dry sump because it's so flat, but it's traditional wet sump. I looked into a dry sump but the Dailey pan is $5k alone.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/10985897_10102396405710698_4352884467367-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/10985897_10102396405710698_4352884467367687763_n_z ps09njbcu3.jpg.html)

Flywheel installed, just back from balancing after ring gear install and swapping the carbon plates over. Had some incorrect parts sent on this end, too. Thankfully Dan inspects everything.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/11146541_10102376165661918_1752658874495-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11146541_10102376165661918_1752658874495696699_n_z psb7dr1wwm.jpg.html)

Front end and accessories being installed. The oil pump is built into the front end.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/22323_10102396406229658_6004207319472693-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/22323_10102396406229658_6004207319472693557_n_zpsc oa87ztb.jpg.html)

Complete long block.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/11209624_10102396406224668_4384526592048-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11209624_10102396406224668_4384526592048622944_n_z psiwyxwnp4.jpg.html)

[linkstar69]

Amazing build, love the tutorial on the grill, turned out great.

[RIDES BY DESIGN]

looking very sweet

[Cop Magnet]

I apologize this is not really an "update" but some pictures from Strange Engineering I thought you guys would appreciate.

You can get some idea of the size of the main room here.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0191_zpsgllmkcem-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_0191_zpsgllmkcem.jpg.html)

There're CNC machines everywhere--too many to count. Unfortunately, this is all high quality and volume production, and I can't exactly get a one-off piece of anything built.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0193_zpst0nrazje-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_0193_zpst0nrazje.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0203_zpsfilkuuvj-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_0203_zpsfilkuuvj.jpg.html)

Yeah, they recycle.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0194_zpsbmxubxyb-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_0194_zpsbmxubxyb.jpg.html)

I wonder if this would fit under my car, LOL.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_1892_zps7023764b-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_1892_zps7023764b.jpg.html)

If you like boxes of parts like I do, you'll go crazy here.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_1894_zpsc0ee2863-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_1894_zpsc0ee2863.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_1893_zpscd98e94f-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_1893_zpscd98e94f.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_1890_zpsb955d59f-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_1890_zpsb955d59f.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0198_zpsyd2ldiuh-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_0198_zpsyd2ldiuh.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0197_zpsrfpjpfzv-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_0197_zpsrfpjpfzv.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0196_zps0eg7ftfd-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_0196_zps0eg7ftfd.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0201_zpsimyozzpo-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_0201_zpsimyozzpo.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0199_zps38mymevw-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_0199_zps38mymevw.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0200_zpsuoql0ffn-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/IMG_0200_zpsuoql0ffn.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

Josh has replaced the rear quarters. Not rusty but there were prior repairs that were not done well, the critical area around the fuel filler was pretty beat up, and one quarter was a full 3/4" off the other side. Josh recentered the wheel openings and fixed up the prior repairs. The Chargers are well known to have replacement quarters that appear to line up, but due to extra material they can be off by quite a bit.

Half way through.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0595_zps8vqa8wfw-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0595_zps8vqa8wfw.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_9169_zpsajvrsr1z-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9169_zpsajvrsr1z.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0512_zpsjm80vhcr-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0512_zpsjm80vhcr.jpg.html)

New quarters from AMD:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_9976_zpsq4qg05el-1.jpeg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9976_zpsq4qg05el.jpeg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_9977_zpskrxhasql-1.jpeg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9977_zpskrxhasql.jpeg.html)

We changed out the rear deck filler panel also. I think that's a reflection on the corner of the right rear corner. It's straight:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_9378_zpseaphjdes-1.jpeg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9378_zpseaphjdes.jpeg.html)

Playing with some spoiler ideas. We thought the dip down the center would mimic the rise of the center of the tail lights and bumper, make it sort of an hourglass shape from the rear.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0816_zpsp5a9ytap-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0816_zpsp5a9ytap.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0814_zpsanequ6ri-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0814_zpsanequ6ri.jpg.html)

You can see where we closed up the side markers so we could use the '68 style button markers.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_0815_zpsimoognq9-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0815_zpsimoognq9.jpg.html)

[jaybee]

Nice updates. That grill restoration involved a lot of work but it really turned out great. The car is coming along great.

[Tincup]

Beautiful build, but I'm guessing you could have bought that new Viper by now...

[Godbolt]

Beautiful build, but I'm guessing you could have bought that new Viper by now...

Ha! Undoubtedly but where is the fun in that! This car will be a weapon and totally unique. I saw a signature somewhere that summed it up pretty well - something along the lines of "I spend a LOT of money on cars, the rest I just waste."

Keep up the great work.

[RIDES BY DESIGN]

how is this coming along?

[Cop Magnet]

Yeah, LOL. We are working. I have more pics on my real camera, but this is what I have on my phone. Since this posting is less organized, I'll give you a bonus one at the bottom.

Making the template for the floors. We are thinking of making it in sections that can be unbolted vs. just welding it all together after bead rolling. I'll leave it bare bones for now, but maybe upholster etc over the next winter (or two depending on when it's done and how in debt I am). You can see the frame for the trans tunnel coming together.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/IMG_0837_zpsth2kbzmi-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0837_zpsth2kbzmi.jpg.html)

My plan for the rear is to have the window be removable, and the interior of the car vent up and out the back. No fancy wind tunnel testing but I hope this creates some downforce if anything. I kind of hate to cover that roll cage rear section...it is pretty.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/IMG_0838_zps0b6l1cc2-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0838_zps0b6l1cc2.jpg.html)

Rear package tray template.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/IMG_0839_zpsafxliyq3-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0839_zpsafxliyq3.jpg.html)

Since the rocker panel is not needed for any structural support or rigidity, we decided to make access panels and we will run fuel back and forth and brake lines down the one side, electrical down the other.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/IMG_0841_zpsiimtc98k-1.png (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0841_zpsiimtc98k.png.html)

I found these awesome repro tail lights (bottom compared to original, top) at Van's. The originals were not bad but just not up to snuff with the rest of the car. I also got the sequential LED tail lights and will set up a test board in the next week or two. Waiting on the side LED markers so I can make sure everything works together. So far I have the Hot Rod wires and fusebox that came with the car. Given that the engine, computer, fans, fuel pumps, etc are self contained systems through their own harness and the Pectel, I am not sure I need anything fancier. This would just be for lights, door poppers, climate control, windows, etc. I am looking into some more modern options, though. Hopefully I can get some video up soon of the tail lights at work.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/IMG_0872_zpscaopiqpn-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_0872_zpscaopiqpn.jpg.html)

The engine is nearing completion. I should have finished pics soon.
Custom made new design head gaskets.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/11227563_10102471401154228_5634115930034-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11227563_10102471401154228_5634115930034533051_n_z psnlvbqght.jpg.html)

Heads on.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/11400975_10102471401234068_8850836759294-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11400975_10102471401234068_8850836759294972256_n_z psvfmysap0.jpg.html)

Trial fitting the intake and fuel rail.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/11407317_10102471401288958_7403328141992-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11407317_10102471401288958_7403328141992221894_n_z pskr0mwb0p.jpg.html)

Remember how I was saying you couldn't really relocate the PS or AC pump? Here is a shot of the finished front end. You can see how the accessories and their mounting brackets are literally built into the engine. The mounting points are cast in, and the accessories become almost structural members of the block. Anyway, you can see why the idea of moving stuff around got hairy real fast. Believe me we looked into it, and it's never been done.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/11257317_10102471401164208_3109664929591-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11257317_10102471401164208_3109664929591864733_n_z psbemetaj1.jpg.html)

Here's a picture of my very understanding girlfriend, and some new friends from last weekend.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/FullSizeRender_zpsbll4ln2r-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Girls/FullSizeRender_zpsbll4ln2r.jpg.html)

[dangina]

Since the rocker panel is not needed for any structural support or rigidity, we decided to make access panels and we will run fuel back and forth and brake lines down the one side, electrical down the other.

I love this idea, I can't wait to see how it turns out!

[Cop Magnet]

Thanks! The idea is to tuck the exhaust within the height of the frame rails, and have a full belly pan. Every way we can clean up the underside of the car makes this happen more easily.

[RIDES BY DESIGN]

very nice

[Stg1Regal]

Awesome build you got going there!!

