Chevelle 2.0

[Yelcamino]

Since Photobucket kinda messed up my original Chevelle thread (https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/41441-66-PT-Chevelle), I decided to just start fresh with a new one. So here goes Chevelle 2.0, AKA, The Blue Car.

The plan is to make this version a more dedicated track car along with some autox. The first step is to update the chassis and I decided to build my own (more or less) because my budget doesn't allow an aftermarket chassis.

This has been going on for some time so there will be an overload of pictures with or without comments just to get caught up.

As a side note, this is the first chassis I’ve built. You may see some things that don’t make sense to you or it may seem like I’m doing things the hard way, and I probably am! I’m learning as I go and ask for help when I need it.

This is the donor '66 chassis I started with:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38777317985_9aee213c68_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BTE2)00001 (https://flic.kr/p/225BTE2) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The first thing I did was to strip it down to the bare frame.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/25802885908_c38db7461b_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7x2f)00006 (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7x2f) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Next I got it sandblasted.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/25802885208_b0a59a3e89_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wPb)00007 (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wPb) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Then I sprayed some primer on the areas that I was going to keep.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/25802884568_6b905c41ec_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wC9)00008 (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wC9) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Once I got the frame mounted on the frame table, I installed all of the suspension from my car on to the new frame. That way I could locate the front and rear axle center lines. Once I cut the front and rear sections off the frame, I needed to know where to put the new stuff.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/25802884188_9c76eea6b7_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wvA)00009 (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wvA) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/25802883378_05a8050f3b_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wgC)00010 (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wgC) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Speaking of new stuff, back when I worked at Ridetech, I bought a front clip from Scott Mock that uses C5 components.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/27896189789_4a01648899_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6gkt)00012 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6gkt) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With the suspension mounted I was able to locate the front axle center line. To ensure I put the new spindles in the same place, I made a pair of stands that I could bolt to the hubs and table to keep things from moving around.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643951102_29c528d7fb_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcBuj)00013 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcBuj) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643950452_b3f0654f18_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcBi7)00014 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcBi7) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

After I felt confident about the center line, I placed the new front clip on the frame to get an idea of where I needed to cut.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643949962_4ce7403f7d_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcB9E)00015 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcB9E) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Instead of cutting off too much, I chose to be a little more cautious. First I cut the main cross member off…

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643949302_0c34995ccd_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcAXh)00016 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcAXh) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And then I followed that up with more precision cuts.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643948722_1056d06cb5_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcAMh)00017 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcAMh) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

After I was happy with the cuts, I lowered the new clip in place to see how it fit.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643946632_0e9bb3b389_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcAaf)00018 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcAaf) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643945582_3218feb50f_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pczR9)00019 (https://flic.kr/p/23pczR9) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643944592_6eb97b6380_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pczy5)00020 (https://flic.kr/p/23pczy5) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

After I got it in place and the fit seemed good, I needed to fine tune the location. I did that with string, bubble levels, and spacers.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643943752_e7f605ef86_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcziA)00021 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcziA) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643942892_45425b1cb7_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcz3L)00022 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcz3L) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643941972_d9ecdd7ec4_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcyLU)00023 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcyLU) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

After I was happy with its location, I tacked it in place and started figuring out how to permanently attach the clip to the side rails.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643941042_6cbfa218d2_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcyuS)00024 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcyuS) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643940282_28cbbda541_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcygL)00025 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcygL) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643939642_e062909b9f_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcy5J)00026 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcy5J) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With that out of the way, I made a wheel fitment tool because I’m too cheap to buy one!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643938572_8d7da6fac4_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcxLh)00027 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcxLh) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With my new tool, I was able to mount a 315/30-18 tire and adjust the back space to simulate a wheel to check for clearance around the frame and suspension components.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/27896188809_bdcd4a95af_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6g3z)00028 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6g3z) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38777335395_e43868b0c5_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BYQc)00029 (https://flic.kr/p/225BYQc) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Next comes the rear suspension…

[Yelcamino]

As promised, it’s time for the rear suspension. When I started this project my original plan was to get the rear frame kit from ABC Performance so I could stuff 335s out back. After thinking about it for a while I decided that if I’m going to go through all this work I wanted to try something different. During my dealings with Ron Sutton while I was at Ridetech, I learned about his suspension kits, specifically his offset three-link. After some discussions and numerous emails, a big ol brown box showed up on my door step with this stuff in it…

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643937922_c813f06a38_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcxz5)10015 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcxz5) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

After having cut the front end apart with a 4 ½” grinder, I broke down and bought this Eastwood plasma cutter. It was relatively cheap, has a better warranty than the big names, and it works awesome! So far it has been able to cut ¼” plate without the slightest hiccup. Highly recommended if you’re in the market for a plasma cutter.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643936982_dc2cfbf791_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcxhS)10020 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcxhS) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With the old 9” in place, I located the stock rear axle centerline using a good old fashioned plumb bob. (I added the red line to show the plane I was using)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38777359205_3007764f47_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225C6UH)00012.1 (https://flic.kr/p/225C6UH) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With the centerline marked, I removed all the rear suspension and started measuring for the new parts.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643936192_4f750a4205_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcx4f)10027 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcx4f) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Wanting to keep the body mount, I was able to do some fancy cutting thanks to the plasma!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965701644_8140648317_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngpy9)10028 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngpy9) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965701244_932c6f55fd_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngprf)10029 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngprf) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With all my cuts made, the engine hoist made quick work of getting the old stuff out of the way.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965700874_725ab9cb8e_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngpjS)10030 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngpjS) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The first thing I did was get the new crossmember tacked in place so I could start fitting the new rear frame rails. After spending too much time trying to get these rails in the proper position…

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643932182_2d966e9428_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcvS7)10031 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcvS7) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

…I got in contact with Ron and he sent me a new set of rails that were a better fit for me. He’ll probably chime in with more details, but I think these are now the standard rails in his rear kits. A couple of cool features is the holes for the watts link crossmember and sway bar tube are already in place, and there’s a line cut to locate the axle center line.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965699964_182e558b90_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngp4b)10032 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngp4b) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/24813753397_e329a37c1f_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DNGYor)10033.1 (https://flic.kr/p/DNGYor) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The next step was getting the new rear end housing in place so I could locate the suspension brackets.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965699094_e98bc188b7_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngoNb)10033 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngoNb) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Here the watts link crossmember and sway bar tube are tacked in.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965698644_2f4763d371_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngoEq)10034 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngoEq) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Lower shock mounts tacked in.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965698054_dcb47e032a_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngouf)10035 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngouf) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Third link tacked in.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965697704_fbaf62e147_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngood)10036 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngood) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965697214_6a2c4300c9_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngoeL)10037 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngoeL) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Driver side watts bracket tacked in.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965696614_9e6721be6b_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngo4q)10038 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngo4q) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

It’s slowly starting to take shape. You can see in this photo the back brace is tacked to the rear housing. Down the road you’ll see I had to modify it to clear the coil overs.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965696084_1c7634cef6_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnUh)10039 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnUh) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

From this angle you can see there’s about ½” of space between the back of the rear end housing and the watts a-frame.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965695394_9ef261c02f_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnGo)10040 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnGo) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I made these gussets to help reinforce the joint between the rear frame rails and crossmember.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965694864_80872e4c3c_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnxf)10041.1 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnxf) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965694604_99885db293_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnsL)10041.2 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnsL) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/27896217189_90271567cb_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6ptT)10042 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6ptT) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

At this point just about everything is welded in permanently except for the housing brackets.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/27896216539_44b140d7c9_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6phF)10043 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6phF) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/27896215739_d0c6ef6818_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6p3T)10044 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6p3T) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I added this rear crossmember which I cut from the original frame rails that Ron sent me.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/27896215119_f5a77fd41e_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6oSc)10045 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6oSc) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[Yelcamino]

With all that done, it was time to connect the original frame horns to the new rails. They didn’t turn out quite as pretty as I imagined them, but they’re pretty sturdy and put both bumpers where they should be.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643921522_04d583b051_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcsGj)10046.1 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcsGj) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39643920952_c0d668bdf3_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcswu)10046.2 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcswu) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/27896212649_3618cc9f0d_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6o8B)10046.3 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6o8B) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I tried to make both sides as similar as possible.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/27896212049_7d0b888d97_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6nXg)10046.4 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6nXg) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/27896211569_75da32cb5d_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6nNZ)10046.5 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6nNZ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The bumper fits nice and doesn’t bounce around!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965680414_218a4325d6_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngif7)10054 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngif7) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Here’s the front…

