69 firebird T/A convertible

[SamHatco]

That is turning out to be one gorgeous bird Sam. Great job. I love all your detail.

Sam,

The car is turning out better than I have invisioned. Thank you for the compliments.

Sam

[cdoggy81]

Thanks Sam. That makes sense as they match up perfectly with the stock GTO cluster.
If the ticking doesn't go away a good place I found a LOT of answers at is the: www.LS1gto.com forum.

Keep up the good work & can't wait to see more of it!!!!!!!!!!

[zman1969]

Great job Sam! looks like I'll be the last of the 3 T/A clones on here to get mine running :candle: I'm glad someone is getting it done. ready for a test drive here - I need some inspiration my bodyman is slowly getting the repop fenders fit- then hood and nose, so it will be next year for me for sure- keep at it!

[SamHatco]

Great job Sam! looks like I'll be the last of the 3 T/A clones on here to get mine running :candle: I'm glad someone is getting it done. ready for a test drive here - I need some inspiration my bodyman is slowly getting the repop fenders fit- then hood and nose, so it will be next year for me for sure- keep at it!

Thanks, Rich!

Still sorting out wiring, so will be working on that for awhile, but it sure feels great to see that the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter.

Sam

[Young Gun]

looks fantastic Sam!

[steve g]

Great to see the progress Sam!

[68400BIRD]

Looking good keep, up the great work.

[SamHatco]

It's time for a little progress report. I have just about completed the wiring.... taillights, stop/turn rear, power windows, power door locks, convertible top and I even got the vintage air a/c working (no freon in the system but the fan is blowing). All of the guages are working as well as the dashlights :revto9k:. I also figured out why the fuel gauge wasn't working. The sending unit ground wire was not making good contact with the sending unit body so the unit was not properly grounding. Once we determined that, the gauge started working (there goes a week's worth of head scratching:banghead:). I also determined that you have to be very very patient.

Electrical isn't my strongest suit, but with perserverence and patience, (...did I say patience?), I worked through it. It also helps to have good service manuals, of which, the GTO was not the best I have seen. There were soo many errors in the manuals that I don't know how the mechanics can work on them. Anyway, here are a few pics

Before

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/27994274997-1.jpg

During
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/27994283148-1.jpg

After
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/27994283149-1.jpg

Next up wiring up the headlights and the infamous Mark VIII fan.

Sam

[Motown 454]

Nice ! you gave me chills with that first picture thinking I'm in for that too with my car. I'm using an AAW classic update harness .

[nvr2fst]

Just went through the majority of your build thread Sam. Impressive to say the least. Nicely done you most be stoked. I havent checked this build till now. I need to come over to this site more often.

Question! I wasnt aware that Synister drive systems were still around. I know that company has had issues in the past with commitment to customers. Is Southern an exclusive dealer handling them now. It seems your recieved your product in a timely manner.

[SamHatco]

Nice ! you gave me chills with that first picture thinking I'm in for that too with my car. I'm using an AAW classic update harness .

LOL! Yes, it was intimidating at first, but you just have to concentrate on one item at a time. There were over 80 wires in just the main harness. I'm sure there are easier ways to do this, but this was my first time to work with computer controlled systems and I wanted to be sure I didn't eliminate a wire or circuit that the computer needed.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Just went through the majority of your build thread Sam. Impressive to say the least. Nicely done you most be stoked. I havent checked this build till now. I need to come over to this site more often.

Question! I wasnt aware that Synister drive systems were still around. I know that company has had issues in the past with commitment to customers. Is Southern an exclusive dealer handling them now. It seems your recieved your product in a timely manner.


Thanks Dave. I don't know if Southern Performance is exclusive or not with Synister, but there service was timely and they answered my questions.

Sam

[SamHatco]

First off I want to thank Kevin a/k/a 85SS for sharing his knowledge and his help with this project. I have been trying to figure a way to wire the infamous Mark VIII two speed fan with the big amp draw. After receiving schematics from Kevin and hunting down the necessary relays and wiring I was googling the Mark VIII fan and came across this web site http://www.hollisterroad.com. My prayors have been answered! Better yet they are in Houston, which is a hop, skip, and a jump from me. So I gave them a call, told them my needs and this is what they sent me

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/27994283152-1.jpg

Now this is a pretty robust relay system and the instructions for wiring was spot on. This was probably the easiest part of the wirings so far. Here is a picture of the installed system

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/27994283155-1.jpg

Glad that is done. I haven't tried the system to see if it works, but if quality of product is any indicater for operation then, no doubt, this should work as advertized.

Hope this information helps.

Sam

[Motown 454]

That looks like a nice setup . I'll remember when I install mine.

[msgnfg]

Wow Sam, I re-read the whole post again tonight! I was secretly hoping you were done by the time I got to the end. I suppose I will need to keep checking back now for more. Keep up the great work!

[Josue]

^I keep hoping for the SAME thing! hahaha

I just joined a few days ago, so I'm playing catch up with all these build threads, and I gotta tell ya, I'm a little dissapointed to get to the end of a 14-17 page build thread only to see the project isn't completed yet. I don't think I've seen 1 project from start to finish on here yet?

I know it takes time to do this stuff though, and I can only imagine what kind of anticipation the owners of these cars are going through! We still get as anxious as them though! lol

Absolutly amazing work on the build Sam, and like everyone else, can't WAIT to see it done!