Always wanted to do a Pro-Touring General Lee , with a full frame , Modern Hemi , IRS rear end, and full cage.... sounds you got all that covered.. I like!! Thumbs up.

After I win the lottery these Additional features would added like a fully blacked grille with some type of screen or slats that way the lights would shine through so no headlight doors, all blacked out just the chrome trim.
http://orig09.deviantart.net/ee64/f/2007/205/d/3/silver___69_charger_iii_by_americanmuscle.jpg

plus twin fuel doors !!
http://image.hotrod.com/f/9532954+w660+h495+q80+re0+cr1/mopp_0712_02_z%2b1969_dodge_charger_pro_touring%2b rear.jpg
http://image.hotrod.com/f/9532960+w660+h495+q80+re0+cr1/mopp_0712_10_z%2b1969_dodge_charger_pro_touring%2b trunk.jpg

[Cop Magnet]

I saw that twin fender fuel cap car online and had a similar idea. However, I would have used it for the remote fill of a dry sump oil reservoir. That would have been badass. The dry sump was just too much $. Everything for a Viper costs at least 3x normal prices, the pan alone is $5k.

[Cop Magnet]

We've been in a relative holding pattern for this bad boy. It is waiting on some trim pieces and a oil filter block off plate to be machined and anodized. Should be arriving in about two weeks.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/near20finished_zpsgiydimqq-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/near%20finished_zpsgiydimqq.jpg.html)

Fuel cell from Harmon with two pumps/pickups should be arriving soon also.

[Bob in St. Louis]

Your attention to detail is amazing. That's going to be a sweet car.

[Motown 454]

Awesome job on the grill, Hell the whole car is awesome. Great write up on your progress.

[Cop Magnet]

OK! Finally got the artist's rendering of what the car should look like. This would be gloss white, a dark grey, and a dark red or maroon stripe with black accent stripe. We went back and forth on a lot of details and you know how the hours add up. So, although a lot of details I can tell you won't be exactly like this, I wanted to nail down the color scheme and major components. Once the car is finished, I can have Murray rework the rendering to look like the actual car. I think we have enough to work with here as far as a general blueprint. I think it looks great; pays homage to the original lines, some modern details, plus a little nod to the newer generation of Chargers, Challengers, and of course the Viper with the ACR-style stripe.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/charger_white_03_zpskjraf6te-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Ideas/charger_white_03_zpskjraf6te.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/rear_white_03_zps6ldbxcnp-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Ideas/rear_white_03_zps6ldbxcnp.jpg.html)

Almost forgot to mention the little dig to the Corvette guys with the 5 exhaust trumpets--it's a Z06 plus 1.
Laugh now but when flames are shooting out, you'll take notice...

Any recommendations on wheels? I need two sets, one for the big Mickey Thompsons for the street/strip, and one for the Michelin Pilots for the track. For the Michelins I'll need a lot of negative offset (remember how badly they fill the wheel wells).
I was thinking of these for the street, the centers matching the gray on the hood and roof. I am not averse to a little chrome, but there won't be a lot on the car overall:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/L59SMagS_Front_zps96t0quy4-1.png (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Ideas/L59S-MagS_Front_zps96t0quy4.png.html)

[Motown 454]

I like the design of the paint scheme with those colors. Nice job.

[Onebad78ta]

Awsome ,,,,,very nice

[Cop Magnet]

Well, the engine arrived a few weeks ago. It's been installed. Here are a few pics. First one is the wiring harness, which is complex as you'd expect to interface the V-10 with the Pectel and ICD digital dash. Everything is MIL-spec connected and epoxy resin shrink wrapped for good.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/11816896_10102561791925398_7673594970334-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11816896_10102561791925398_7673594970334852948_n_z ps5kbd3b4a.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/11224007_10102561792090068_5207517422900-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11224007_10102561792090068_5207517422900441234_n_z psmvpojtlh.jpg.html)

"Quick" disconnect fuel fitting, so we can get the engine in and out as a module. Unfortunately, only available in purple. Won't really show, though. Every fastener is ARP.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/11825816_10102561792494258_5380924175269-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11825816_10102561792494258_5380924175269603755_n_z pssepjsg2w.jpg.html)

Custom built oil filter bypass. It has to be fairly tall to circulate the oil back without any restriction whatosever. The oil cooler lines will house a remote oil filter or two.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/11825838_10102561791611028_5588040507537-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11825838_10102561791611028_5588040507537345530_n_z psann3aspo.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

Un-crating the engine. Whoo-HOOO!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/11880525_10204679972150282_7665595475978-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11880525_10204679972150282_7665595475978610718_n_z psdlfaoph0.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/11760041_10102561793122998_6206731800464-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11760041_10102561793122998_6206731800464474823_n_z ps8wewllqn.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/11828820_10102561793367508_6644235585309-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11828820_10102561793367508_664423558530949561_n_zp sgnuuou5d.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/11811387_10102561793172898_2677911270532-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/11811387_10102561793172898_2677911270532371430_n_z ps8rcd7ynm.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9470_zpse7u8r2kb-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/IMG_9470_zpse7u8r2kb.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9469_zps7te3ovuj-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/IMG_9469_zps7te3ovuj.jpg.html)

This is the top of the intake under that plastic protective wrap.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9466_zpsg6muhesj-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/IMG_9466_zpsg6muhesj.jpg.html)

I dig the shot of the valley. It's like the Church of Viper Power.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9476_zpsnu5bf4vj-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/IMG_9476_zpsnu5bf4vj.jpg.html)

The quality of the build is amazing, and of course the detail and finish are worlds beyond the old Gen III motor I was first using.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9492_zpsu3yelpsk-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/IMG_9492_zpsu3yelpsk.jpg.html)

Wiggins style clamps for the intake tubes.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9488_zpslgn2tred-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/New%20Engine/IMG_9488_zpslgn2tred.jpg.html)

The engine has been covered in plastic, all electrical connectors sealed, and taped up cardboard and blanketing. This is hopefully the last we'll see of it till final installation.

[Cop Magnet]

Engine is in the car. The cowl intake will need to be trimmed a little. The body is so low on the frame, there's barely any clearance.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9504_zps3podty88-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9504_zps3podty88.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9502_zps5ynhxbmu-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9502_zps5ynhxbmu.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9543_zpsmjtbzvol-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9543_zpsmjtbzvol.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9516_zpszxwyzqqe-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9516_zpszxwyzqqe.jpg.html)

This is how we dealt with the rack clearance issue. Looks like everything should work out.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9514_zpsm0gy5qxw-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9514_zpsm0gy5qxw.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9512_zpsxxcljg50-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9512_zpsxxcljg50.jpg.html)

Everything lines up nicely so far, but we still have to get a big brake booster and of course the pedal set to line up. So many moving parts have to come together exactly for it to work nicely. As a first timer doing this I can say it's pretty stressful, but I know it will all work out!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9519_zpswram6gd3-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9519_zpswram6gd3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9507_zpsdkcllla0-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9507_zpsdkcllla0.jpg.html)

Hopefully, we can squeeze the factory collectors in there and reroute the exhaust to feed the turbo's. This might be the one factory part of any car left when we are done, LOL.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9541_zpsx7ftq4da-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9541_zpsx7ftq4da.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

We have the Harmon fuel cell mocked up. I will probably have it drop down some. Again, the car is pretty low, so with the bottom of the cell almost even with the bottom of the frame rails, it's just a couple inches above the differential housing. I have to admit, I like the idea of it peaking out form under a little, plus it lowers CG all that much more.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9532_zpscaicykj8-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9532_zpscaicykj8.jpg.html)

We are using a 30 gallon fuel cell...pretty big but expecting single digit MPG and I don't want to squeeze in and out of that cage at the pumps every 10 minutes.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9533_zpsx6fvyoug-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9533_zpsx6fvyoug.jpg.html)

We're using two pumps, the first a stock Viper. This is a Walbro 255 specific to this car, not the same as off-the-shelf. It has a built in lift pump that works very well to draw from outside the collector, and fill it at all times giving the the highest pickup reliability. This allows for a 0.5-1.0 gallon surge vertically over the pump, regardless of actual tank level. Viper fuel pump failures and starvation issues are practically unheard of except when you're driving on fumes. This is the main pump running all the time through a -8AN fitting. The second is an in tank Eliminator pumping -10 on-demand only. Fuel return will be -8. This set up should run quiet until you are really on the gas.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9529_zps6zkpgbzo-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9529_zps6zkpgbzo.jpg.html)

Jim at Harmon Racing Cells was a great guy to work with. He and Dan Lesser from Viper Specialty Performance went back and forth MANY times via email until they hammered down this design. It's fun to get two engineering types to go at it about what's best while you sit back and listen :bananna2:

[andrewb70]

Man...you got some really fancy hardware there!!! Thirty gallons is about 200 pounds of fuel...