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965688834_6738372544_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngkKh)10046.6 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngkKh) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965688064_4ebf3ec7ce_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngkw1)10046.7 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngkw1) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965687434_57ce49f1a4_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngkk9)10046.8 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngkk9) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965686734_9f94d8904d_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngk85)10046.9 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngk85) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And then I made a pair of boxing plates for the side rails and welded them in. (For some reason this is the only picture I took)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965685774_4c20f8514c_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngjQw)10046.91 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngjQw) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The next big hurdle was permanently welding the suspension brackets to the rear end housing.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965685234_da9487f9b9_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngjFd)10046 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngjFd) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Here you can see how I shortened the back brace to clear the coil overs.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965683824_f371bde122_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngjfU)10047 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngjfU) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965683224_0f3c410dd8_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngj5y)10048 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngj5y) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With all the brackets welded on, I made a trip to Moser and had them weld on the Baer floater ends and cut axles for me.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965682574_eae5e8d4d2_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngiTm)10049 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngiTm) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965681094_be34d93450_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngirQ)10053 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngirQ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965682024_eb4e54935a_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngiHS)10050 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngiHS) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I also picked up some gear oil and axle seals.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38777334045_5e2a63b793_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BYqV)10051 (https://flic.kr/p/225BYqV) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And some Redline grease for the axle bearings.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965681704_462de6e346_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngiCm)10052 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngiCm) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With everything welded, I put the housing back in to see how it all fits.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965679664_43057f60b2_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngi2b)10055 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngi2b) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Here’s the Ridetech coil over with a spring in place.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965678984_0a43a31435_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22nghPs)10056.1 (https://flic.kr/p/22nghPs) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965678584_633d2ca074_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22nghGy)10056.2 (https://flic.kr/p/22nghGy) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Plenty of room!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965677194_f676060155_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22nghhA)10056 (https://flic.kr/p/22nghhA) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With the rear wheels and tires in place, the track width is 72” just like it was before. With these little 10” wide wheels and 295 tires, there’s 7 ½” between the inner side wall and the frame rail so I have lots of room to fit a 12” wide wheel with 335s!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965675874_c8a4387cb8_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22nggTQ)10058 (https://flic.kr/p/22nggTQ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965674934_09cc7bb52d_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22nggBC)10059.1 (https://flic.kr/p/22nggBC) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[Yelcamino]

A while back I came across a set of Jake’s Rod Shop C6 tubular arms being sold by Jon (Jtomas801) on Lateral-G. The price was right and I liked the way the lower arm was designed for a coil over vs the factory arm which requires a weak (IMO) trunnion to mount a coil over.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38777333635_b18df8cf0e_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BYiR)10059 (https://flic.kr/p/225BYiR) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38777332825_bde05bd837_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BY4T)10060 (https://flic.kr/p/225BY4T) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38777331245_f27ef93310_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BXAD)10061 (https://flic.kr/p/225BXAD) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Here’s the Jake’s Rod Shop arms mounted along with the new Ridetech Track 1 C7 hubs.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39674921421_b30d6a3baa_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkTk)10063 (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkTk) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Now things are starting to get fun! Just to help me visualize things, I put my P-Ayr mock-up engine in place. In this position, it’s about 12” rearward of the stock location. The plan is to get the engine behind the front axle centerline.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38965674084_2a0ab4b596_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22nggmY)10062 (https://flic.kr/p/22nggmY) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39674920571_eb1a51cdc8_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkCF)10064 (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkCF) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

For the most part the front suspension is all in place. I did a quick check of the alignment and I have 5* of caster on both sides, -1.5* of camber on one side and -1.4* of camber on the other. Not too bad as a starting point.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39674920011_607cfe993b_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkt2)10065 (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkt2) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/39674919611_b4be41cc3a_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkm8)10066 (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkm8) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

It’s finally starting to look like a real chassis!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38777330235_b27daf9773_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BXie)10067 (https://flic.kr/p/225BXie) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Now you’re all up to date. I still have a few little things I need to get done on the frame but the next big step is test fitting the body. Due to the rear suspension, I’m going to have to cut out some sections of the rear seat area and trunk floor. Before I can do that, I have to get the interior stripped. To get myself motivated, I took the rear wheels off the Z06 and put them on the frame to see how some big meats would fit…

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/38777328665_00cb6211d4_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BWQa)10072 (https://flic.kr/p/225BWQa) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/25802840328_7d02d5b35a_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7ito)10073 (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7ito) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/27896192259_854072a663_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6h54)10074 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6h54) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/27896190989_2611d390b1_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6gGa)10075 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6gGa) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/27896193799_f596324e74_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6hwB)10070 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6hwB) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/27896193259_721394ef88_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6hni)10071 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6hni) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The Z06 rear wheels are obviously too wide for the front and they have too much backspace. However, they actually turn quite a bit so that tells me 11” wheels (with the proper backspacing) and 315s will fit! They fit great out back but again, due to the offset, they actually narrow the rear track width by 2".

[badolds]

Awesome build my man. Would it be okay if we drop my Cutlass body on top of that to see how it would look?

Dan

[Yelcamino]

Awesome build my man. Would it be okay if we drop my Cutlass body on top of that to see how it would look?

Dan

Thanks Dan! You're Cutlass would probably look pretty cool, but that would be an awful lot of work!

[andrewb70]

Hey Herb,

Glad you started this new thread! Are you going to have to do major body mods to make the body fit on the new chassis?

Andrew

[Yelcamino]

Hey Herb,

Glad you started this new thread! Are you going to have to do major body mods to make the body fit on the new chassis?

Andrew

Hey Andrew! I shouldn't need to do any external body mods, but because of the 3rd link and the massive engine set back, I'll have to build a new firewall and floor around the rear seat and trunk area. If I go with a T56, then the tunnel will need surgery. In all likely hood, I'm going to build a complete new firewall and floor.

[Zanie]

Really outstanding work, Herb. Well thought out!

[Josh@Ridetech]

Impressive, as always. Glad to see you working on it, Herb!

[Martin71RS]

very cool Herb! that is some awesome fabrication there :-)

[Yelcamino]

Really outstanding work, Herb. Well thought out!


very cool Herb! that is some awesome fabrication there :-)

Thanks guys!

- - - Updated - - -


Impressive, as always. Glad to see you working on it, Herb!

Thanks Josh! Have you started a thread on your new toy?

[Z06killinSBF]

That's awesome! nice fab work

[67SSDan]

Holy balls man!! See... this is what I should have done. Taught myself how to weld, and then do it all myself. Cool stuff!!

Dan

[Yelcamino]

That's awesome! nice fab work

Thanks!

- - - Updated - - -


Holy balls man!! See... this is what I should have done. Taught myself how to weld, and then do it all myself. Cool stuff!!

Dan

Thanks Dan! I'm doing most of it myself. There are some things I'm not going to attempt, like the roll cage for instance.

[BBC71Nova]

Wow that's lot of nice work.

You still planning on the alum 522 BBC build and is it destined for this car? Did you get further with that engine? Last time I saw it I think it was getting lifter bores done or something. Interested to see how that turns out because I too wanted to do a 4" stroke build.

John

[Yelcamino]

Wow that's lot of nice work.

You still planning on the alum 522 BBC build and is it destined for this car? Did you get further with that engine? Last time I saw it I think it was getting lifter bores done or something. Interested to see how that turns out because I too wanted to do a 4" stroke build.

John

Thanks John! Yes, the all aluminum 509 is still the one! In fact, Straub Technologies (http://www.straubtechnologies.com/) is just about done with my heads, intake, and custom cam.

Once I get those parts back I'll do an update on the engine with pics, lotsa pics! :smoke:

[Motown 454]

I Can't wait to see that update! Nice work Herb.

[Yelcamino]

Thanks Wayne!

[Boosted Falcon]

Following, interesting project and great fab work.

[csouth]

This is definitely going next level. Subscribed!

[USAZR1]

I'll definitely be following this build. Beautiful work, Herb!

[jamminj007]

Beautiful work sir! You have mad skillz

[1965_SS]

WOW! Looks awesome, great job!

[Josh@Ridetech]

Thanks guys!

- - - Updated - - -



Thanks Josh! Have you started a thread on your new toy?

Not yet! lol

[Yelcamino]

Following, interesting project and great fab work.


This is definitely going next level. Subscribed!


I'll definitely be following this build. Beautiful work, Herb!


Beautiful work sir! You have mad skillz


WOW! Looks awesome, great job!

Thanks guys, I appreciate the kind words! :cheers:

[Yelcamino]

Not yet! lol

What are you waiting for? You sit in front of a computer all day! :throw:

[MOREHORSEPOWER]

Sweet Build !!!!

[berdunord]

what a nice build ! I'm following !

[chuckd71]

Really cool stuff, that's nice work for sure. I recently bought a pretty sweet Ford 9" setup with Ridetech mounts from Scott Mock. No idea who he is, nice guy though. I think he was going to try to fab up an IRS or something.

[Yelcamino]

Sweet Build !!!!

Thanks!


what a nice build ! I'm following !

Thanks!