[Gregster]

Hi Sam,
I just purchased a 06 GTO Interior to do my swap and you are the only one I have found doing this, if you dont mind can I get some info in the future such as the dash and seats.

[SamHatco]

Well, its been a while since my last update, but it's not because I haven't been busy. Things I got done since the last report is a follows:

1. Completed all the wiring and all systems are a go,
2. Installed the front clip, and hood, still waiting for bumpers from chrome shop,
3. Found a power steering leak and remade new return hose,
4. Had a faulty oil pressure gauge and found nick in wire, repaired that.

Backed the car out of the garage for the first time under its own power, here are some pics of the car outside:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994285208-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994285207-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994285206-1.jpg

Those pics were from a couple of weeks ago. This the care as it sits now. Exterior is completed except for the bumpers (Still waiting on the chromers)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287667-1.jpg

Engine Bay

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287668-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287669-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287670-1.jpg

I've GOT to do something about that yellow dipstick. Any suggestion?

I couldn't stand it so I bolted in the driver seat and took the car around the block. The engine is running real rich and will have to address that with the tuner. Also I have a nagging ABS fault and Traction Control fault. Hope the tuner can removed those items. While I was driving around the block to just get the feel of the car I got a little frisky and punched it a little bit, OMG WOW, this thing is going to be quick (Note to self...Bleed brakes again)! Next, the interior.

This is really beginning to be fun now that it is finally coming together.

Sam

[69TAPoser]

Wow wow wow :jawdrop:

[69TA]

Nicest 69' "custom" trans am tribute/clone car to date. Great job.

[68400BIRD]

The car is looking great. I would try painting the dip stick handle with some plastic paint or dip it in a can of the black liquid rubber. The stuff that they sell at the hardware stores (Plasticoat) for putting rubber handles on your old tools. Again the car is looking awesome.

[LeighP]

really fine looking car.....love the classic Pontiac white/blue colour scheme.

[SamHatco]

Thanks guys,

Here are a couple more pictures:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287781-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287782-1.jpg

IMHO I think the trans am hood is the best looking of the muscle car era. I just may be biased.

Got the decals installed. These are factory reproductions from Phoenix Graphics, but the letters are more of a teal color and they just quite don't match the stripes. I don't know, the jury is still out on this.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287783-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287784-1.jpg

Sam

[dropit69]

awseome job Sam..loving it !!! Congrats..

[Rybar]

Wow, that is one beautiful bird for sure. I love everything you have done Sam.

One suggestion, try running that Lokar throttle cable under the passenger side coil cover to clean up that look and hide it.

[SamHatco]

Wow, that is one beautiful bird for sure. I love everything you have done Sam.

One suggestion, try running that Lokar throttle cable under the passenger side coil cover to clean up that look and hide it.

Thanks, I tried that but the issue is when the cable exits out from under the cover. The throttle cable is too far to the right.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287668-1.jpg

Sam

[SamHatco]

Wow Sam, I re-read the whole post again tonight! I was secretly hoping you were done by the time I got to the end. I suppose I will need to keep checking back now for more. Keep up the great work!

Thanks, Neil. I'm getting close. Concentrating on the interior now.

Sam

[SamHatco]

^I keep hoping for the SAME thing! hahaha

I just joined a few days ago, so I'm playing catch up with all these build threads, and I gotta tell ya, I'm a little dissapointed to get to the end of a 14-17 page build thread only to see the project isn't completed yet. I don't think I've seen 1 project from start to finish on here yet?

I know it takes time to do this stuff though, and I can only imagine what kind of anticipation the owners of these cars are going through! We still get as anxious as them though! lol

Absolutly amazing work on the build Sam, and like everyone else, can't WAIT to see it done!

Josue, I remember when my bird looked like yours, 2 1/2 years ago. The main thing to remember is patience. Take your time, think out your build and execute to the best of your pocket book and ability.

Sam

[dhutton]

Beautiful Sam. Your hood fits a lot better than my metal framed one does. How did you like assembling and aligning that front end grille etc?

[Josue]

Sound advice Sam!

I know everyone probably thinks this at the beginning of their projects, but I'm pretty confident that we can get ours done in a fairly reasonable amount of time, as long as mom (the breadwinner...lol) keeps the money coming. Of if I can continue to pick up parts bills here and there, since they'll be taking that money off the purchase price of the 68.

We're just going an original restoration on it, nothing wild and crazy like you folks! haha I know for SURE that it'll take longer than we think, I'm just trying to stay optimistic. If I start thinking down about it now, I'll start loosing motivation already!

[SamHatco]

Beautiful Sam. Your hood fits a lot better than my metal framed one does. How did you like assembling and aligning that front end grille etc?

Thanks Don. I believe I would rather have my wisdom teeth pulled than try to align the front bumper on these birds, makes you want to take up more drinking. :Alchy: Honestly, I don't know how those guys back in 69 did it every 7 or 8 minutes. They must have had some type of jig set up so they could slap the front together. Anyway its almost lined up and I will be able to finish when I get my bumpers from the chrome shop (whenever that is).

Sam

[Motown 454]

Sam the car looks great I'm so jelous, but happy for you.
How about the rubber stuff they sell to dip the handle of tools for your dipstick. They have it in different colors. That first ride must have felt sooooooooo good!

[SamHatco]

Sam the car looks great I'm so jelous, but happy for you.
How about the rubber stuff they sell to dip the handle of tools for your dipstick. They have it in different colors.

I don't know, I was thinking more in the line of aluminum or chrome.