Andrew

[Godbolt]

Awesome!

[ill steez]

Any recommendations on wheels? I need two sets, one for the big Mickey Thompsons for the street/strip, and one for the Michelin Pilots for the track. For the Michelins I'll need a lot of negative offset (remember how badly they fill the wheel wells).
I was thinking of these for the street, the centers matching the gray on the hood and roof. I am not averse to a little chrome, but there won't be a lot on the car overall:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/L59SMagS_Front_zps96t0quy4-1.png (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Ideas/L59S-MagS_Front_zps96t0quy4.png.html)


This is an absolutely amazing build - you gotta do something special for the wheels!! Off the shelf billet specialties torque thrusts just wont do.

Maybe consider getting some forged 3 piece or monoblock wheels from Rotiform, Forgeline, fifteen52, or HRE? You can get them in essentially any color, width, and offset you'd want.

http://www.rotiform.com/wheels.cfm

116796

http://www.forgeline.com/main-products/one-piece-monoblock/

116797

[Josh@Ridetech]

Love those Rotiform's!

[Cop Magnet]

I actually like the retro look of those wheels! I don't want the whole car to be so altered that nothing is recognizable (yeah, too late for that, LOL), so I want some homage to the musclecar roots. At least for the street wheels.

I'm still open, though, The one thing they don't have is a separate lip for polishing. What I was thinking was grey centers like the hood, black chrome or gloss black for the tub, and a chromed or polished lip. Haven't found anything quite like that. I like the polished lip because it shows off the size of the rim.

The track wheels will have to be lighter, stronger, and have more negative offset (being much narrower). I'll go with something altogether different there. Forgelines would certainly fit the bill.

[KB Camaro]

awesome build, i have a gen v viper and love what you are doing!

[twov8sandat4]

Everything lines up nicely so far, but we still have to get a big brake booster and of course the pedal set to line up. So many moving parts have to come together exactly for it to work nicely. As a first timer doing this I can say it's pretty stressful, but I know it will all work out!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9519_zpswram6gd3-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9519_zpswram6gd3.jpg.html)



Can you use something like this if room is at a premium in the engine compartment? http://www.wilwood.com/Pedals/Pedals.aspx

Amazing build and workmanship btw. You have combined three of my favorites (Charger, Viper, and turbos) into one build :headbang:

[andrewb70]

Why go with power brakes? Manual brakes work great and will package a lot easier in the space that you have.

Andrew

[ill steez]

I actually like the retro look of those wheels! I don't want the whole car to be so altered that nothing is recognizable (yeah, too late for that, LOL), so I want some homage to the musclecar roots. At least for the street wheels.

I'm still open, though, The one thing they don't have is a separate lip for polishing. What I was thinking was grey centers like the hood, black chrome or gloss black for the tub, and a chromed or polished lip. Haven't found anything quite like that. I like the polished lip because it shows off the size of the rim.

The track wheels will have to be lighter, stronger, and have more negative offset (being much narrower). I'll go with something altogether different there. Forgelines would certainly fit the bill.

You can actually have the wheels configured in almost any way you want - with or without a lip, etc. The ones pictured were reverse drop centers with hidden hardware, but you could do a similar wheel with exposed hardware and stepped lips.

Rotiform has a few slightly more vintage looking options as well, and there are definitely a number of other options from similar companies that fit the classic theme. It's just such a beautiful build - the right set of wheels would really set it off.

116833

[Cop Magnet]

Can you use something like this if room is at a premium in the engine compartment? http://www.wilwood.com/Pedals/Pedals.aspx

This is the actual Wilwood pedal set that I have. The throttle is a DBW Mopar item from Lokar. Similar to below but black anodized.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/34011295lg-1.jpg https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif


Amazing build and workmanship btw. You have combined three of my favorites (Charger, Viper, and turbos) into one build :headbang:

Thank you, sir!


Why go with power brakes? Manual brakes work great and will package a lot easier in the space that you have.

Andrew

This will be a fairly heavy car when all is said and done, the car will do a lot of braking in it's intended road course use, and I have skinny old man legs!


You can actually have the wheels configured in almost any way you want - with or without a lip, etc. The ones pictured were reverse drop centers with hidden hardware, but you could do a similar wheel with exposed hardware and stepped lips.

Rotiform has a few slightly more vintage looking options as well, and there are definitely a number of other options from similar companies that fit the classic theme. It's just such a beautiful build - the right set of wheels would really set it off.

116833

Thanks, I will check into it!

[Tincup]

Just an FYI, that 3M yellow tape does not peel off cleanly after an extended stay. Might want to switch to the blue low tac tape.

[Cop Magnet]

Just an FYI, that 3M yellow tape does not peel off cleanly after an extended stay. Might want to switch to the blue low tac tape.

Blue is what I used on the wheels etc before it went to Josh's. He has been using the yellow. I will pass it on, thanks.

[Cop Magnet]

Couple quick pictures of the rack mount coming together. After doing all the calculations and talking to AME, Dean Dodge, and Woodward, Josh designed and plasma cut this piece.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/FullSizeRender8_zpswv9xbjfn-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/FullSizeRender8_zpswv9xbjfn.jpg.html)

Exact centering and leveling.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/FullSizeRender7_zps6q3kfdyo-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/FullSizeRender7_zps6q3kfdyo.jpg.html)

Mounted and in place.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/FullSizeRender6_zpsfbjfgfl0-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/FullSizeRender6_zpsfbjfgfl0.jpg.html)

He has also developed his own dies for the window frame to be moved inward and the "floor" raised for flush mounted glass.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/11923220_10204709148439671_5630569927849-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/11923220_10204709148439671_5630569927849363056_n_z psisgnqgf2.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/FullSizeRender2_zpsxz7oaesl-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/FullSizeRender2_zpsxz7oaesl.jpg.html)

Test piece created.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/FullSizeRender3_zpshyrrzdsj-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/FullSizeRender3_zpshyrrzdsj.jpg.html)

This is how it will fit in.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/FullSizeRender4_zpsjauwiqbb-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/FullSizeRender4_zpsjauwiqbb.jpg.html)

Creating a "visor" to follow the shape of the windshield upper portion, which will then be worked through the dies.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/FullSizeRender1_zpsgcqtgpmi-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/FullSizeRender1_zpsgcqtgpmi.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

Couple of quick pics to update you guys on the progress on the flush mounted glass. Josh really went to town in fabricating this up. Instead of just building up the base channel, he cut out and re-formed the roof edge and A-pillars completely. The glass fits perfectly, but we are worried about anything happening to it. If this breaks or chips--and he's had this in and out maybe 40 times--well, you get the idea...

Here's the new A-pillar front edge:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9560_zps4gf5ppoy-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9560_zps4gf5ppoy.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9561_zpscat7ay3p-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9561_zpscat7ay3p.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9562_zpsusmp1qdt-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9562_zpsusmp1qdt.jpg.html)

The roof line is complicated. The inner and outer lip have to come together where the glass meets to look decent. So we cut out the inner and outer sheetmetal and will replace it.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9565_zpslbiypfvs-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9565_zpslbiypfvs.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9567_zps50y4vj9c-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9567_zps50y4vj9c.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9568_zpsylreaajl-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9568_zpsylreaajl.jpg.html)

This is the new inside leading edge for the glass.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9572_zps9kgshyrz-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9572_zps9kgshyrz.jpg.html)

And this is the new roof leading edge. Josh reproduced the curvature and everything from scratch. The lip at the bottom of this, and the lip on the piece above will be what the glass sits directly on.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9573_zpsbmzqmlsw-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9573_zpsbmzqmlsw.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9574_zpspxhktgc4-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9574_zpspxhktgc4.jpg.html)

Doing the same thing for the rear glass, which should be much less complicated.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9570_zps8xvojjdz-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9570_zps8xvojjdz.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_9569_zpsqzyrixom-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Charger%20Body/IMG_9569_zpsqzyrixom.jpg.html)

[Sasha]

Awesome build, though I would say this is way out of budget for about 95% of the people on these forums.. )))

[Cop Magnet]

Awesome build, though I would say this is way out of budget for about 95% of the people on these forums.. )))

What I am trying to do here is probably on par with what most major shops take on. They have resources, sponsorship, advertising, and the product they produce in the end pays dividends for them as far as business coming into their shop in the future. I have none of that, nor do I have the skills or space to do much of this myself. Problem is, I am not made out of money either. I won't lie and say this has been easy, and in a way I can't wait for it to be over simply from the financial end of things. I also won't lie and say I am in the poor house. I hope my posts have not sounded douche-like.