Really cool stuff, that's nice work for sure. I recently bought a pretty sweet Ford 9" setup with Ridetech mounts from Scott Mock. No idea who he is, nice guy though. I think he was going to try to fab up an IRS or something.

Thanks! Yep, Scott's a nice guy for sure! :twothumbs

[Yelcamino]

Last week I got my freshly ported AFR heads, Holley intake, and custom solid roller cam from Straub Technologies.

The short block has been together for a while but it consists of a Brodix aluminum block, a Scat lightweight 4340 crank, Scat 4340 6.535" H-beam rods, Diamond pistons with ceramic coating on top and DFL on the skirts. The rod and main bearings are also coated with DFL. ARP main and head studs finish it off.

A couple of pics of these beautiful pistons.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/02/26341319688_e2209afddb_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9Ch)10083 (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9Ch) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/02/39502462724_cd7a64a653_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23bGrVw)10084 (https://flic.kr/p/23bGrVw) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The rotating assembly.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/02/40213789361_44190317a3_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24gybxT)10086 (https://flic.kr/p/24gybxT) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The full short block ready to go.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/02/28434371019_61204a9a86_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KjDzSc)10085 (https://flic.kr/p/KjDzSc) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The AFR 305 heads that are now so much more.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/02/40213789081_0a39530079_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24gybt4)10087 (https://flic.kr/p/24gybt4) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/02/40213788621_7a5b330268_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24gybk8)10088 (https://flic.kr/p/24gybk8) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Intake port.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/02/26341320868_6af417ce43_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9YC)10089 (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9YC) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Exhaust port.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/02/26341320668_a1a12f23a2_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9Vb)10090 (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9Vb) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The intake system is this Holley HP EFI.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/02/39502463644_0b269d83e9_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23bGsco)10100 (https://flic.kr/p/23bGsco) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Fortunately I sent the intake along with the heads to be port matched... and the ports were off to one side enough that they required epoxy to bring them back in line.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/02/26341320218_a48fecc1b5_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9Mq)10094 (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9Mq) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Here it is mocked up. :smoke:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/02/39502465034_07ae5a9d1b_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23bGsBm)10092 (https://flic.kr/p/23bGsBm) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I'm waiting for a few more parts to arrive and then it's on to actual assembly time.

[beater65]

That's a sexy big block.

Have expectations on final output?

[andrewb70]

Nice combination, Herb.

I'd say 700hp...

Andrew

[Yelcamino]

That's a sexy big block.

Have expectations on final output?


Nice combination, Herb.

I'd say 700hp...

Andrew

Thanks guys. The goal was 800 hp at the flywheel and Straub feels we'll achieve that goal, maybe even exceed it a little. We'll see what the dyno says.

[jetmech442]

Awesome build my man. Would it be okay if we drop my Cutlass body on top of that to see how it would look?

Dan

lol, this was my first thought!

Builds like this really showcase what amazing things can be done with a lot of skill and vision, thanks for posting those killer pics.

I just completed my 3-link conversion, designed and fabbed from knowledge gathered on this sight. I'm real curious how your third link will mount to the frame. good luck with the rest, I'll be checking for updates every hour or so from work, lol.

[Yelcamino]

lol, this was my first thought!

Builds like this really showcase what amazing things can be done with a lot of skill and vision, thanks for posting those killer pics.

I just completed my 3-link conversion, designed and fabbed from knowledge gathered on this sight. I'm real curious how your third link will mount to the frame. good luck with the rest, I'll be checking for updates every hour or so from work, lol.

I appreciate the positive comments! I've never done chassis mods this extensive before, but I'm trying my best!

The vertical tube that the 3rd link attaches to will be tied into the harness bar on the cage.

[Motown 454]

Nice looking motor!

[64G-lark]

Nice build Herb. I like what your doing in the rear.

[Yelcamino]

Nice looking motor!

Thanks Wayne!


Nice build Herb. I like what your doing in the rear.

Thanks Mark!

[Autobahn-Outlaw]

Very nice welding and build ! I need to learn alot for my build, lol.
The engine with the aluminum block looks good, too.

You go with the Corvette rims ?

Sub´d and greetings from Germany.

[Yelcamino]

Very nice welding and build ! I need to learn alot for my build, lol.
The engine with the aluminum block looks good, too.

You go with the Corvette rims ?

Sub´d and greetings from Germany.

Thanks! The Corvette wheels were just for test fitting and are now back on the Corvette where they belong. :cheers:

[Yelcamino]

Not much too update other than picking up another piece of the puzzle from Bowler Transmissions. Once I get a bellhousing I’ll be able to mock up the engine and trans location.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/40647939342_29d8294717_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24VVjdo)T001 (https://flic.kr/p/24VVjdo) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/40647938792_d1514c630f_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24VVj3U)T002 (https://flic.kr/p/24VVj3U) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[Yelcamino]

Just a few small updates...

On the engine, I got the cam installed, degreed it (ended up 2* retarded), and checked piston to valve clearance (.120" intake, .160" exhaust). I also installed the rocker stands but I'm going to wait until I get closer to starting the engine before I install the rest of the valve train. No sense putting the valve springs under stress while it sits on the stand.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/26125660547_28b382c0dd_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FNCQFe)10101 (https://flic.kr/p/FNCQFe) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/40996329321_72ef14a360_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25sGUqa)10104 (https://flic.kr/p/25sGUqa) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/26125659107_af68b2fab1_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FNCQfp)10105 (https://flic.kr/p/FNCQfp) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr


Next was a big step forward on this project... separating the body from the chassis! Now that this is done, there's no going back! :fingersx:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/40287152174_a14a651deb_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24o3bKY)10083 (https://flic.kr/p/24o3bKY) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[Yelcamino]

I finally got the nerve to start cutting on the Chevelle. There isn’t much original left on this car other than the main body, but I was still fretting cutting it up because of this…

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/40239498985_790f9e1b9d_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPX8g)10095 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPX8g) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

In the end, my inner Roadkill rose to the occasion and I busted out the sawsall and plasma cutter! The first cut is always the hardest, but once that was done, it was a free for all!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/26263287117_789f4cc64e_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G1Ndg8)10084 (https://flic.kr/p/G1Ndg8) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With the trunk cut out, the next step was the first test fit.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/40239503645_0e60d2e024_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPYvB)10085 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPYvB) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Of course, once it got close to the frame, I saw a bunch of other stuff in the way, so I cut some more.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/26263286067_233e365eb4_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G1NcX2)10086 (https://flic.kr/p/G1NcX2) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

After that second round of cuts everything looked good and I started to lower it down until the rockers hit the frame supports (in the red lines, two on each side). Back up it went and off they came.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/26263285517_662be730e3_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G1NcMx)10087 (https://flic.kr/p/G1NcMx) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And just like that she fits! As I stared at it, the rear looked really low, so I went out the El Camino and took some measurements to compare. Keep in mind, the chassis is level to the frame table so there’s no rake at all. Compared to the El Camino, the front of the Chevelle is about an inch lower, but the rear is 3-1/2 inches lower! Talk about mind blown! I never realized the El Camino had so much rake to it.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/40423615214_f7d59605aa_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24A6At1)10089 (https://flic.kr/p/24A6At1) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

This view is from the front. Next step is to finish cutting out the floor and tunnel so I can put the new floor supports in.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/26263284527_f68d285410_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G1Ncut)10090 (https://flic.kr/p/G1Ncut) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Engine compartment looks good. I have to remove the heater box and most of the firewall if I want to move the engine back as far as I originally planned.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/40239500945_b69a828666_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPXH4)10091 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPXH4) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The Ron Sutton 3-link looks happy.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/26263283247_e5ea46b599_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G1Nc7p)10092 (https://flic.kr/p/G1Nc7p) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Imagine this view with 315’s tucked in there!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/03/40423616194_9d7e113828_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24A6AKU)10093 (https://flic.kr/p/24A6AKU) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[andrewb70]

Herb,

You're living the dream!!! Keep it up.

Andrew

[Yelcamino]

Herb,

You're living the dream!!! Keep it up.

Andrew

I'm trying!

[64G-lark]

Looking good.

[Yelcamino]

Looking good.

Thanks!

[Yelcamino]

It’s hard to believe five months has passed since my last post! It’s been a busy summer but I finally found some time to work on the Chevelle. Over the last few days I finished cutting out the floor and firewall.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/08/29341085957_c90132eae6_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LGLJCn)10097 (https://flic.kr/p/LGLJCn) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/08/42469135790_9f4b17e38e_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27GRqt9)10100 (https://flic.kr/p/27GRqt9) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Then I added in the two 2x2” rails to connect the front and rear chassis sections. More bracing will be added but this is just to get me started.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/08/42469135140_d57772b0b8_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27GRqgW)10101 (https://flic.kr/p/27GRqgW) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/08/42469134340_dbd1a53660_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27GRq39)10102 (https://flic.kr/p/27GRq39) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Once all that was done I put it on the ground for the first time in about two years! My curiosity was killing me so I scaled it just to see.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/08/42469133490_36974fb3a5_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27GRpMu)10103 (https://flic.kr/p/27GRpMu) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Notice the driver side is heavier and the front bias is pretty light, but I’m sure the hood sitting on the roof skewed things a bit. Now that I have a baseline, I’m going to weigh it after each major change, such as the cage, engine & trans, etc. My goal is to not exceed 3400 lbs.