That first ride must have felt sooooooooo good!

Yeah, I was grinning from ear to ear when I pulled back into the drive way. I must be getting old, because I don't remember my 70 Grand Prix with its 350 horse 400 poncho being THAT responsive compared to the LS1. I mean when I tapped the gas the car just wanted to goooooooo. The response was immediate, which I just love, and it idles so smooth even with it running so rich right now. Aint progress wonderful?

Sam

[cdoggy81]

Sam, I may have a spare billet alum. dipstick for you..' Let me see if I can find it this weekend when I get back into town.

[CarlC]

Sam, I super-dig your car. Very nicely and tastefully done.

Here's a pic of my Lokar dipstick. I had to make a special "Z" bracket for the upper mount to clear the headers, but it fits very well and hides nicely under the #4 plug wire. It can be checked easily without disturbing the wire. It's just the standard LS1 universal type.

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

[SamHatco]

Sam, I may have a spare billet alum. dipstick for you..' Let me see if I can find it this weekend when I get back into town.

Thanks! Awsome.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Sam, I super-dig your car. Very nicely and tastefully done.

Here's a pic of my Lokar dipstick. I had to make a special "Z" bracket for the upper mount to clear the headers, but it fits very well and hides nicely under the #4 plug wire. It can be checked easily without disturbing the wire. It's just the standard LS1 universal type.

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

Thanks for the info Carl, I'll check into that.

Sam

[steve g]

Love the car Sam. I know what you mean about the bumper. I still can't get my passenger side headlight surround snugged up as far as I would like.

[SamHatco]

Well guys, I finally got the dash pretty much finish up and it looks like its going to look awsome when the upholsterer gets it covered, here are a few shots of the progress so far

Passenger side closeout with the passenger a/c vent relocated from the door to the dash
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287715-1.jpg

Driver side closeout. There isn't enough room to locate the driver a/c vent from the door, so it looks like form over function will win this battle
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287714-1.jpg

View of the how the dash follows the cowl
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287716-1.jpg

And the money shot of the dash
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287708-1.jpg

I've got a few more details to work out but this is basically what it will look like.

That's all for now.

Sam

[Motown 454]

Sweet looking Sam! Nice work.

[zman1969]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287781-1.jpg
Sam this thing is looking so Cool, my hats off to you, wanna give out some pointers on assembling the front end? I really have no clue and mine is coming soon, bet all of us Firebird guys would like a how to thread on that!

[Motown 454]

It looks like it would suck you up if you got too close. Thats an awesome view.

[68Formula]

Almost 2 1/2 years in the making, but man is it going to be sweat! Keep chipping away at it, the home stretch is coming up!

[T_Raven]

lookin good

[LeighP]

Nice work...that dash looks great in there.

[SamHatco]

Sam this thing is looking so kool my hats off to you, wanna give out some pointers on assembling the front end? I really have no clue and mine is coming soon, bet all of us Firebird guys would like a how to thread on that!



Thanks Richard. OK I'll try.

First thing you need to do is get a 30 pack of your favorite beer or quart of your favorite whiskey. Open 30 pack/whiskey. Drink a beer/whiskey. Study the following picture. Drink another beer/whiskey. Study picture. Drink another beer/whiskey. You kinda get where I'm going with this. LOL, no seriously, you have to study this drawing.

I got this from the firebird assembly manual and studied this to make certain, first of all, that I had all the pieces and they were oriented correctly. Then I assembled the entire front grill off the car. I left everything loose. With my son helping me we lifted the bumper assembly onto to the car and loosely bolted it to the frame. Now the fun part begins. You start moving the various components up, down, left, or right until you get every thing aligned. It's as simple as that. It only took me 4 days. Have fun, hope this helps.

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

[SamHatco]

lookin good


Nice work...that dash looks great in there.


Almost 2 1/2 years in the making, but man is it going to be sweat! Keep chipping away at it, the home stretch is coming up!

Thanks, guys, it's been a fun challenge so far. (Except for the front grill)

Sam

[SamHatco]

Got a pleasant surprise from the Dept of Transportation today!



I couldn't believe I got this plate. I was certain this was already taken, but when I found out it was available I snatched it up. The color even goes with the car.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994288807-1.jpg

Got the bumpers from the chrome shop also so I got those installed. Now its really looking like a trans am! Is that plate supposed to be that low? I installed it in the available holes. I think I'll try to move it up to cover the gas cap hole. What did you guys do on your 69s?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994288808-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994288809-1.jpg

Front is all done except for the lower baffle pan and spoiler. Will hopefully get those on this evening. Boy I'm glad that is over with.

Sam

[cdoggy81]

Couldn't find the dipstick this weekend... :( but I did find a pic & where to get them :)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/attachmentphpattachmentid66260stc1d11897-1.jpg

they are $30 plain & $40 with the engraving & can be found here:

http://www.ls1gto.com/forums/showthread.php?t=187885&highlight=dipstick+oil

Hope this helps.

[zman1969]

Thanks Richard. OK I'll try.

First thing you need to do is get a 30 pack of your favorite beer or quart of your favorite whiskey. Open 30 pack/whiskey. Drink a beer/whiskey. Study the following picture. Drink another beer/whiskey. Study picture. Drink another beer/whiskey. You kinda get where I'm going with this. LOL, no seriously, you have to study this drawing.