The fact is I probably envy the basic fabrication skills of the 95% of people on this forum who can DIY as much as they envy a project that's beyond the budget of that same 95%.

[Mach1_Ron]

Quote Originally Posted by andrewb70 View Post

Why go with power brakes? Manual brakes work great and will package a lot easier in the space that you have.

Andrew

This will be a fairly heavy car when all is said and done, the car will do a lot of braking in it's intended road course use, and I have skinny old man legs!



Something to remember is once you get the correct MC bore size and Pedal Ratio worked out, Non Power Assisted Brakes are Great and you leg size won't matter that much. NASCAR doesn't use Power Brakes and look what their cars can Stop like. Just my $.02

[Cop Magnet]

I appreciate all the suggestions and feedback, and will discuss with the builders, thanks Ron and Andrew!

[Godbolt]

What I am trying to do here is probably on par with what most major shops take on. They have resources, sponsorship, advertising, and the product they produce in the end pays dividends for them as far as business coming into their shop in the future. I have none of that, nor do I have the skills or space to do much of this myself. Problem is, I am not made out of money either. I won't lie and say this has been easy, and in a way I can't wait for it to be over simply from the financial end of things. I also won't lie and say I am in the poor house. I hope my posts have not sounded douche-like.

The fact is I probably envy the basic fabrication skills of the 95% of people on this forum who can DIY as much as they envy a project that's beyond the budget of that same 95%.


No apologies necessary. You have a clear vision for an awesome build. It is also clear you love it, regardless of the financial cost involved and there is always a cost. Keep it coming.

[chevyz240]

Very cool, high quality, high end build! Looking forward to coming updates!

[Cop Magnet]

Thanks! The car just moved from Josh's (the fabricator) to Anthony's new shop (cage and tubing guy). Anthony will build the front end of the car (radiator and fender supports) as well as the turbo intake and exhaust. After that it'll get the floor and firewall built. I should have fresh pictures soon. We've been a little delayed as Josh spent the last couple months moving and getting a new home and shop together.
Have a great holiday.

[FRENCHBLUE72]

Great write up keep it coming

[Aficionado]

Love. This. Build.

[Cop Magnet]

I hate to bump this thread with responses, but I do appreciate everyone's comments. The car did indeed move from Josh's home shop to Anthony's for the front end, turbo installation, all associated plumbing, exhaust, etc. We are going with tubular framing for the fender and radiator supports to keep with the race car theme. I had not seen Anthony's new shop before, but they have three Vipers in there as well as several Euro cars undergoing work. The shop is packed and my car is actually sitting on the dyno as there is no other room. It's a little sad, so I am not posting pictures. Anthony is ordering chrome moly tubing and will start on it in the regular shop very soon. I'll post pictures then. Thanks for the interest!

[67SSDan]

Freaking awesome! I've always loved those Chargers and am excited to see one being "done right". Can't wait to see it move forward!

Dan

[Cop Magnet]

Well, like I hesitated in starting this thread because so much time went by with so many changes...so I have hesitated to get an update going because so much has been in flux. Two main issues, both Josh's move to his new shop, and then Anthony's move...which turned out to be two moves. There's been literally 6 months of down time between the two guys.

Good news for me is I have been busy with relocating my office. This turned out to be a huge job with a big buildout and it was all-consuming both financially and time-wise. If I didn't have that distracting me for the past six months, I probably would have gone off the deep end about the car. Couldn't have afforded two full time projects anyway, so just as well.

So here's the car getting us caught up to date. Car at Anthony's third, and hopefully permanent, home:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_9673_zpsg4iscx3i-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_9673_zpsg4iscx3i.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2116_zpsay2bqmcj-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2116_zpsay2bqmcj.jpg.html)


Anthony created a cage for the fuel cell.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_9677_zps4brbqb8f-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_9677_zps4brbqb8f.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_9532_zpsindsuzla-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_9532_zpsindsuzla.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_9533_zpswwgrl8g8-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_9533_zpswwgrl8g8.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_9530_zpsqqno8ixj-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_9530_zpsqqno8ixj.jpg.html)

I don't have the fully enclosed pics handy but the frame goes around all sides and over the top and bottom.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_9679_zpsgao7jqia-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_9679_zpsgao7jqia.jpg.html)


Seating position:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_9688_zps0g7h3yd7-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_9688_zps0g7h3yd7.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2160_zpszzgaatny-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2160_zpszzgaatny.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_9676_zpsrkuklxln-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_9676_zpsrkuklxln.jpg.html)

We decided to go with manual brakes as some people here had suggested. There was just no room for a booster (especially the huge Viper one) between the engine/trans and the fenderwell. We also decided to use a floor mount Tilton pedal set instead of the original Wilwood I mentioned just a few posts ago. So if anyone needs the Wilwood, hit me up.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2281_zpsgo3sypid-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2281_zpsgo3sypid.jpg.html)


Remember Anthony is the "tubing" guy. Intake, exhaust, headers, and the roll cage are his areas. He'll also build out the fender hangers and radiator support, as this will all be tubular steel and chromemoly.

He acquired these merge collectors from Stainless Steel Headers. He will build everything else from scratch.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2279_zpsvrg75bie-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2279_zpsvrg75bie.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2278_zpsghiskttu-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2278_zpsghiskttu.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2277_zpsbqxvamw5-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2277_zpsbqxvamw5.jpg.html)


Lotsa hardware goes into a set of V-10 equal length headers:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2275_zpszqkjskat-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2275_zpszqkjskat.jpg.html)


We had to re-do the nicely made motor mounts from their block design to tubular so we could clear the piping.

Start:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/11899976_10204714694938330_2215668478034-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/11899976_10204714694938330_2215668478034315862_n_z pszxsmkqoi.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/11933432_10204716375340339_2966504433510-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/11933432_10204716375340339_2966504433510971847_n_z ps1xiak6os.jpg.html)

Finish:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2506_zps2shjrhjn-1.png (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2506_zps2shjrhjn.png.html)


Figuring out where the turbos will sit is the first step. Sorry for the cell phone shots.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2568_zpsqlk3fgai-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2568_zpsqlk3fgai.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2609_zpseskwsi6k-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2609_zpseskwsi6k.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2621_zpsr7uws4i1-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2621_zpsr7uws4i1.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2665_zpsapzwi17n-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2665_zpsapzwi17n.jpg.html)


Tack welded but pretty much mocked up completely. Lots of high-tack yellow tape!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2870_zpsnepbtyfd-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2870_zpsnepbtyfd.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2725_zps3xjyuarz-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2725_zps3xjyuarz.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/IMG_2726_zpsqc5kge4g-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_2726_zpsqc5kge4g.jpg.html)

[keepat]

Very nice!!! All the work looks awesome! Good to see they are back to work on your Charger.
Pat

[Bob in St. Louis]

That's just incredible!

[KB Camaro]

i love it!

[chevyz240]

Cool bundle of worms! Overall a very nice project!

[E.rodz]

welcome to the deep end of the pool! no sense testing the waters when you can just jump in head first! cool project indeed! glad your still moving forward with the build. keep up the good work!

[Godbolt]

Just awesome. Glad to see some updates on this one.

[813Demon340]

Beautiful work! Keep up the great progress!

[DForez]

Truly amazing build. I can't imagine the emotional investment you have in this thing by now.