Well here it is…

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/08/29341081937_f6e5c231ce_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LGLHr4)10104 (https://flic.kr/p/LGLHr4) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And here they are…

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/08/29341089307_fab2b6c3d7_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LGLKC8)10105 (https://flic.kr/p/LGLKC8) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[Yelcamino]

Here are some more pics from today...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/08/42482248220_44b400bc46_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27J1Ckw)10109 (https://flic.kr/p/27J1Ckw) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/08/44241729142_8c3baf737f_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2apuqHu)10110 (https://flic.kr/p/2apuqHu) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/08/43572810274_bf502bd206_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29oo3ry)10107 (https://flic.kr/p/29oo3ry) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/08/29354280947_c780a7408f_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LHWn3c)10108 (https://flic.kr/p/LHWn3c) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[Bow Tie 67]

Somebody's enjoying retirement, looks awsome Herb and motivates me to get working on mine.

[wyattroa]

So whats the plan when you need to take the valve covers off or heads off?

[Motown 454]

It looks Sweet Herb! This is going to be nimble!

[berdunord]

love that project ! really cool !

[rchaskin]

How did I miss this!!
Awesome build!!

[jmking9]

The car is looking great! Always been one of my favorites. Question for you, what headers were you running with the big block in the stock frame? I'm trying to find some that don't hang too low on a car with a fairly low stance. Thank you

[Yelcamino]

Somebody's enjoying retirement, looks awsome Herb and motivates me to get working on mine.

Thanks Matt!

- - - Updated - - -


So whats the plan when you need to take the valve covers off or heads off?

I'm not done cutting yet. I still have to cut out more firewall above the engine and on the sides. There will be room to work on it when I'm done. It won't be any worse than a 4th gen Camaro.

- - - Updated - - -


It looks Sweet Herb! This is going to be nimble!

Thanks Wayne!

- - - Updated - - -


How did I miss this!!
Awesome build!!

Thanks Randy!

- - - Updated - - -


The car is looking great! Always been one of my favorites. Question for you, what headers were you running with the big block in the stock frame? I'm trying to find some that don't hang too low on a car with a fairly low stance. Thank you

Thanks! I had a set of custom Stahl Headers but they've since shut down operations. I won't be able to use the Stahls with the new chassis, so if you're interested in them, I can send you some pics.

[Smitty454]

Hi Herb,

Random question: How did you acquire the skills to do all this crazy fab work?

[Yelcamino]

Hi Herb,

Random question: How did you acquire the skills to do all this crazy fab work?

Not sure if I'd call myself a skilled fabricator. I read a lot, look at lots of pictures from real fabricators, and trial and error. So far, so good! :fingersx:

[jetmech442]

I love the "Project Updates" section- I keep finding gems like this-great progress man! I love the offset 3 Link too! I fabbed my 3 link with the body on the car which was not ideal for sure!-Maybe one day I'll get a lift and do the whole frame like you.

I can't tell from the pics, but did you build any adjustability into the upper link for Anti squat? I set mine up for 30 degree increments from 40-160% antisquat by having 2 positions on the axle end, and 3 on the frame end. I'm always curious to see how other people approach their custom suspensions. Anyways, this thread was great motivation, thanks!

[Josh@Ridetech]

Not sure if I'd call myself a skilled fabricator. I read a lot, look at lots of pictures from real fabricators, and trial and error. So far, so good! :fingersx:

Don't let Herb's modesty fool you, he's a very knowledgeable/skilled guy! He's made me feel like I was an idiot since the day I met him. :cheers:

[Yelcamino]

I love the "Project Updates" section- I keep finding gems like this-great progress man! I love the offset 3 Link too! I fabbed my 3 link with the body on the car which was not ideal for sure!-Maybe one day I'll get a lift and do the whole frame like you.

I can't tell from the pics, but did you build any adjustability into the upper link for Anti squat? I set mine up for 30 degree increments from 40-160% antisquat by having 2 positions on the axle end, and 3 on the frame end. I'm always curious to see how other people approach their custom suspensions. Anyways, this thread was great motivation, thanks!

Thanks! Not sure if I posted this pic or not, but you can see the forward end of the upper link has multiple positions, plus all three links are length adjustable.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/01/27896216539_44b140d7c9_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6phF)10043 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6phF) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[Yelcamino]

Don't let Herb's modesty fool you, he's a very knowledgeable/skilled guy! He's made me feel like I was an idiot since the day I met him. :cheers:

Funny Josh! :cheers:

[Josh@Ridetech]

Funny Josh! :cheers:
:rotfl:

[Yelcamino]

In an effort to keep this project moving forward, I set the trans and bellhousing in place.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/09/42882551240_dba5b0cbf2_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/28kohtJ)10112 (https://flic.kr/p/28kohtJ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

This enabled me to make sure I had the engine where it needed to be, specifically to be sure the return line for the power steering reservoir cleared the shock mount.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/09/29755099387_53101e7ea3_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEoX)10113 (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEoX) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

To help figure out driveline angles, I cut 10-3/8” off of a damaged driveshaft from the El Camino and welded it together for mock up. In case you're wondering, the El Camino and Chevelle used the same length driveshafts, so that means the Chevelle's engine is 10-3/8" back from stock location.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/09/29755099067_eced24d73b_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEir)10114 (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEir) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/09/29755098847_3c224b66af_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEeD)10115 (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEeD) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With an actual driveshaft in place, I now see the rear hoop needs to be raised… so there’s my next project within a project!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/09/29755098597_d4b44da524_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEak)10116 (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEak) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[Yelcamino]

I'm finally back at on the Chevelle. Since my last update a lot of things have been pushing this project on to the back burner. We replaced the gravel driveway with concrete (around 146 yds!), got a new front door on the house, I converted the El Camino over to a Ridetech coilover system with a set of custom built (by me) triple adjustable shocks, and we drove to Vegas to attend SEMA. Over the last few days I was able to get most of the main cage structure tacked in place. I've never installed a cage before and I'm using a kit (from Ron Sutton). I don't have any experience to say whether or not the kit is any good (not that it matters anymore), but I think it will be ok for my use.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/11/45830500672_4df3edde44_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cPTi95)20181114_114640 (https://flic.kr/p/2cPTi95) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/11/44063511580_6fa9877bc5_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2a8K1QU)20181114_114652 (https://flic.kr/p/2a8K1QU) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Once I'm done with the main cage, the body is coming off and the chassis is going on a rotisserie that I'm borrowing from Tom Farrington. With access to all the tight joints I should be able to weld it much better than in the car. While it's on the rotisserie, I'll also address some areas under the chassis that were hard to get at while it was on the table.

It may not be Vorshlag quality, but I'm trying my best! :twothumbs

[Yelcamino]

In case anyone was wondering, I'm still plugging away on the Chevelle but I've been very lazy with thread updates. Instead of boring you with all the little details, I'll just post the most current stuff...

Here it is on the ground for the first time in a while. I had the Forgelines widened to 18x11 and 18x12. The tires are a used set of 315s and 335s I got from Ridetech. They're good enough to roll around the shop and even for some test drives when the time comes. I have the mock up engine in place mounted to the Quicktime bell and T56. Engine set back looks good too.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/03/47377999342_c98c68b023_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fbCCzC)20190317_210712 (https://flic.kr/p/2fbCCzC) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/03/46515672175_c4f41dba6e_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dSqYKR)20190318_101809 (https://flic.kr/p/2dSqYKR) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/03/33554820528_7ec8254b69_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T88e7q)20190318_101754 (https://flic.kr/p/T88e7q) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/03/47378000662_75b28f3257_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fbCCYo)20190317_210552 (https://flic.kr/p/2fbCCYo) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/03/47378073982_e66cdabf3d_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fbD1Lw)20190317_210727 (https://flic.kr/p/2fbD1Lw) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With the help of some friends, I made new steering arms.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/03/33554819188_ceb72a2378_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T88dHj)20190318_101949 (https://flic.kr/p/T88dHj) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I've also been busy bending sheetmetal for the interior. Right now it's just screwed together to make sure it all fits.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/03/33554865598_bc9011ab9a_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T88svu)20190214_190154 (https://flic.kr/p/T88svu) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Finally, I got the fuel cell mounts figured out.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/03/47378035612_90f424e593_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fbCPmY)20190112_170316 (https://flic.kr/p/2fbCPmY) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/03/33554867738_eb32179ff1_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T88t9o)20190112_170248 (https://flic.kr/p/T88t9o) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The next big task will be removing the body again, mounting the chassis on a rotisserie so I can complete all the cage welding and other various things that are currently tacked together.