I got this from the firebird assembly manual and studied this to make certain, first of all, that I had all the pieces and they were oriented correctly. Then I assembled the entire front grill off the car. I left everything loose. With my son helping me we lifted the bumper assembly onto to the car and loosely bolted it to the frame. Now the fun part begins. You start moving the various components up, down, left, or right until you get every thing aligned. It's as simple as that. It only took me 4 days. Have fun, hope this helps.


Sam I got the 30 pack idea fine but took 4 days? really dont see that being enough so I'll need this and freshly filled
and some friends! thanks for the photo! it give some clue as I never have had it apart

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/P3080513-1.jpg

[SamHatco]

Sam I got the 30 pack idea fine but took 4 days? really dont see that being enough so I'll need this and freshly filled
and some friends! thanks for the photo! it give some clue as I never have had it apart

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/P3080513-1.jpg


LOL! That'l work!. I've got to get me one of those!

Sam

[SamHatco]

What was once a gto dash....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994290976-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994290969-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994287708-1.jpg



Is now a firebird dash :smoke:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994290971-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994290972-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994290973-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994290974-1.jpg

I also got the windshield installed.....getting closer.

Sam

[icebird84]

looks good

[Lenie]

Sam, I wish I had your drive. Looks good.

[SamHatco]

looks good



Sam, I wish I had your drive. Looks good.

Thanks, guys.

Sam

[classiccardude69]

Damn! Those gauges look bad ass with the bird on them!!!! Awesome project.

[SamHatco]

I'm moving on to the rear qtr panels and doors.

This is what I've done so far:

The rear qtr panels are made up three separate pieces so I riveted them together for a better fit. I plan on installing a 6.5" Infinity Kappa speaker where the white area is.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994290983-1.jpg

Started mocking up the GTO panel to the door by cutting and fitting. I think it is going to work. The bottom on the GTO door is the same width as the firebird door, so all I have to do is kinda square it up to the firebird door.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994290984-1.jpg

Sam

[SamHatco]

Here is another pic of some additional trimming:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994290985-1.jpg

Sam

[wellis77]

Looking good Sam. I love your build and especially how you are making use of all the interior parts.

[68400BIRD]

You are doing some amazing work. Sooo will the air bags work? Your still coming over to help me on mine right? LOL Keep up the great work.

[LeighP]

Nice work, love the dash.

[SamHatco]

Looking good Sam. I love your build and especially how you are making use of all the interior parts.


You are doing some amazing work. Sooo will the air bags work? Your still coming over to help me on mine right? LOL Keep up the great work.


Nice work, love the dash.

Thanks guys, yeah it's a labor of love now. I can see the end in sight, can't stop now.

Sam

[KnightMare]

Great modding you got on the interior. Can wait to see how it's going to turn out on a convertible

[Motown 454]

The dash looks great Sam. The doors and quarters are coming out nice. Keep us posted.

[SamHatco]

Working like crazy trying to get the bird drivable. Our office was closed on Veterans Day, so my son and I decided to put the front seats in for my first real shake down drive. The plan was to make sure all systems are a go for state inspection, then at least I could drive it while finishing up the interior and trouble shooting any problems that may arise.

Put exactly 16 miles on the car, everything was cool, getting major stares from other motorist, thumbs up from pedestrians, ahhh life is good. Then all a sudden taking off from a stop light easliy, CLUNK, BAM, BAM, CLUNK! WTF!? :drive2: Transmission. Pushed the car to clear traffic and loaded it up on my trailer to haul back to the house.

Thursday night after work my son and I set about dropping the tranny for inspection all the time hoping it was the clutch. Dropped the tranny and when I grabbed the front input shaft I felt it wobble a little bit and when turning the shaft you could hear grinding. NOT GOOD. Yesterday, we took the tranny to LMR in Houston and their guy tore in down while we watched. Front main bearing toast....gears 1-4 heavily knifed (that was his term) toast.... front cover that holds the bearing race... toast, basically complete rebuild. I bought this transmission from a guy in Florida, who said it came out of an 05 GTO with 16,000 miles. Had to be really banged hard for those miles. This was one surprise I didn't need. :crying:

Also headlight aren't working. I'll post in electrical and wiring for help on this headache.

One step forward, Five steps backward.

Sam

[Motown 454]

Sorry to hear that Sam. Are you going to rebuild it or look for another drop out? If you rebuild are you going to up grade it? Again sorry to hear it.

[LeighP]

Well, that sucks...you'd think at those miles it'd be good. But I guess it must have been beat on for most of them to let go like that.

[SamHatco]

Sorry to hear that Sam. Are you going to rebuild it or look for another drop out? If you rebuild are you going to up grade it? Again sorry to hear it.

Going to do a rebuild. I took it to Late Model Racecraft in Houston. They are going to upgrade the gears, bearings, synchronizers, etc. and said they would guarantee the tranny to be good to 700 hp. They also give a 12 month/12,000 mile warranty with their rebuilds. Oh well, another lesson learned. Sure bites into interior budget though. I hate surprises like this. Luckily my wife wasn't with me. She would have been really pissed if it broke down on the road

Sam

[SamHatco]

Well, that sucks...you'd think at those miles it'd be good. But I guess it must have been beat on for most of them to let go like that.

Yeah...I'm pretty bummed out. The technician said if it had 16,000 miles, then it must have been one quarter mile at a time. He never saw the front bearing race loose like that in the front cover.

Sam

[454bug]

Man, Sam...

That sucks! I really hate it when someone sells you something when they know there's a problem... and hoping you don't come back on them...