[Cop Magnet]

Some detail of Anthony's welding skills on the V-Band clamps and headers:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/12805696_10208695786535237_7274025857570-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/12805696_10208695786535237_7274025857570155949_n_z pslhhylnhd.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/13043792_10209179065576911_7724465910474-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13043792_10209179065576911_7724465910474207728_n_z pse2bytuhi.jpg.html)


The air-water intercooler coming along:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/13096239_10209171986039927_8491706474405-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13096239_10209171986039927_8491706474405414963_n_z psj5diebqy.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/13103474_10209171986359935_8948410521272-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13103474_10209171986359935_8948410521272838977_n_z psyo5vso5l.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/13043408_10209172087242457_1960616643585-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13043408_10209172087242457_1960616643585191798_n_z ps02guphcd.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/13055366_10209172074922149_3621688082779-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13055366_10209172074922149_3621688082779509167_n_z psa9tfvyye.jpg.html)


Welding detail:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/13087610_10209171986599941_5262959212977-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13087610_10209171986599941_5262959212977953488_n_z psijwfpeve.jpg.html)


Water fittings coming along:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/imagejpeg_0_zpsxm1cobcx-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/imagejpeg_0_zpsxm1cobcx.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/imagejpeg_01_zpsvppug7k7-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/imagejpeg_01_zpsvppug7k7.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/imagejpeg_02_zpsgdujywst-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/imagejpeg_02_zpsgdujywst.jpg.html)


Found this on Anthony's FB. Maybe this is why its taking him so long. He's distracted. :)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/Anthonys20GF_zpsafw9megh-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/Anthonys%20GF_zpsafw9megh.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

I appreciate all the positive comments, guys. Coming from some of you, who I know have ridiculously nice builds, that means a lot!

Here's some better pics of the overall intercooler, plus details on the tanks for the air charge in and out and how they all came together from scratch. Of course we are trying to provide good cross flow for heat exchange while minimizing airflow disruption.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/13087488_10209352047581353_2031390362845-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13087488_10209352047581353_2031390362845082892_n_z ps80pt0qyk.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/13241177_10209337680862194_9836840695367-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13241177_10209337680862194_983684069536714328_n_zp skliyckdu.jpg.html)


Inside of the charge intake tanks before they went together:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/13266126_10209336797600113_8550909465912-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13266126_10209336797600113_8550909465912355676_n_z ps4rzxthxh.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/13254485_10209337681142201_4352920333813-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13254485_10209337681142201_4352920333813762588_n_z psrwabqrxj.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/13241293_10209337680542186_6834299129596-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13241293_10209337680542186_6834299129596507565_n_z psy5bgxkjy.jpg.html)


This is how it will sit in the car. Pipe fittings for water and Wiggins clamps for air:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/13392081_10209536239306031_6210492154704-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13392081_10209536239306031_6210492154704798824_o_z psuhjundrj.jpg.html)


I love details like the mounting points on the frame rails:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/13445223_10209536239266030_1921688677967-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13445223_10209536239266030_1921688677967462958_n_z psijaix0ch.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/13419056_10209536608075250_9463438146907-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13419056_10209536608075250_946343814690766304_n_zp sgju6i8kp.jpg.html)

That's all I got for now. Thanks again, everyone!

[raustinss]

mmmm .....whos the welder "person"

[Cop Magnet]

mmmm .....whos the welder "person"

Ummm...that's Anthony. Pervert.
LOL. :D

[raustinss]

well "Anthony" should use better PPE tig welding aluminum causes UV burns quite easily ... wouldn't want him to burn his legs in his short shorts

[Bob in St. Louis]

Anthony has nice legs.

[Cop Magnet]

I'm imagining she's posing. Otherwise her hair would be on fire!

[raustinss]

Anthony has nice legs.

lmao ok see now I feel better ,I'm not the only one who was concerned for Anthony's nice legs

[Bob in St. Louis]

Oh no..... If nothing else, "Anthony", might just be... "Toni"....

[Cop Magnet]

Quick update on the Charger. Slow but sure progress.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_9913_zpsbvvdv3iy-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_9913_zpsbvvdv3iy.jpg.html)

Anthony has built an inner frame setup to mount the inside seat brackets, serve as the starting point for the trans tunnel, and to hang the exhaust from.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/13876510_10209909161788860_8086921242011-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13876510_10209909161788860_8086921242011781604_n_z pse76lvnzi.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/13701102_10209899748553535_4473265089357-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13701102_10209899748553535_4473265089357783897_o_z psf5cdcoe3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/13568841_10209901907007495_4572831513496-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13568841_10209901907007495_4572831513496729787_o_z psmkuejoep.jpg.html)

Always amazed at the quality of Anthony's welding.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/13668692_10209909161828861_6185983517761-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13668692_10209909161828861_6185983517761219650_o_z psp03u1fpq.jpg.html)

The trans mount was changed up to increase clearance for the exhaust. He will make this removable, although currently it is one piece. We can also access the trans by designing the tunnel to be removal from the cockpit. The whole thing sits above the frame anyway.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_9916_zpscthacn8x-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_9916_zpscthacn8x.jpg.html)

Pedal set and DBW throttle is set up. We will build the firewall around my feet, basically.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_9942_zpsgdrooarj-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_9942_zpsgdrooarj.jpg.html)

Air to water intercooler is set up.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_9944_zpsjk7ctcc8-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_9944_zpsjk7ctcc8.jpg.html)

The box is beautiful.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_9932_zpsmtomcnqp-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_9932_zpsmtomcnqp.jpg.html)

The new motor mounts clear the path for the turbo exhaust. I didn't appreciate how tight it was till now.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/13882663_10209930048431013_8995496095371-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/13882663_10209930048431013_8995496095371020671_n_z psh8kzopih.jpg.html)

The old mount was a nicely built box, but sat here:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/old20exhaust20path_zps8caryjau-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/old%20exhaust%20path_zps8caryjau.jpg.html)

We are going to CNC a new water neck for increased clearance against the air-water IC. I'll post more pics when it's done.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/IMG_9952_zpspnhbvuox-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_9952_zpspnhbvuox.jpg.html)

The car has some interesting company!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/13691157_10209899563908919_7985327743158-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/13691157_10209899563908919_7985327743158188914_o_z psmg4ahw6c.jpg.html)

That's it for now. I'll post more in a few...months...

[keepat]

Looks awesome!!!!
Pat

[Godbolt]

Outstanding!

[Zoomin]

In freaking credible! I read from the beginning today and it's been quite entertaining to follow the journey from A to B.

[Cop Magnet]

Thanks, guys!

[HellPhish89]

Awesome build. And you are a good story teller..haha

[Godbolt]

Any progress?

[berdunord]

Awesome !!

[Cop Magnet]

Well, progress occurs but it is slow and painful. Anthony has done a lot of work, but he is a tubing guy not a full-on fabricator. Even the stuff he has worked on has taken far longer than anyone could have imagined--even him. The quality of work everyone has done has been amazing, so no arguments from me about that. The car will need to go somewhere else to have the firewall and floor done, dash built from scratch, and everything else built and finish installed. After that, I want to have the whole thing taken apart, powder coated, and reassembled for finish bodywork and paint. If anyone has ideas in the Chicago area, I am open.