[andrewb70]

#racecar :-)

Andrew

[Motown 454]

Wow that's a lot of progress!

It may not be Vorshlag quality, but I'm trying my best!

It looks like your doing a damn fine job to me!
Very nice Herb

[Yelcamino]

#racecar :-)

Andrew

In street car clothes!

- - - Updated - - -


Wow that's a lot of progress!

It may not be Vorshlag quality, but I'm trying my best!

It looks like your doing a damn fine job to me!
Very nice Herb

Thanks Wayne! My goal is to have it on the road by summer 2020.

[Yelcamino]

It's been a while, so this is where I'm at...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48037613268_50e9c49145_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gbVjPw)20190606_163319 (https://flic.kr/p/2gbVjPw) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48037611258_e28155c3e2_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gbVjdS)20190607_180422 (https://flic.kr/p/2gbVjdS) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48037570371_d2fc3aefbf_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gbV74V)20190609_183741 (https://flic.kr/p/2gbV74V) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48037568156_bc52a54fe3_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gbV6pJ)20190609_183753 (https://flic.kr/p/2gbV6pJ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I've been welding the joints that I can reach. Now with everything removed, I'm putting it on a rotisserie so I can get to all the hard to reach places and get this thing buttoned up!

[andrewb70]

Incredible work! #racecar :-)

Andrew

[Yelcamino]

Incredible work! #racecar :-)

Andrew

Thanks!

[Pingar]

This is amazing! I can’t wait to see more.

[Yelcamino]

This is amazing! I can’t wait to see more.

Thanks! I'm in the shop almost every day for 6-8 hours trying to get this thing moving along.

[Yelcamino]

The new intake showed up yesterday and I thought you guys might like some engine porn! :smoke:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48058897262_6f4c2ff2b0_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpNW)20190613_185419 (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpNW) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48058897132_a6ddc0f393_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpLG)20190613_185519 (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpLG) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48058896932_009706d042_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpHf)20190613_185540 (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpHf) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48058896822_1b6dd7e977_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpFm)20190613_185546 (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpFm) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48058849403_03f26d2015_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNazM)20190613_185626 (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNazM) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[andrewb70]

Drool


Andrew

[ryeguy2006a]

I just found this thread, fantastic work! You know I was thinking while I was reading that that Holley efi manifold looked out of place on that motor, and then I scroll down to the last page and you've updated to the Hogan intake. Nice choice!

[wayne70]

Nice work Herb. Glad to see you stayed with the big block!

[mnr60]

That intake looks killer!

[Yelcamino]

Drool


Andrew

Yeah I know! :drool: Every time I go in the shop, I lift the cover and stare at it for a few minutes before I get to work!

[Yelcamino]

I just found this thread, fantastic work! You know I was thinking while I was reading that that Holley efi manifold looked out of place on that motor, and then I scroll down to the last page and you've updated to the Hogan intake. Nice choice!

Thanks! I was in denial for quite a while but I just couldn't come up with a good way to contain the Holley under the hood without a big scoop of some sort and I didn't want to just cut a hole in the hood either. So now with the Hogan it will fit under a stock SS hood.

- - - Updated - - -


Nice work Herb. Glad to see you stayed with the big block!

Thanks Wayne! It's a 138 car so the only option was a big block. :cheers:

- - - Updated - - -


That intake looks killer!

Thanks!

[Bob in St. Louis]

"Following"
Amazing build!
Glad I'm not the guy that has to replace those back two spark plugs though. ;)

[Yelcamino]

"Following"
Amazing build!
Glad I'm not the guy that has to replace those back two spark plugs though. ;)

Thanks! Changing the rear plugs shouldn't be too bad - I have a lift and the doghouse is bigger than it needed to be.

What I'm not looking forward to is setting the valve lash! The engine has Jesel shaft rockers and they hold pretty good so we'll see.

[Yelcamino]

The chassis is once again upright. I still need to add some more tubes but it's steadily getting closer to paint.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48075611327_b02d348879_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gfh5jt)20190615_183816 (https://flic.kr/p/2gfh5jt) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Here are some close ups of my TIG work. With every joint, the quality improves.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48075544378_32c57c0731_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gfgJqb)20190615_163107 (https://flic.kr/p/2gfgJqb) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48075611422_8d61a0a56f_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gfh5m7)20190611_150955[1] (https://flic.kr/p/2gfh5m7) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48075544728_971c8117e5_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gfgJwd)20190613_184730[1] (https://flic.kr/p/2gfgJwd) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48075544848_e7ff5f8705_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gfgJyh)20190614_174236 (https://flic.kr/p/2gfgJyh) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And this is my Fupa 12 that works like a charm!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/06/48075611802_3a14273d61_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gfh5sE)20190615_132508 (https://flic.kr/p/2gfh5sE) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[Yelcamino]

Some more quick updates...

Before I painted everything, I made templates for the belly pans.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/07/48291443666_a4617a9c13_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmgKG)B006 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmgKG) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Then I got busy with some VHT chassis black.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/07/48291443806_8344fca47e_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmgN7)B007 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmgN7) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/07/48291544967_95f2dd7715_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmMSg)B008 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmMSg) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Then I transferred the templates to aluminum and drilled all the holes (around 250). Before I install the pans to stay, I'll countersink the holes so the screws will be flush. I also got started on the Heat Shield Products heat reflective fabric. I still need to finish the dog house and then some, possibly all, of the firewall after the body is on to stay.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/07/48291545182_676c283d8c_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmMVY)B005 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmMVY) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Then I got to do some fun stuff - installing the front suspension! :yeah:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/07/48291444786_55bf4bdec8_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmh61)B003 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmh61) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/07/48291444521_e341a76f06_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmh1r)B004 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmh1r) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/07/48291545957_e9c2ef0c0d_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmNak)B002 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmNak) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/07/48291445161_785df710a1_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmhct)B001 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmhct) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[andrewb70]

That is a big front tire!

Andrew

[Yelcamino]

That is a big front tire!

Andrew

Yeah it takes up some space!

[Yelcamino]

I installed the rear suspension and got it on the scales. Total weight is 1365 with only 43.52% on the front, not too bad.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/07/48329470347_e41baa9306_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gCHaL8)20190719_174817 (https://flic.kr/p/2gCHaL8) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/07/48329335026_8fa36a5838_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gCGtx1)20190719_173002 (https://flic.kr/p/2gCGtx1) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

As I assembled everything, I weighed each part so I could see where the weight was coming from and also to help when it comes time to balance left/right/front/back. This is what I have so far:


Steering rack - 15lbs
Driver side upper/lower arms, spindle, C7 hub - 31lbs
Passenger side upper/lower arms, spindle, C7 hub - 31lbs
Coilovers (11lbs ea) - 22lbs
Rotors (20lbs ea) - 40lbs
Calipers & pads (8lbs ea) -16lbs
Wheels & tires (48lbs ea) - 96lbs
Front Suspension total - 251lbs

3 links & hardware - 15lbs
Watts links - 9lbs
Rear end housing assembly (no oil or axles) - 220lbs
Rear axles - 20lbs
Calipers & pads (8lbs ea) - 16lbs
Coilovers (11lbs ea) - 22lbs
Wheels & tires (51lbs ea) - 102lbs
Rear Suspension total - 404lbs

Chassis & cage - 710lbs

Total weight - 1365lbs

If you remember, after I first test fit the body to the chassis, I scaled it and it was 1875 lbs. None of the cage components were in it at the time but all the suspension parts were.

It will be interesting to see how much the body will add.

[c4racer2]

More than 100!!

[andrewb70]

Herb,

Are you going to have enough room for pedals with the dog house taking up a lot of room?

Andrew

[Yelcamino]

Herb,

Are you going to have enough room for pedals with the dog house taking up a lot of room?

Andrew

Yes there's room, not a lot to spare, but the Tilton floor mount pedals fit. I need to make a recess in the side of the dog house because at full throttle the outer edge of my foot hits it. I'm sure I could get used to driving it like that, but I may as well make room now.

[Zanie]

Wow!

[Yelcamino]

It looks like my last post was four weeks ago. Some things have happened since then.

The big mile stone is the body is back on the chassis to stay...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/08/48576949806_a58da6f027_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zyMm)10134 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zyMm) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/08/48577104222_eed30c347c_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1AmFG)10132 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1AmFG) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/08/48577102147_238ac8ec3b_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1Am4V)10133 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1Am4V) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/08/48576950146_420778ee1f_z-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zyTd)10135 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zyTd) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Those 315's look absolutely huge on there!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/08/48577103562_704de9c5ba_z-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1Amuj)10137 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1Amuj) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And of course, I weighed it.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/08/48576950441_992b46dc8e_z-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zyYi)10136 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zyYi) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

So 2129 lbs includes the body, chassis, cage work, suspension, wheels & tires. Before I started the cage if you remember, it weighed 1875 lbs, which means all of the cage components only added 254 lbs. Another interesting thing, the chassis with suspension, wheels & tires, and cage weighed 1365 lbs. That means the body, which includes glass and all door components, but no hood, floor, front/rear fenderwells, or interior, added 764 lbs.