At least you'll know it's done right when you get it back together.

The car is looking great!

That dash looks like a factory install! :1st:

Keep up the GREAT work!

[SamHatco]

Man, Sam...

That sucks! I really hate it when someone sells you something when they know there's a problem... and hoping you don't come back on them...

At least you'll know it's done right when you get it back together.

The car is looking great!

That dash looks like a factory install! :1st:

Keep up the GREAT work!

Yeah, thanks Ray,

I'm sure the guy I bought it from did'nt know it was trash. He told me he bought a complete engine tranny pull out from an 05 GTO at a salvage yard. The tranny looked really clean and the clutch and pressure plate looked about right for the mileage he was saying. Said he wanted to put engine in his 71 Chevelle, but wanted to use a 4l60E instead of the T-56. That's why he wanted to sell it. Anyway that's his story and he's sticken to it.

Sam

[transamguy79]

nice looking build man. one of the slickest things i've seen

[SamHatco]

nice looking build man. one of the slickest things i've seen

Thank you Transamguy79.

Sam

[transamguy79]

so was fitting that dash in a task or was it somewhat simple?

[gearheads78]

Sam its looks great. Sorry to hear about the trans but you should be in good hands with the LMR guys.

Did you ever get the ABS and track lights off? If its anything like an 4th gen Fbody those lights come on when the ground is broken via the ABS module. With the schematics you should be able to trace the wires that went through the module and just make them pemanently to ground. Thats what I did when I put a 12 bolt in my old TA.

[SamHatco]

Sam its looks great. Sorry to hear about the trans but you should be in good hands with the LMR guys.

Did you ever get the ABS and track lights off? If its anything like an 4th gen Fbody those lights come on when the ground is broken via the ABS module. With the schematics you should be able to trace the wires that went through the module and just make them pemanently to ground. Thats what I did when I put a 12 bolt in my old TA.

Hey Richard, thanks. LMR is probably going to do the tune and they said they could delete those codes.

Sam

[sunkistcamaro]

Sam,
Your doing a great job, Im very impressed!

[SamHatco]

so was fitting that dash in a task or was it somewhat simple?

Well.... I guess you could say that it was a somewhat simple task. The width of the dash is somewhat smaller than the distance between the A pillars on the firebird, but the dash itself in extremely deep front to back so there was a lot of trimming in order for it to fit. Once you get it set in place then you just have to make brackets to hold it. I have some pics of when I did the mod. https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showpost.php?p=360948&postcount=54

Sam

[SamHatco]

Sam,
Your doing a great job, Im very impressed!

Thanks, Bill

Sam

[cdoggy81]

Sorry to hear about the tranny :(
You are keeping me motivated with all the great work though Sam!!!

[msgnfg]

Nice work Sam - I really dig the way the dash is coming together. Looking forward to seeing the interior complete soon.

[fasbird]

Sam,

what an inspiration for me!! Great build so far. You cannot believe how many ideas you have given me, which will save me a lot of time trying to figure out things. I will be eagerly watching the build to completion.

I am doing something similar. I have a '71 Road Runner which is getting a 6.1 Hemi, already have a Keisler Tremec 5spd., and I am now going with 300C seats. I have not found the console I will integrate into the interior yet.

Gary

[SamHatco]

Sam,

what an inspiration for me!! Great build so far. You cannot believe how many ideas you have given me, which will save me a lot of time trying to figure out things. I will be eagerly watching the build to completion.

I am doing something similar. I have a '71 Road Runner which is getting a 6.1 Hemi, already have a Keisler Tremec 5spd., and I am now going with 300C seats. I have not found the console I will integrate into the interior yet.


Gary

Thanks, Gary!

This has been a really fun build. I'm glad I could be of some help to my fellow hotrodders, heaven knows, I've received a ton of ideas from others here. Right now I'm concentrating on the interior. Got the GTO radio wire up. Found out the cd player doesn't work. Seems like this is a pretty common problem with the new gen GTOs. Will probably get an aftermarket Nav system a little later, at least the radio works, so I got some tunes. I used Infinity Reference 4X6 speakers in the kick panel, Infinity Kappa 6.5 speakers in the rear quarter panels and will be installing 2 8" RE Audio subs between the rear GTO seats. I used a 5 channel Alpine PDX-5 amp. Boy, that amp is sure nice and is extremely compact. Put it in the trunk by the driver side fender. Will be finishing out the trunk so it will be tucked out of site (it's a shame because it's a really good looking piece. Will be posting some pictures next week of the progress. The interior is really turning out nice. Looks very OEM and thats my goal.

Sam

[SamHatco]

I thought I would post some progress pictures on the interior build. I finally completed the rear quarter panels here are a few shots of what I did:

The rear quarters are made up of three pieces, so I joined them together with brackets, rivets, and panel adhesive to make one panel
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/27994290983-1.jpg

Then I made some speaker rings out of 3/4 mdf board in order to flush mount the speakers:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/27994296084-1.jpg

Once that was done I covered the whole panel in fleece and soaked the fleece with fiberglass resin. After that I used bondo to smooth the entire piece and then covered the panel with vinyl. I'm sorry I didn't take pictures of that step, but here is the final product:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/27994296083-1.jpg

I then installed 6.5 inch infinity kappa speakers. I think they turned out pretty well.

Sam

[sunkistcamaro]

Holy Crap!
You got skills man, nice job!!