This is about where the car is. The front fender hangers are mostly done. We will build finish panels to serve as fender liners and to finish everything off. Wiring and plumbing (where practical) will run underneath to give a finished look. Between the fender liners, heat shroud, radiator cover and other finish panels, it should clean up nice. We still need to finish the left side headers (they are mostly tack welded), the full exhaust, steering linkage, and a lot of other details before we can even get to the firewall and floor. You can see one of the header tubes on the left is out so we can work on steering linkage routine.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/IMG_0079_zpsxlpzylfb-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_0079_zpsxlpzylfb.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/IMG_0078_zpslirhpoma-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_0078_zpslirhpoma.jpg.html)

The more "finished" side.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/IMG_0080_zps3v5g0gqx-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_0080_zps3v5g0gqx.jpg.html)

Wastegate setup.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/17309278_10212155802273468_2936428560227-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/17309278_10212155802273468_2936428560227720709_n_z psut0jfcfi.jpg.html)

The beginning of the actual final exhaust exiting the turbo.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/IMG_0041_zpsnm7zftto-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_0041_zpsnm7zftto.jpg.html)

Tack welded but not finished. This is the extent of exhaust so far.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/IMG_0054_zpsytarnbxo-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_0054_zpsytarnbxo.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/17308805_10212092604373560_7379708970068-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/17308805_10212092604373560_7379708970068349289_n_z pskqi0ajdx.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

As far as the water neck, the quotes I got to CNC it were ridiculous. This was the solution. We will grind down the welds and re-do the crinkle finish. Should work just fine and clears everything like we needed.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/IMG_4395_zpssvbo1zxw-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_4395_zpssvbo1zxw.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/IMG_0097_zpsa1tbn7qe-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_0097_zpsa1tbn7qe.jpg.html)

One engine radiator, and one air-water IC in front of that.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/17903674_10212398015448646_6425166380831-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/17903674_10212398015448646_6425166380831139629_n_z psjrdwsi3k.jpg.html)

This is how water will flow in and out of the setup. You can see Anthony builds everything from scratch, even the end tanks and water necks.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/17951435_10212452372607541_2173610509700-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/17951435_10212452372607541_2173610509700454919_n_z psbhekjzsy.jpg.html)

This is how the radiators will sit in the car. Air will flow through, up and over the front of the engine, and out the heat extractor on the hood. We will build a shroud over the front of the engine to direct heat traffic.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/18740269_10211877133458302_2512580548293-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/18740269_10211877133458302_2512580548293825882_n_z psiuvrxag8.jpg.html)

The ridge on the hood will probably be gone. The factory pseudo-vents will be moved forward and be large openings for the radiator exhaust. Smaller vents rear of that to fill in the proportions and allow some extra venting above the turbos.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/IMG_0093_zps3zr0omek-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_0093_zps3zr0omek.jpg.html)

Water will go to the air to water intercooler from a reservoir at the rear of the car, traveling down the rocker panels.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/IMG_0056_zpscj5cvbqt-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_0056_zpscj5cvbqt.jpg.html)

This is what the water tank looks like:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/16142368_10211661088985945_2835005818785-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/16142368_10211661088985945_2835005818785617004_n_z psygzvvaok.jpg.html)

Inside. Why? Well, it's purty so why not.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/16113428_10211661087385905_6032157121309-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/16113428_10211661087385905_6032157121309449527_o_z ps715ndxkc.jpg.html)

This is the mounting point in the right rear corner of the car. Will probably use a race battery, so that can stay up front.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/16601798_10211756009438897_3532902381238-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/16601798_10211756009438897_3532902381238228976_o_z ps7rcp6iiv.jpg.html)

Finished:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/IMG_0035_zps8ztgm0ox-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_0035_zps8ztgm0ox.jpg.html)

[Cop Magnet]

This is how the Mickey Thompson's will look. I am focusing more on the track tires and wheels for now, we'll finish these up later.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/IMG_4404_zpskjvdzlup-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_4404_zpskjvdzlup.jpg.html)

Both sets of tires give me um, unusual levels of excitement. The Viper ACR spec tires are awesome.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/IMG_4413_zpsvrrmckmi-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_4413_zpsvrrmckmi.jpg.html)

These are the Forgeline wheels we ordered many many months ago. Just now they are asking about finishes.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/product_photoxlarge_image682_zpsaav5txjt-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/product_photo-xlarge_image-682_zpsaav5txjt.jpg.html)

I am thinking of a matte graphite center with a black outer lip. I want the dark grey to match the hood fairly closely. For the outer lip and barrel, maybe their black chrome PVD? Anyone have experience with that? It looks like its wet all the time, but not sure about durability or how easy it would be to clean. Has to be better than a matte finish, I assume, and the matte/gloss would be a nice juxtaposition and an efficient look for the track.

For the centers, the matte graphite is on the far right:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/IMG_0090_zpsznwa5vjr-1.jpg (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_0090_zpsznwa5vjr.jpg.html)

"Black chrome PVD":
141164

I need a sample of the black chrome PVD to see if I like it. I'll given them a call tomorrow. Plus if anyone has any real world experience that would be helpful. Thanks, guys!

[keepat]

WOW! awesome work and a much needed update!
Pat

[RIDES BY DESIGN]

Glad to see progress. All looks impressive

[yousef]

Thank you very much for sharing this project, the reason I am sending this message to you is because I have the same issue with clearance of the rack and Pinion, I almost have the same project going And my specific question I would like to order the same rack and Pinion that you have in your project would you please help me and specify the exact specification Of the rack and pinion That you have in your project so I can order the same one Thank you very much I hope you still can be reached

[minendrews68]

I think a little more attention to detail could've been done here if you wanted to. JK!!!!! Wow! This build is nice. You may be getting calls from NASCAR builders who knows..

[KB Camaro]

any updates

[Cop Magnet]

Guys, I am so sorry for not keeping up with the thread and especially for not replying to the Guys, I am so sorry for not keeping up with the thread and especially for not replying to the couple of people who asked for help or updates. Truth is, I did not subscribe to my own thread and have avoided it if anything. More to the point, this project has continued to get further and further away from me. You all saw that the "scope creep" of this project was off the scale from day 1, and I've made no secret about that. As time has gone on, that theme certainly has not changed. I now have more money tied up in this project than any single thing I own, and that's not good.

To get you up to date in a nutshell, I've always been a sucker for quality over cost. So when it was a question of "for a little more' I could get much better, I went with it. No compromises. Shops love me, LOL. Believe it or not, I was on a budget and had a plan in the beginning. A big part of this whole thing was my friend Ron's owning his own shop and letting me work there, hooking me up with fab people, and getting me goods at cost. What I went overboard on in quality parts, I hoped to make up in labor and getting things at a reasonable cost. When Ron sold his shop and I went with the full frame, everything financially went off the rails. There were fewer independent guys working out of their garages like Josh who could handle the project.

I plan on pushing though with this build, but if anyone is interested in taking it over, make me an offer or trade. I need six figures, though, and I have several times that invested already.

My experience with Anthony turned out to be...bad. And this problem was not a "scope creep" problem--I didn't ask for perfection or expect the undeliverable. This was a problem on Anthony's end. Although he took 6 weeks to build the roll cage and door bars earlier in the thread, he kept the car over a year and never finished the turbo plumbing or exhaust. He gave a friend of his my Viper tires with a promise to buy a fresh set, and never replaced them. He talked me into ordering the Forgeline wheels from him because he had a good working relationship with them and quoted me a good price. I still have the cashed check for payment in full. No wheels...you get it.

I met with the guys at Hot Rod Chassis and Cycle in Addison, IL (you may know their racing arm as Skunkworks). They came out to look at the car, and made notes, we made a plan to move the car, and I gave Anthony a deadline. Kevin at Hot Rod Chassis is a really experienced engineer and builder. He immediately pointed out some issues, but nothing we could not work around. I pushed Anthony in those last few months to get everything done he had promised and I had already paid for, but he did not do much work after that. I was in constant communication with him about the date of pickup, and reminded him the day before. We got there in the morning with a crew and a flatbed, plus Kevin and Tiny from Hot Rod Chassis. The car was on jackstands, bare to the spindles up front and rear parking brake, all the parts scattered over a full story of shelving, nothing inventoried in any way. Anthony strolled in an hour later with Starbucks and acted like "oh, was that today?" Here's his guilty mug as he quickly put the rolling gear back on while we waited.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/FakXlsD-1.jpg

We got the car over to Hot Rod Chassis just before SEMA last year. The guys there were pushing through on a couple of their builds before the show, but they did start in earnest in the spring. Unfortunately, they found a lot of the stuff Anthony had done was just not going to work. The nicely constructed air-water intercooler was fundamentally flawed. There would never be equal cooling for each turbo. That had to be chucked out completely. The radiators were felt to be insufficient to handle the cooling needs. This is the car as it left Anthony's. It looks great, but I'm no engineer.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/QQIPoEj-1.jpg

The turbo locations that Anthony had built already negated the idea of power brakes. But in truth, they also meant there was no place for a set of steering shafts to pass to the rack, even with multiple linkages. He wanted to do a gear drive like some rock crawlers and street rods. Since this was always going to be a serious track car, that just wasn't going to work. Kevin wanted to move the turbos to the unused space behind the wheel wells.