The only other thing I've done since the body went back on is to install the bumpers to help make sure everything is centered properly.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/08/48576951116_bf75640339_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zzaW)10138 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zzaW) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[Yelcamino]

While trying to free up some room in the shop, I decided to make an engine test stand using some of the old roll bar I removed from the Chevelle and scrap tubing left over from the new cage. It's not pretty, I just slammed it together and the only money I spent on it ($20) was a set of casters from Harbor Freight. All the other stuff that's bolted to it, I either had sitting on a shelf, or I bought it to go in the Chevelle.

This also gave me an opportunity to see how much the all aluminum big block actually weighs!

Test stand - 98 lbs
Engine on stand (no intake or TB) - 614 lbs

Since I already weighed the bellhousing (30 lbs), clutch assembly 43 lbs), and test stand, I subtracted them from the 614, which put it at 443.

Then I weighed the Hogan intake and Holley throttle body (24 lbs) and now that gives me an engine weight of 467 lbs.

In the pic, the front accessories are in place and where during the weighing. The water pump & pulley (6 lbs), alternator, bracket, bolts, belt (12 lbs), PS pump, bracket, bolts, belt (5 lbs), and motor plates (4 lbs).

If my math is correct, just the engine from oil pan (includes 8 qts of oil) to intake, only weighs 440 lbs! I guess I don't need an LS to save weight! :bananna2:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/08/48577404447_719b6da03e_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1BTVZ)10142 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1BTVZ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I haven't run it yet because I'm still getting all the little pieces like fittings, hoses, etc, in place. Once it's running, I'll post a vid.

[WildCherry66]

Some drool-worthy updates Herb! AMAZING stuff you’re doing and love watching your progress in awe (Queue the popcorn maker) :-O

[Bob in St. Louis]

This is fantastic!

[andrewb70]

Herb,

Ping me if you want me to come over for some tuning...

Andrew

[Yelcamino]

Some drool-worthy updates Herb! AMAZING stuff you’re doing and love watching your progress in awe (Queue the popcorn maker) :-O


This is fantastic!


Thanks guys!

- - - Updated - - -


Herb,

Ping me if you want me to come over for some tuning...

Andrew

Not sure if you want to trek up to Jasper, but that would be cool.

[Yelcamino]

Small update... the engine runs! :headbang:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/09/48711423992_42404c21f0_z-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hdsMgN)509 Running (https://flic.kr/p/2hdsMgN) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[andrewb70]

Glad you are getting things sorted!!!

[David Sloan]

Sweet!
sounds good and healthy

[jetmech442]

Sounds real good. Can't wait to hear it scream at 6k! Not sure where you are, but if you every make it to any of the midwest tracks(Gingerman, Autobahn, Road America..) let me know, I'd love you come listen to you make those tires sing.

[Yelcamino]

Glad you are getting things sorted!!!

Slowly but surely!

- - - Updated - - -


Sweet!
sounds good and healthy

Thanks!

[Yelcamino]

Sounds real good. Can't wait to hear it scream at 6k! Not sure where you are, but if you every make it to any of the midwest tracks(Gingerman, Autobahn, Road America..) let me know, I'd love you come listen to you make those tires sing.

Thanks! It will sound even better at 7200! I go to Gingerman occasionally and Putnam Park, which is pretty close to me. Hopefully next summer I'll be able to get some test drives in, maybe even an event.

[Bob in St. Louis]

Engine is so badass, it leaves burnouts with even being in a car.

[Motown 454]

I must have done something wrong I can't see the video.

[Bob in St. Louis]

I must have done something wrong I can't see the video.

It's not you. I can't see it either.
But I clicked the black area, and it opened to a different webpage.

[Twentyover]

Click the 509 beside the black box, it will take you to a link that has the video

[Yelcamino]

Engine is so badass, it leaves burnouts with even being in a car.

That's funny! Thanks!

- - - Updated - - -


I must have done something wrong I can't see the video.


It's not you. I can't see it either.
But I clicked the black area, and it opened to a different webpage.

Just click the black box. I guess that's how Flickr does it with the videos. I'm sure if I took some time I could figure out how to imbed it...

[F pilot]

Herb, I tip my hat to your most excellent work and taking the time to share the process with us. I have the same kind of project, (almost identical without the cage effects) as this going on with my 67 SS. I have all C6 corvette Chassis, suspension, tremec 6 SPD T-56, LS2 set up etc... I am curious as to why you wouldn’t go full independent rear suspension?

[Yelcamino]

Herb, I tip my hat to your most excellent work and taking the time to share the process with us. I have the same kind of project, (almost identical without the cage effects) as this going on with my 67 SS. I have all C6 corvette Chassis, suspension, tremec 6 SPD T-56, LS2 set up etc... I am curious as to why you wouldn’t go full independent rear suspension?

Thanks! Unfortunately, this build wasn't planned out, it just kinda happened along. The spark was to get wider front wheels and tires, everything else popped out of the wake! Hind sight being what it is, I probably should have used a LS engine instead of a big block Chevy. :dunno:

[Yelcamino]

Holy crap! Hard to believe my last post on this was in January! If anyone is interested, I'm still plugging along. I recently just rebuilt the core support to move the radiator closer to the engine, unshroud the core, and provide room for the oil cooler.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50104245688_e3a94945ed_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jkxmCY)20200709_163912 (https://flic.kr/p/2jkxmCY) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

This is where I am in the overall build...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50104244658_0a37391290_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jkxmkd)20200709_184552 (https://flic.kr/p/2jkxmkd) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I still have a ways to go, but it's still progressing.

[Bob in St. Louis]

STILL INTERESTED!!! haha
Great car man, rock on!

[andrewb70]

Looking good Herb!

[Yelcamino]

STILL INTERESTED!!! haha
Great car man, rock on!

Thanks Bob!

- - - Updated - - -


Looking good Herb!

Thanks Andrew!

[Motown 454]

Very nice Herb, I finally got to see the video! well worth the wait. It's looking good!

[Yelcamino]

Very nice Herb, I finally got to see the video! well worth the wait. It's looking good!

Thanks Wayne!

[David Sloan]

Something about a hard car makes me smile! Built not bought! Love it!
Looking good Herb!

[Yelcamino]

Something about a hard car makes me smile! Built not bought! Love it!
Looking good Herb!

Thanks David!

[Yelcamino]

I was just notified that my headers are done and on their way! Instead of building my own headers and learning through trial and error, I decided to have GP Headers build them for me. The offer a kit that includes headers flanges, collectors, aluminum hinges, PVC elbows and self tapping screws. After you purchase a stick of PVC straight tubing, you build your PVC mock up headers the way you want them. Once you're done, you ship the mock up headers to GP and they reproduce them in the material of your choice and ship them back.

I opted for stainless construction with merge collectors. They should be here Tuesday. Once I get them in I can finish the exhaust system and be another step closer!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50123081907_3264796890_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jncTZn)20200716_105103 (https://flic.kr/p/2jncTZn) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50122858876_7fddb9478e_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jnbKG1)20200716_134437 (https://flic.kr/p/2jnbKG1) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50122292103_7cbc5f8473_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jn8Rd4)20200618_150826 (https://flic.kr/p/2jn8Rd4) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[David Sloan]

They look so much sexier on my computer than on my phone!:)

[Yelcamino]

They look so much sexier on my computer than on my phone!:)

:lmao: They'll be even sexier in real life!

[rixtrix1]

Turned out very nicely!

[Yelcamino]

Turned out very nicely!

Thanks Ric!

[TANKMASTERJ]

Such an awesome way to get headers the way you want that's a first class deal. I didn't know anyshops allowed you to do that

[Yelcamino]

Such an awesome way to get headers the way you want that's a first class deal. I didn't know anyshops allowed you to do that

This seemed like the best option for me and it worked out great!

[Motown 454]

That’s some sweet fab work right there. Very nice Herb.