[barno68]

That is really sharp. Is the base formed from sheetmetal?

[Chicken Louie]

Wow!! Sam that is outstanding work!! I went throught the thread today and wow!! I am glad to see such a nice bird.

[68Formula]

I think they turned out pretty well.

Sam


That's because they did! Great job, Sam.

[SamHatco]

Holy Crap!
You got skills man, nice job!!

Thanks, Bill


That is really sharp. Is the base formed from sheetmetal?

Brent,
The base (grey primer parts) is formed from the factory panels and they are metal. The white part is from fiberglass board. Its the same stuff they use on shower stalls in bathrooms. You can get it in 4x8 sheets from Home Depot or Lowe's. Cost about $28.00. Water doesn't affect it and it is easy to cut, shape, and work with, so its perfect for door panels. It's better than luan and cardboard that some interior shops use IMHO.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Wow!! Sam that is outstanding work!! I went throught the thread today and wow!! I am glad to see such a nice bird.



That's because they did! Great job, Sam.


Thanks, guys!

[Nine Ball]

When is Sam's interior shop open for biz? Nice job on those rear quarters!

[SamHatco]

When is Sam's interior shop open for biz? Nice job on those rear quarters!

Thanks, Tony!

[dhutton]

I am looking forward to seeing this one completed. The quality and creativity are excellent.

[Hoosier]

I'm in the middle of disassembling a 2006 GTO and doing a similar build on a 69 camaro. For motor plates did you use the the standard carshop plates or the 1" set back plates? How much did you have to trim off the front of the dash? I believe I can modify the shifter mount to set back farther and not trim the dash. Do you think that would look awkward? I was hoping to use the dash substructure because I want to use the GTO A/C unit.

Thanks, Rusty

[sunkistcamaro]

Hi Rusty,
Im on the same track as you but with a 04 GTO.
I too plan on using the goat's A/C box. I made my own plates but Im going to make one more set because I want to push it back another 1/2" so I can reuse my 700r4 drive shaft.
Do you have a manual or automatic trans?
thanks,
Bill

[Motown 454]

Wow just saw the quarter panel sweet!

[SamHatco]

I am looking forward to seeing this one completed. The quality and creativity are excellent.

Thanks, Don

Sam

[SamHatco]

I'm in the middle of disassembling a 2006 GTO and doing a similar build on a 69 camaro. For motor plates did you use the the standard carshop plates or the 1" set back plates? How much did you have to trim off the front of the dash? I believe I can modify the shifter mount to set back farther and not trim the dash. Do you think that would look awkward? I was hoping to use the dash substructure because I want to use the GTO A/C unit.

Thanks, Rusty

Rusty,

For the carshop plates I don't know if they were the standard or 1" set back. When I purchased them they only had one style. You will have to trim quite a bit of the dash. I lost the defrost ducts. The way I did it was locate the shifter and console first as that is your anchor point for everything else. If your using the gto manual trans the shifter is farther back than, lets say, the 4th gen f bodies. If you tried not to trim the dash the shifter location in the console would be almost even with the back of the seat. Right now when I rest my elbow on the console the shifter falls right into my hand. It is in a very comfortable location. I too used the substructure of the dash and even if you trim the dash I believe you will have room for the factory a/c. There is quite a bit of room. The reason I didn't use the factory a/c was I didn't get it when I bought the interior.

Hope this helps,

Sam

[SamHatco]

Wow just saw the quarter panel sweet!

Thanks, Wayne. I'll have some more updates hopefully in the next couple of weeks. With the holidays coming up things get in the way of working on the car. Just completed modifying the rear GTO seat frames and will be working on the sub box. Seats will need to be recovered. I also found a killer deal on some BMW M3 convertible seats that have the shoulder harness built into the seat. Wow they are comfortable and you can adjust them 50 ways from Sunday. The firebird seats are about 22 inches wide and the BMW seats are just about the same width, so I'm pretty sure I can get them to fit. I'll post up how I installed them. I Just ordered the vert top. It will be the same top used on the Year One tribute trans am that was featured on Muscle Car TV. There is a punch list of things that have to be addressed, but I'm getting closer.

[Hoosier]

Sam,
I appreciate you sharing info, I'd probably like to ask some more questions as I move along with the swap. Maybe you'll be able to answer some questions when I get to the wiring ie, disabling some of the uneeded items like abs, fuel tank pressure switch etc. My plan is to use as much of the complete wiring harness as possible.

Thanks,
Rusty

[Hoosier]

Bill,
I've got the 6 speed. I picked up the 06 GTO for a really good price it only had 47,000 miles on it. I want to use as much of the car as possible to keep the cost down and sell what I don't use. I'd probably attempt to use the rearend and suspension, but I won a full set of BFG tires at a GoodGuys event prior to buying the GTO. I picked 335/30/18's and 245/40/18's and bought a set of 18"x12" Billet Specialties Draft wheels (the first set made) for the back. So, I guess I'm going the mini-tub route.

Rusty

[JLM]

Still loving to watch this car come together! Quality build for sure!

[19,69camaro]

Yikes what was the previous owner thinking. You are doing a great job by the way!