We went from this:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/IMG_0041_zpsnm7zftto-1.jpg (https://s89.photobucket.com/user/manic6969/media/Anthony%20Phase%20II/IMG_0041_zpsnm7zftto.jpg.html)

To this:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/fpw1HVk-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/RWC38Pc-1.jpg

Kevin wanted to go with known products that have proven performance, so less custom fab and more off the shelf, or at least built professionally to spec. He ordered a couple of huge air-water intercoolers and a big standard radiator. We will still use the Viper hydraulic fan. Things got suddenly much more crowded, as if they weren't enough already.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/LYGlKpW-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/GwXxJn1-1.jpg

Kevin has a sense of humor at least, with the beer tank logos.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/ERnDC8R-1.jpg

[Zoomin]

Damn. Just damn.

Sorry to hear about your story on this. If it's any comfort, you're not alone.

[Cop Magnet]

Damn. Just damn.

Sorry to hear about your story on this. If it's any comfort, you're not alone.

Thanks. I know guys pour their heart and soul into these projects and sell them at a fraction of the cost. I am well aware that's the likely scenario. The question becomes at what point do I part it, sell it, or push through and hope I take less of a loss that way than any other. One of the guys on this forum who perhaps is a financial analyst could make a clean living giving guys like us advice on when to cut the cord on these projects. It's a recurring theme.

[Cop Magnet]

Since the engine bay was already ridiculously crowded, Kevin rerouted the cold air up and over the wheels to the turbos. The wheel here is at the upper limit of travel, and we'll make a fender liner just below the plumbing. I wish the car could sit this low all the time!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/O3iCF1u-1.jpg

The big boxes house the air cleaners. Not pretty, but they'll be completely hidden anyway.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/hMkSy2s-1.jpg

Mock up of the steering column.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/zhq4RtC-1.jpg

Pedal set including DBW throttle from Lokar.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/RYeVSaF-1.jpg

We had the inner frame rails (non structural) channeled to be able to drop the seats some.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/EYYmR3v-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/rrYKb3f-1.jpg

Some of the floor, firewall, and rear floor are being constructed now.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/cbisr92-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/GA8XuU2-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/ibtlHXV-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/I8atBUM-1.jpg

I love me some attention to detail, like the way Kevin built this right-angle inlet for the blower on the heater core. Bought us much more room and he relocated the box to a much more civilized position.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/44l3ci3-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/HXkqLOb-1.jpg

Better shot of the engine radiator.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/LoeEWRj-1.jpg

There are twin radiators in back now for the intercoolers to vent heat. These will blow down into the diffuser or rear pan. We’ll still run water, power, and fuel down the rocker panels.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/02/ORzJ7Ut-1.jpg

[Tincup]

It sucks that there are so many a-holes out there. They all want the money, but don't want ( or can't ) do the work they promised. Finish the car, and keep it, and enjoy it, you'll never loose any money that way...

[Bob in St. Louis]

Thanks. I know guys pour their heart and soul into these projects and sell them at a fraction of the cost. I am well aware that's the likely scenario. The question becomes at what point do I part it, sell it, or push through and hope I take less of a loss that way than any other. One of the guys on this forum who perhaps is a financial analyst could make a clean living giving guys like us advice on when to cut the cord on these projects. It's a recurring theme.
"When to cut the cord on these projects"?
Any reasonable financial advisor would smack you in the face at the mere mention, "I want to build a hot rod".
End of story. Nothing cool would ever get built.
Dude, listen.... Guys like us don't build cars like these because we're sane, or because "it's financially wise". We build them, we read forum thread after thread after thread, and we watch videos because this crap is in our blood. It's what we are. Period. You don't need to have anyone tell you when it's "become unreasonable". Frankly, most of us will never have a chance to have anything NEAR as cool as the car in this thread. So having our time invested into how many years, and how many pages, and how many pictures feel more than a bit ripped off when someone actually living the dream decides they want to drop the whole thing.
SERIOUSLY?!?!!?
The damn thing looks like it could be fired up and driven around the block in less than a week. You want to give up NOW!?!!?
You give up now, and it's dead. You and the car are forgotten, taken apart in little pieces and sold off. Then what? You going to start another project that might be more "financially sane"?

With all due respect, Sir. Of course.
Bob

[Cop Magnet]

LOL, no offense taken I assure you. I can lay it bare and handle the heat that comes with that!
Looks can be deceiving, and this car won't be on the road this calendar year I guarantee.
As far as the financial stuff, yes I knew going in it would be a money pit. It's a question of how much of a money pit and more specifically am I going to wind up throwing more money at it after my breaking point than I will make back. Not make money, make back, i.e. if I throw another 100k in the ring will it be worth $150k? If so, it makes sense to stop now.
Anyway, I am just venting. Especially as after so many years of having the money and nothing happening, now my business is in a slump and the end is still not in sight. I am planning on pushing through unless someone else wants to live this dream. I want to drive a car some day soon. That's part of the dream, too.

[Bob in St. Louis]

Glad you took my swift kick to the balls in good nature.
Not that I didn't mean it, but you know.... ;)
Rock on man, I get it. Would love to watch this come to fruition though. Hope things work out for you. Not just this car, but in your business too.
Are you at liberty to say what you do?

[Cop Magnet]

Doctor. That explains a lot, huh?
Business will be ok. Just some billing issues. Still doing the work, so it’ll come eventually.

[Bob in St. Louis]

Yea, that explains a lot. Oh well..... We all look up to somebody, right?
I just watched a new video about "Big Red", that's so far out of my budget, it makes yours almost look "within reach".
Rock on though. I hope things go well for you, and the project both.

[Cop Magnet]

Thank you, sir.

[vette427-sbc]

Ill play the financial advisor's devils advocate... its a poor financial decision to sell a car like this. Unless you need the money, let it sit. It doesnt cost you anything (except storage fees maybe?). I hit a major roadblock in my own project and ended up letting it sit for 3 years. I was so upset I actually logged out of all the car forums that were related to the car. I layed awake at night thinking what had I done, what a waste of money, etc... Sometimes a mental pause is good to clear your head and come up with plan of action. Im willing to bet there are more people on here than you realize that have been though or are currently in a similar situation. Building a car like this is so far from "cut and dry" that its simply impossible to put a budget and timeline on it. Especially when you can persuade yourself to say "if its better its worth the extra $100 or its worth the extra X hours of labor" Im VERY guilty of it, and when you say that to yourself 100 times over the course of a month/year/whatever it snowballs very quickly because you want the rest of the car to be on-par. Nothing wrong with that, just not time-efficient.

Keep on it. Ive read through this thread multiple times because its such a cool and unique build. Id love to see it all come together, Im sure you would too.

[KB Camaro]

Ill play the financial advisor's devils advocate... its a poor financial decision to sell a car like this. Unless you need the money, let it sit. It doesnt cost you anything (except storage fees maybe?). I hit a major roadblock in my own project and ended up letting it sit for 4 years. I was so upset I actually logged out of all the car forums that were related to the car. I layed awake at night thinking what had I done, what a waste of money, etc... Sometimes a mental pause is good to clear your head and come up with plan of action. Im willing to bet there are more people on here than you realize that have been though or are currently in a similar situation. Building a car like this is so far from "cut and dry" that its simply impossible to put a budget and timeline on it. Especially when you can persuade yourself to say "if its better its worth the extra $100 or its worth the extra X hours of labor" Im VERY guilty of it, and when you say that to yourself 100 times over the course of a month/year/whatever it snowballs very quickly because you want the rest of the car to be on-par. Nothing wrong with that, just not time-efficient.

Keep on it. Ive read through this thread multiple times because its such a cool and unique build. Id love to see it all come together, Im sure you would too.

Well said and you are correct, I also had a similar situation with my build. Hell, the owner of the shop my car was at went to jail for a couple of weeks during the process and when I found out I was beating my self up thinking how big of a mistake I made. Now mine is done and I actually drive it once a week and I’m glad I did finish it. Worth much more finished then in pieces.