[Vimes]

I don't know about anyone else, but when I saw...




https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50122292103_7cbc5f8473_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jn8Rd4)20200618_150826 (https://flic.kr/p/2jn8Rd4) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I thought BOM BOM BOM-BOM BOM BOMBOM!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/dead_stormtroopers_by_yellowplasmad74yv4-1.ekrs17dte7dekq5fyy0cpy1zwt1gpp2mznbvbz7p5ia

[Yelcamino]

It's been a busy week! I installed the headers and they fit like a glove! So happy how they turned out. Next on the list was to make the connections from the headers to the exhaust. That's all done and the only thing left is to have thermal barrier coating applied at some point.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50173661891_e2992cb271_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jrF8E4)20200725_165109 (https://flic.kr/p/2jrF8E4) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50173661771_4eeea4d4fd_h-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jrF8BZ)20200725_163209 (https://flic.kr/p/2jrF8BZ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I've also been chipping away at plumbing and wiring. I'm waiting for some fittings to finish the power steering lines and I think plumbing is done. Wiring is at the beginning stage. Battery cables are in place and most of the EFI harness is in. Slow progress, but at least it's progress.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50173116938_503885a9db_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jrCkEj)20200729_191840 (https://flic.kr/p/2jrCkEj) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50173117243_12cbde9b2c_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jrCkKz)20200730_182312 (https://flic.kr/p/2jrCkKz) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[TANKMASTERJ]

I just rolled back the build thread. What an awesome project.
Keep up the fantastic work
Jason

[Yelcamino]

I just rolled back the build thread. What an awesome project.
Keep up the fantastic work
Jason

Thanks!

[David Sloan]

awesome Herb!
What size is the square tubing you used on the frame floor? I'm looking for inspiration for my elcamino project.

[Yelcamino]

awesome Herb!
What size is the square tubing you used on the frame floor? I'm looking for inspiration for my elcamino project.

2x2, .083 wall.

[Yelcamino]

Here's a fun update...

Rdneb5DWzVA

[Bob in St. Louis]

Very nice!

[454bug]

Hey Herb,

I’m sorry I didn’t come across this sooner! Great work and upgrades. It’s great you are keeping the weight down so much. Especially for a Chevelle. I love that you stuck with the BBC. I gave in and swapped to an LS on my project. If I would have kept my stroke down to an acceptable amount, I might have stuck with my BBC also. Your setup with the mechanical roller should zing those RPMs just fine! Your engine weight is really right in line with an LS motor.

Your getting close! Take care and I look forward to more progress reports. :cheers:

[C Presley]

What are the specs on your BBC? Absolutely Nasty! Cam profile, compression?

[C Presley]

Absolutely Insane. I watched the clip 3 times.

[Yelcamino]

Very nice!


Absolutely Insane. I watched the clip 3 times.

Thanks!

[Yelcamino]

Hey Herb,

I’m sorry I didn’t come across this sooner! Great work and upgrades. It’s great you are keeping the weight down so much. Especially for a Chevelle. I love that you stuck with the BBC. I gave in and swapped to an LS on my project. If I would have kept my stroke down to an acceptable amount, I might have stuck with my BBC also. Your setup with the mechanical roller should zing those RPMs just fine! Your engine weight is really right in line with an LS motor.

Your getting close! Take care and I look forward to more progress reports. :cheers:

Thanks! I'm not sure how long it's going to stay light, I keep adding stuff! I like the uniqueness of the BBC in today's LS/LT pro-touring world.

I work on it just about every day. A little here, a little there, eventually it will be rolling down the road! :drive:

[Yelcamino]

What are the specs on your BBC? Absolutely Nasty! Cam profile, compression?

It's a 509, Brodix aluminum block (4" stroke x 4.5" bore), solid roller (it's big) by Straub Tech, AFR heads ported by Scott Foxwell, Scat lightweight 4340 crank, Scat 4340 H beam rods, Diamond pistons (10.5 cr), Jesel shaft rockers, Hogan intake, and GP Headers.

[David Sloan]

2x2, .083 wall.


Thank you sir

[Yelcamino]

So I just finished building a cold air box. It turned out decent enough considering I don't weld aluminum very often.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50243885288_19e3974360_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3Ch)20200818_194028 (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3Ch) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50243885438_fafc855541_h-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3ES)20200817_205629 (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3ES) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50243885538_9c32ee3612_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3GA)20200817_195743 (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3GA) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

At the bottom of the box are five small holes. There is another piece that will be riveted in place once the box is installed to stay. The piece will close the gap at the bottom.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50243885633_1f1b0dec5e_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3Je)20200817_195722 (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3Je) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Air will come in through holes in the core support just to the side of the radiator opening and also from around the headlights. I still need to drill the holes but I'll do that before I take it to powder coat.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50243908408_1efbd295b0_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jxTauU)20200709_181512 (https://flic.kr/p/2jxTauU) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[raustinss]

Nice work ... one question why not just make the front open or open with mesh instead of the 5 holes ?

[Yelcamino]

Nice work ... one question why not just make the front open or open with mesh instead of the 5 holes ?

Thanks! Originally I was going to just cut that section open and put screen of some sort in place. But then I remembered Ridetech has these cool little aluminum bezels with screen that they use on the AirPod covers. I figured it would be easier to drill some holes and pop these guys in place vs mounting a screen.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50251074367_b72c626b39_c-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jyvTFV)10147 (https://flic.kr/p/2jyvTFV) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[Yelcamino]

The other day I put the hood on to make sure the air box cleared (plenty of room) and then rolled it outside for some current pics and video...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50250869876_1d572f0040_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jyuQUd)10143 (https://flic.kr/p/2jyuQUd) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50250870031_9582850776_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jyuQWT)10144 (https://flic.kr/p/2jyuQWT) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Then I brought Yelcamino around so they could get reacquainted!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50250220218_9bba65ce74_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jyrvMd)10146 (https://flic.kr/p/2jyrvMd) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I haven't done any actual measurements, but side by side, I think the Chevelle is a tad lower...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50250869761_6469313785_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jyuQSe)10145 (https://flic.kr/p/2jyuQSe) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And with special thanks to Andrew for the awesome Holley EFI tune he provided, she sounds awesome!

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[ICrombie]

This thing is awesome!
Would you mind sharing some details about that tilton pedal box you have (pedal ratio & MC sizes)? I'm looking at using a similar firewall mounted setup but would like to see how the pedal feel is since it seems like it would require a fair amount of pedal force to lock up the tires (125+ lbs)

[Yelcamino]

This thing is awesome!
Would you mind sharing some details about that tilton pedal box you have (pedal ratio & MC sizes)? I'm looking at using a similar firewall mounted setup but would like to see how the pedal feel is since it seems like it would require a fair amount of pedal force to lock up the tires (125+ lbs)

Thanks! The pedals are the Tilton 600 series floor mount (https://tiltonracing.com/product/600-series-3-pedal-floor-mount-assembly/) with adjustable pedal ratio (5.29:1, 5.44:1, 5.61:1, 5.75:1). I went with a 13/16" MC for the front brakes, a 3/4" for the rear, and a 3/4" for the clutch. I will have a proportioning valve in the rear brake line within reach of the driver seat and a dash wheel for the balance bar. I'll see how that works but everything is changeable!

[ICrombie]

Thanks! The pedals are the Tilton 600 series floor mount (https://tiltonracing.com/product/600-series-3-pedal-floor-mount-assembly/) with adjustable pedal ratio (5.29:1, 5.44:1, 5.61:1, 5.75:1). I went with a 13/16" MC for the front brakes, a 3/4" for the rear, and a 3/4" for the clutch. I will have a proportioning valve in the rear brake line within reach of the driver seat and a dash wheel for the balance bar. I'll see how that works but everything is changeable!

Yeah I was thinking 13/16 as well, which is just a bit smaller than what most other people are using on manual setups. Interested to see how it works, hopefully it works well because those master aren't cheap lol

[Yelcamino]

Yeah I was thinking 13/16 as well, which is just a bit smaller than what most other people are using on manual setups. Interested to see how it works, hopefully it works well because those master aren't cheap lol

I'll see how it works. Yes the MC's aren't cheap, but they're not crazy expensive so if I have to go with a different size, it won't kill me.

[Yelcamino]

Hey everyone! I've been away from the forums for about a year(!) but I have a valid excuse... I've been busy getting the Chevelle up and going! I took it to my first event last weekend, the Driveautox at Grissom in Peru, IN.

Overall the car did awesome! I didn't win and I wasn't the fastest by any stretch, but I did get to push the car, play with some shock adjustments, and have a blast! I think as I learn the car we will get faster and better.

Here are some videos and pics from the weekend.

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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51357179108_c4ef286862_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mffY6j)20210731_081746 (https://flic.kr/p/2mffY6j) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51356209182_a3836dcdae_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mfaZLs)20210801_081131 (https://flic.kr/p/2mfaZLs) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51357178518_9dd7441184_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mffXV9)20210801_112515 (https://flic.kr/p/2mffXV9) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And here are a couple of interior shots now that it's done...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51357179533_db43d67f8d_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mffYdD)20210728_192103 (https://flic.kr/p/2mffYdD) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51357688859_52b9331190_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mfizC8)20210728_192159 (https://flic.kr/p/2mfizC8) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[andrewb70]

Glad we're getting the tuning sorted out!

Andrew

[David Sloan]

Car looks and sounds awesome Herb!

[Yelcamino]

Glad we're getting the tuning sorted out!

Andrew

Yes we are! :cheers:

- - - Updated - - -


Car looks and sounds awesome Herb!

Thanks David!