[thetoystore]

love the quarter inner panel for the speaker. thats clean, factory look'n work

[SamHatco]

Finally got the transmission back and installed last Wednesday. While the trans was at the shop I decided to upgrade the clutch to the LS7 clutch. Boy what a headache! Installed the tranny started the car and I couldn't get into any gear. I couldn't get the clutch to disengage. I could run thought the gears with the engine off, but not with the engine running. My first thought was hydraulics. So I bled the master cylinder and slave cylinder still no go. I fiddled with bleeding the master and slave for the better part of three nights after work. What a frustrating experience. Researched all over this forum and LS1tech. I found out the LS/t56 hydraulics are pretty finicky. Today, I decided to bleed the clutch the old school way which is to do a gravity bleed. I opened up my bleeder on the slave and took off the cap to the master and watched the fluid. I probably filled the master reservoir about three times. Buttoned her up and voilà, I have a clutch. :smoke: Glad that is done. I was afraid that I would have to pull the tranny again to see what was up.

[SamHatco]

While I was scratching my head with the tranny, I was working on installing the seats. I got a really good deal on a set of BMW M3 convertible seats. First off I want to thank Dave (Daredvl22) and Nick (Grantgb) for telling the rest of us about these awesome seats and answering my pms. A couple of comments over in the interior section led me to believe that these seats were too high. I can tell you guys for certain they are not. Here are a few pics comparing the BMW seats to my original seats

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/27994299151-1.jpg

Dimension wise they are pretty close the same width overall. The seat bottom in the above picture is exactly the same height as the 69 seat, however the BMW seat can still be lowered about 1" from its present position. The back is taller and wider, but is much more comfortable than the 69. The extra height is not an issue. The internal shoulder belt was probably my main motivation besides comfort for purchasing these seats. You can adjust them 50 way from Sunday. They just feel great to sit in.

Now for the install. This was easier than I thought it would be. The seat tracts are about 18" wide from outside to outside, so they are a snug fit when setting them on the floor, however they are flat and that made it easy to install. Each tract has bolt holes in them so I just positioned them where I wanted them to sit and drilled 7/16 holes and installed the bolts. The outside tracts have a couple of tabs that are riveted on that have to be removed, but they are for some trim pieces.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/27994299152-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/27994299153-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/27994299154-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/27994299155-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/27994299156-1.jpg

If you can get your hands on these seats, do it! They are soooo comfortable, you can adjust every which way, and they have the shoulder belt incorporated in them.

Sam

[sunkistcamaro]

Those are cool seats!
When your all done with this car I might have to catch a plane ride down to TX just to see it!!
As usual, looking good!

[amargari]

Those seats look awesome!! I have to keep an eye out for a set.

[Simbad68]

Nice job! The interior is really coming together.

[LeighP]

Sweet...love the seats. What did you have to do to reinforce the seat anchor points due to the seat mounted belt?

[Motown 454]

Those seats look sweet. I'll have to keep my eyes open for a set.

[SamHatco]

Those are cool seats!
When your all done with this car I might have to catch a plane ride down to TX just to see it!!
As usual, looking good!

Come on down, Bill, I'd love to show you the car in person.


Those seats look awesome!! I have to keep an eye out for a set.


Nice job! The interior is really coming together.

Thanks, guys.


Sweet...love the seats. What did you have to do to reinforce the seat anchor points due to the seat mounted belt?

I'm really happy with them. They are a little rough right now as they came out of a 2004 BMW that was totaled. I'm recovering them anyway. On the install, I have a different situation than those with a coup. The first gen fbody convertibles have an extra brace across the bottom of the car and I drilled all the way through the floor and the brace. I also used 7/16 grade 5 bolts with structural washers. I believe if I get hit hard enough to break out the bolts, I'm probably "toast" anyway. Let's hope I never have to find out.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Those seats look sweet. I'll have to keep my eyes open for a set.

Thanks, Wayne. I was pretty bummed out that the GTO seats were too wide for my purposes, but these seats really are better. The main driving force for getting these seats was the shoulder belt incorporated in the seat, plus they have all the features of the GTO seat and they fit the 1st gen much better.

Sam

[SamHatco]

After I finished installing the front BMW seats I have moved on to installing the rear GTO seats. I have seen several different ways guys have modified these seat to fit in their cars, so I don't think there is a wrong or right way to do this mod, this is just the way I decided to go. Maybe this will give you guys some ideas if you want to go with these seats.

The GTO seats are too tall for the convertible top to operate properly and the seat bottoms are too long. I took off the seat covers and foam to get to the seat frames so I could modify them to fit the trans am

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/27994299158-1.jpg

I cut the bottom seat frame in half and shorten the front to back distance and welded the frame back together. I then added a new piece of round bar to fit in the seat bottom bracket.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/27994299160-1.jpg

For the back seat frame I just cut off the upper hoop and welded some round bar for the feet of the back frame to match the floor of the trans am

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/27994299161-1.jpg

This is a pic of both frames installed.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/27994299159-1.jpg

Seat bottems will have to be trimmed at the back

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/27994299162-1.jpg
The tops of the seats will be trimmed to match the back firewall
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/27994299163-1.jpg

Now its just a matter of the upholstery shop shaping the seat foam to the frames and sewing on new covers. The seat tops will be held in place with the factory upper hook and screwed in place at the bottom. The seat bottoms will be held in place by the top and the factory bracket. That's the plan anyway. Hope this helps

Sam

[cdoggy81]

Good stuff Sam!!!

[CruizinKev]

very nice :twothumbs

[Josue]

Very cool!!!

[Motown 454]

Looking good.

[Smock67]

Just read through this entire thread and wow is about the only word I can think of to describe this. Im loving your car certainly the nicest 69 ta I've ever seen.