[67SSDan]

Dang man, this SUCKS. Unfortunately this forum is full of stories like this. Makes me super thankful I found a good guy straight away. I doubt it'll make you feel any better, but even with a good guy, I still blew my budget 4 times and spent more on my car than I did my house... which sounds so completely stupid to me every time I say it.

That said, and as others have said, you're at a hard spot to to try to ditch the thing now. Anybody looking for a project is going to see this as a basket case, and basket cases usually mean a lot of money. You really have to have a finished car to get out of it anywhere close to what you've got in it. Which is a hard pill to swallow. You just gotta figure out which of the two hard pills you want to go for.

I tend to side with the others. Finish the car and keep it forever and enjoy the hell out of it. Also keep in mind, just because you went over the top with everything so far, doesn't mean you have to keep doing that. I'm not saying cut corners, but maybe if there are ideas that are going to cost you a lot more, scrap those, and just finish the darn thing.

Just my .02

Dan

[Bob in St. Louis]

....... I still blew my budget 4 times and spent more on my car than I did my house.....

You can sleep in your car, but you can't race your house.
Just sayin'.

[andrewb70]

My two cents: finished is better than perfect.

Andrew

[70Uglybird]

My two cents: finished is better than perfect.

Andrew

I need to steal this for my signature...that said my car has been out of commission for a couple of years now LOL.

Cop Magnet, this build is one of my favorites. I had a similar situation on a much more mundane scale, now I'm afraid to let anyone work on it.

Your charger is insane and I hope you are able to finish and enjoy it!!!

[chunger]

LOL, no offense taken I assure you. I can lay it bare and handle the heat that comes with that!
Looks can be deceiving, and this car won't be on the road this calendar year I guarantee.

It could be. It's up to the decisions you make and the trade-offs you're willing to accept.


As far as the financial stuff, yes I knew going in it would be a money pit. It's a question of how much of a money pit and more specifically am I going to wind up throwing more money at it after my breaking point than I will make back. Not make money, make back, i.e. if I throw another 100k in the ring will it be worth $150k?

Serious question - did you have a budget going into this project? Or did you have an idea of what you were willing to spend? If you did and you went over, well that happens, all i can say is a plan would have helped you keep things in scope. If you didn't, and you started the project with an open checkbook, well, you get ... this.

As Andrew pointed out, Finished is better than perfection. Have you seen shows like Roadkill? Sometimes is really is worth it to just finish it to the point of being capable of being driven. Cosmetics can be done later. In fact, you may enjoy it so much that the cosmetics really don't matter.

[Cop Magnet]

Thanks, guys. I hear a lot of truth and wisdom in everything you all have said. More importantly, I really appreciate your honesty and perspective. It’s good to know that I am not alone, and even though I’ve expressed doubts, you all at least still feel where I am coming from. I do plan on pushing through with this car. It’s been at a flat spot for a long time, but the shop that it is at now is high-quality no question. Storing the car is, unfortunately, what happened against my will. It wound up sitting and not getting much work done, which is even more frustrating than voluntarily storing it.

The other thing about the many years that go by, is that things get dated, cutting edge technology becomes “older“ if not obsolete, and styles change. That’s why I won’t commit to paint or wheels until it is nearly done. But I digress, as I am really not in a position to complain about finish choices!

Thanks for all your support and words of encouragement!

[Bob in St. Louis]

Spray that sucker with truck bedliner, and go do some burnouts. :cheers:

[ekmxryda]

Sorry about your setbacks, like everyone else I would vote to push on.
The last two years progress has been tough for me as well between house repairs and a super busy work schedule, my GTO has been sitting.
Doing most of the labor myself that I will never recoup if and when I ever sold, like all of our cars the end product will be worth it.
It is hard when we go so far from stock parts that just bolt on, the time I spend making a couple brackets that will never be seen by most people, it adds up to weeks, then years so yeah I get the whole project creep thing.

I keep an Excel spread sheet for parts and labor that I hope my wife doesn't find!

[Cop Magnet]

I keep an Excel spread sheet for parts and labor that I hope my wife doesn't find!

I have hundreds of pages bookmarked from suppliers, builds where I liked a style or idea, and I also do the Excel spreadsheet. I have tracked every dime, including if I sold off parts that wound up not working and even the shipping. I have a 4" ring binder with every document related to this build. One day, I hope to put the whole thing into this car's unique manual. It would be great to pull out a book and look up "fuel regulator" or whatever and see details on the manufacturer, spec, and how to change it out.

[Gixxersixxerman]

I found this site by researching 69 chevelle’s. My fiancé’s dad has one that’s been stored in a garage for the last 20 years. He is a little older and just doesn’t care about it. He said I Po I wanted it I’d have to clean out the garage, and drive it out under its own power.. it did run when he parked it. It nothing special. But maybe one day... but while searching the build threads I came across yours and spent a hand full of days can’t wait to see it finished, I ohhhhed and aweeed at almost every picture. Then seen what happened. Felt bed and sorry you went through all this. I am happy to hear that you are in fact going through with t. I spent a ton Of money on a 66 beetle that was suppose to be my “A to B” car. Some 20k on it for customer engine and trans and wiring and headlights, and brakes and wheels. I did most the work myself and the first time I started Bugsley up was just a moment few understand.. most in this forum do I bet. Taking him out for the first few cruises was great, at that time nothing made me happier. I did something foolish one day and left engine tins off and over heated it. It sat for 3 years with the one day I’ll get back to it.. I ended up selling hi for 4k.. 30k invested and I was devastated.. my best friend and me was sitting there and he told me the thing I regretted the most was the money. Could’ve put it to my race bikes or invested it.. but you can’t put a price on happiness and that’s what building and driving these cars do... makes you happier then anything. And it’s worth what ever you put into it to make you smile. To make you happy.. thanks for the thread, I really enjoyed reading it and I hope I can read the finished post one day..

TL;DR: you can’t put a price on happiness.

[70B5Cuda]

Did you sell the Charger through ebay or after the ebay listing?

[Cop Magnet]

Sold it after the auction ended. I had a lot of interest. She was a great project, and a lot of love went into her. Someday I will update you all on the politics and behind the scenes issues that kill projects like this. I am sure you all have some idea of what I am talking about!

[keepat]

I’m sorry to hear you sold it, I was looking forward to seeing that project completed. Very cool car!
Good luck on your next project!
Pat

[Cop Magnet]

I’m sorry to hear you sold it, I was looking forward to seeing that project completed. Very cool car!
Good luck on your next project!
Pat

Thanks, Pat. Your car is an inspiration to ingenuity, build detail, and quality!
I'm finishing a project soon and looking to start another. Doing all the work I possibly can myself this time. :twothumbs

[Krausmotorsports]

Someone call the Doctor,

I'm sick with the Charger envy.
I took away a few things from this thread as I come here to learn. Came in and read it all in one sitting. So I have minimal time invested unlike many others. Like watching your best Netflix show season by season, back to back. I also have a 68 charger but I've been sitting on for the last 4 years waiting for right time to steam roll a much lower level of a project. I let it sit knowing the market was going to boom eventually and my chance decreases each year at finding one to build from at a reasonable cost. Well, I bought some one else's headache, yes, BUT! The difference is, is that I can do most of the work myself, or at least 70% of it. I'm no Doctor of engineering or Expert Fabricator but this is how I learn minus some Body, all Paint and some Interior. I've built my budget and I'm confident in sticking to it. I've weighed my options on USCAR Unibody Supports to full Frames, RS, AM or Schwartz. Exactly how you started. (Going with Schwartz BTW for obvious reasons) Quickly it can get out of hand but reading threads like this will help others such as myself keep a conscious mind during the build process. Remember KISS, Well, I keep calling myself stupid as a reminder when having an OMC
( One Man conversation ) .


I Hope you find the scratch that gets your itch with something else to enjoy and fill the void. Luckily, I have other hotrods I use to pick up parts and cruise and very surprised to find a full charger door fits in a Tri-Five Trunk! However, I start mine next Spring 2022. But will take me 3 years to complete but my plan is rock solid and financially planned (Kids Included) If it's any constellation, it's a 440, 6-speed magnum full frame modest build. Designed by me and my wife(also a gear nut). The charger is actually hers and was her 30th Birthday gift. So to quote my hero David Freiburger. " It doesn't have to be right, it just has to run. " Good Luck on your next move.
~ Kraus

193095