[Bob in St. Louis]

All around GREAT looking car, sounds awesome!

[Yelcamino]

All around GREAT looking car, sounds awesome!

Thanks Bob!

[Yelcamino]

More progress on my attempt at adding downforce to a brick!

For the most part, this car has always had a front spoiler with a very small splitter. Was it effective? I have no idea. However, after doing some reading and seeing what successful racers have done, I decided to improve (I hope) my aero situation.

The first step was choosing material - in this case Sande plywood from HD. It was the least expensive of the nice plywood. Then I drew a pattern and transferred it to the plywood, cut it out, etc. In an effort to reduce weight, I used a router to cut some pockets in it.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51385604452_ffc3d9bbb9_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhLDXs)20210810_142149 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhLDXs) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51386361211_4b3dc7559b_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhQwV2)20210810_162346 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhQwV2) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Then I fabbed a pair of splitter ramps because they add downforce without adding drag.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51385604402_f9c4fe4c93_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhLDWA)20210811_140957 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhLDWA) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51387100514_bb5bf6daa1_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhUjFC)20210811_150640 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhUjFC) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And because all the cool kids are doing it, I made some end plates.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51386609578_3c4894f740_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNKd)20210814_140831 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNKd) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Because this slab of wood will be on a car in various environments, I coated it in DIY bedliner that was left over from my C10.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51386609618_70cf308823_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNKU)20210814_142722 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNKU) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The final product...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51386609558_9726d955d6_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNJS)20210814_164222 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNJS) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And installed...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51386609538_1ce03714eb_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNJw)20210815_141049 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNJw) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51385604357_0f84a311ac_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhLDVP)20210816_182620 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhLDVP) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

After a quick drive I measured my ground clearance at 4". The lowest part of the car is the passenger side link for the Watts. If you look close you can see it back there by the tire.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51386361166_7f8465b3c7_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhQwUf)20210815_181134 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhQwUf) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

This last one is just because it's a good pic. :)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51386361121_de7b17d26e_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhQwTt)20210816_181219 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhQwTt) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[andrewb70]

She is looking mean!

Andrew

[jetmech442]

Absolutely epic!! MY memory lately is such trash, that I went through your thread to enjoy the goodness, and realized I had posted twice already lol. Third time around and I'm still digging every aspect, great job man. If we ever happen to be at Gingerman at the same time, I'll be sure to park mine behind the outhouse to avoid comparison to yours. :cheers:

[Yelcamino]

She is looking mean!

Andrew

Thanks Andrew!

- - - Updated - - -


Absolutely epic!! MY memory lately is such trash, that I went through your thread to enjoy the goodness, and realized I had posted twice already lol. Third time around and I'm still digging every aspect, great job man. If we ever happen to be at Gingerman at the same time, I'll be sure to park mine behind the outhouse to avoid comparison to yours. :cheers:

Thanks! I'm hoping to be at Gingerman next year so keep a look out for me!

[Yelcamino]

Last weekend I brought the Chevelle to the Northeast Musclecar Challenge. This was the first road course I've had it on and it impressed me. It went where I pointed it, the power was awesome, it felt planted, and considering the brakes are standard Baer 6P with Bluestuff pads, it stopped on a dime! So overall the car did well, placed about mid pack on the road course and autox. With more seat time, it can only get better!


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[thumper877]

Awesome job. That road course looks like a blast. Love the car

[Alwhite00]

Amazing build with outstanding craftsmanship. Did you tint your side glass or is that the grey tinted glass kit you can buy?

[F pilot]

Herb, as I said a year and a half ago, your build is humbling to many of us. I have just finished my 67 Chevelle and it would be great to have a picture of them side by side.

[Yelcamino]

Awesome job. That road course looks like a blast. Love the car

Thanks! And yes Pittrace is a fun track!


Amazing build with outstanding craftsmanship. Did you tint your side glass or is that the grey tinted glass kit you can buy?

Thanks! The windows were tinted many moons ago when I was stationed in VA.


Herb, as I said a year and a half ago, your build is humbling to many of us. I have just finished my 67 Chevelle and it would be great to have a picture of them side by side.

Thanks! The Chevelle is always willing to get in front of a camera! :cheers:

[Yelcamino]

Last weekend I entered the Chevelle in the Optima USCA event at NCM. Overall it was a good time but there are still some teething pains that I need to work out, but mainly I need to learn how to drive this thing!

On Saturday morning I was having a hard time getting around the autox. The course was a bit long in areas to stay in first, so I had to shift into second. I'm trying to learn left foot braking but when I throw in a shift here and there, things didn't work out the best! In the afternoon I went back to right foot braking and added some compression to the rear shocks and things started to improve to the tune of dropping about 7 seconds off my morning runs.

On Sunday was the road course, which was fun but I noticed a vibration in the car after going into a turn a little too hot and driving over the rumble strips (more like huge speed bumps). By the third session I decided to come in and not chance it with the vibes getting worse.

One of the coolest things of this event - and a huge surprise to me - I won the Driver's Choice award! That was nice knowing my fellow drivers liked my car enough to select it. :twothumbs

After I unpacked the trailer, I put the car on the lift to inspect it and everything structural is still in tact! All my welds look good, nothing is bent, and the wheels are still round! I think the vibrations are coming from the clutch, but I won't know for sure until I have a chance to pull the trans.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/10/51595813110_e9cbcbd5c3_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mBm2EE)20211008_134713 (https://flic.kr/p/2mBm2EE) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/10/51595142788_27c79fccf0_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mBhApo)20211009_170451 (https://flic.kr/p/2mBhApo) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/10/51594921396_245acf5158_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mBgsAh)20211009_173705 (https://flic.kr/p/2mBgsAh) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/10/51595813185_384c5c0311_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mBm2FX)herb-lumpp-1966-chevrolet-chevelle-driveoptima-ncm-2021-(107) (https://flic.kr/p/2mBm2FX) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/10/51594921326_14cba29ea5_c-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mBgsz5)IMG_0892 (https://flic.kr/p/2mBgsz5) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/10/51594921311_cbf881a363_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mBgsyP)IMG_0899 (https://flic.kr/p/2mBgsyP) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/10/51594105487_ff774ba1af_h-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mBch3T)20211010_180119 (https://flic.kr/p/2mBch3T) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

[Bob in St. Louis]

Congrats on the award, that's huge! Great looking car man, I love it!

[Yelcamino]

Congrats on the award, that's huge! Great looking car man, I love it!

Thanks Bob!

[F pilot]

What a cool car.

[Yelcamino]

What a cool car.

Thanks!

[ProTouringMan]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/08/48577104222_eed30c347c_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1AmFG)10132 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1AmFG) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr


Absolutely incredible project! How are you managing the interface between the body and the new floor/cage you've built? Did you add a lip around the edges (dash, side sills, parcel shelf) and some sort of sealer or rubber gasket? Have you had to reinforce the body shell so it doesn't flex or warp when lifting on/off?

[Yelcamino]

Absolutely incredible project! How are you managing the interface between the body and the new floor/cage you've built? Did you add a lip around the edges (dash, side sills, parcel shelf) and some sort of sealer or rubber gasket? Have you had to reinforce the body shell so it doesn't flex or warp when lifting on/off?

Thanks! The body was only removed to make it easier to build the cage. Once all the construction was completed, the body was permanently attached to the chassis. After I had the body positioned, I bolted it to the frame using the two original body mounts under the firewall, the two at the rear bumper, and the two core support mounts. From there I welded the body to the frame at the door sills. Next I replaced sheetmetal at the firewall and the rear bulkhead between the interior and the trunk. I still need to attach the A pillars to the cage, which I'll do when I get a new windshield.

[ProTouringMan]

Thanks! The body was only removed to make it easier to build the cage. Once all the construction was completed, the body was permanently attached to the chassis. After I had the body positioned, I bolted it to the frame using the two original body mounts under the firewall, the two at the rear bumper, and the two core support mounts. From there I welded the body to the frame at the door sills. Next I replaced sheetmetal at the firewall and the rear bulkhead between the interior and the trunk. I still need to attach the A pillars to the cage, which I'll do when I get a new windshield.

Thanks for the great reply Yelcamino. Did you switch from polyurethane body mounts to solid? Do you plan on mating the cage to the more locations in addition to the A pillars such as the B pillars behind the doors?

Sorry for asking so many specific questions, installing a roll cage in an older framed vehicle comes with interesting choices - especially when the original frame rails are inside the seat rails.

[Yelcamino]

Thanks for the great reply Yelcamino. Did you switch from polyurethane body mounts to solid? Do you plan on mating the cage to the more locations in addition to the A pillars such as the B pillars behind the doors?

Sorry for asking so many specific questions, installing a roll cage in an older framed vehicle comes with interesting choices - especially when the original frame rails are inside the seat rails.

You're welcome! The body mount positions I used are directly to the frame, no bushings of any sort. I think the A pillar connections will be enough.