[SamHatco]

Good stuff Sam!!!


very nice :twothumbs


Very cool!!!


Looking good.


Just read through this entire thread and wow is about the only word I can think of to describe this. Im loving your car certainly the nicest 69 ta I've ever seen.

Thanks Guys, you don't know how much I appreciate your positive comments.

Sam

[BA.]

Great car to work with man. Looks like you're putting a lot of time into those seats but damn it's gonna be way-cool when you are done. Great work man!

[SamHatco]

Great car to work with man. Looks like you're putting a lot of time into those seats but damn it's gonna be way-cool when you are done. Great work man!

Thanks!

[msgnfg]

I realy enjoy how much thought you put into sharing your experience with us. The seats look great and rear panels look like they were made at the factory. Looking forward to your progress and posts in 2010!

[brianjw4]

Very nice build, really looks good.

I just purchased a GTO dash as well and am curious about how you made the climate controls work with the vintage air system. Did you adapt the vintage air controls onto the back of the GTO one?

If you have any more detail on this I would really appreciate it.

[cdoggy81]

page 4, post 66...

[sunkistcamaro]

Sam worked with the guys at VA to use the GTO's vacuum controls on there system.

[wmhjr]

A few things.....

First of all, great job - nicely done with lots of attention to detail in making it exactly what YOU want. I'm impressed.

Next: The M3 seats are excellent - loved them in my M3. HOWEVER, check them out along the rails. I - and others - did sometimes experience issues caused by wear that resulted in a little "rocking" of the seat assembly. It wasn't dangerous - it was just a little annoying. You'd brake hard into a corner and feel a little "clunk" - very slight - in the seat. I honestly have no idea what was causing it, but it wasn't just mine. It happened to others as well.

My personal tastes are that I'd prefer the lower backed seat from an asthetics in a 1st gen, but that's just me. If you're going to make them taller, the seat you've chosen is excellent.

[SamHatco]

It's been a few weeks since I last posted so I thought I would give you guys an update on what's going on. Got the convertible top on last week and the rear seats are at the upholstery shop as I type. Should have them back next week so I can start on the sub enclosure. The wife and I took a little ride last Sunday and I noticed the car wanted to wander at highway speeds. Called Lee manufacturing on Monday and ordered a 670 steering box from Tom Lee. Talked to him personally. Very nice guy and a world of knowledge. Should have the box tomorrow. I also noticed oil on the rear passenger wheel and check it out only to find that the axle seal is leaking. I'll have to fix that also. Still doing shake down drives to find all the bugs.

We had a pretty day to drive a weeks ago temp was around 50 so I took the bird out. Here are a couple of pics I took from my phone:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/27994304641-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/27994304643-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/27994304642-1.jpg

New years weekend the Houston firebird club, HALFTX (Houston Are Legendary Firebirds) cruised up to see my car. They make excuses to cruise anytime they can. We stopped at a local ice-house and had lunch, here is a picture of us all lined up. Every one a convertible, except of course the 40 ford.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/27994304644-1.jpg

Will keep you guys posted as progress develops

Sam

[steve g]

Great to see it on the road.

[Rybar]

Car looks Killer Sam, congrats on getting to the shakedown stage.

[Motown 454]

The car looks great Sam. It must feel great to go for a ride with those guys. A brand new car and good company, doesn't get any better than that.

[montessaj]

Man, I need to cruise on down to Huntsville to check this car out.

[LeighP]

Looks great...be interested to see how those back seats turn out..nice job.

[CruizinKev]

yeah looks great! :twothumbs

[gofastwclass]

Nice job. :)

Is the ram air functional? I remember seeing pics of the underside of the hood but I never saw a box connecting it to the engine.

[SamHatco]

Thanks guys, yeah its great to drive the car and work out the kinks. We're lucky down here with the weather. I know you guys up north start getting cabin fever right about now. We should start warming up in the next couple of weeks.




Nice job. :)

Is the ram air functional? I remember seeing pics of the underside of the hood but I never saw a box connecting it to the engine.

Not yet, but I plan on it being functional. I just haven't decided how I want to go about doing it. One thought would be using a panel across the bottom of the hood and cut a hole right above the throttle body, then take a 90* elbow from the maf sensor to mate up with the hole in the hood. Then use a narrow air filter between the hood and the lower panel. When you close the hood it would seal up to the 90* elbow. I haven't work out any clearances yet, so right now I'm just kicking around ideas.

Sam

[SamHatco]

UPS guy shows up! :yeah:

Just got my new power steering box from Lee Manufacturing. Everything said about this box is true. This thing is almost too nice to mount to the car.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/27994304734-1.jpg

Looks like I'll be busy tonight!

Sam

[Dalamar]

I just read through this thread and you've done some amazing work. Very nice job with a flair for custom - I like that.
The interior is looking awsome as well. :)

[SamHatco]

I just read through this thread and you've done some amazing work. Very nice job with a flair for custom - I like that.
The interior is looking awsome as well. :)

Thanks, Jeff, I've been following your build, also. You and your dad are doing great work on the mustang. I'm really interested in the rear suspension you guys are doing. Looks like a really slick setup.

Sam

[SamHatco]

I haven't posted in a while, but that doesn't mean I haven't been working on the car. Finally made enough progress to post up some pictures. I modified the frames of the GTO seats and built the sub box and installed the carpet. Got all the seats recovered and all that is left to do are the door panels and finish out the trunk. Here are pics of the progress:

The sub box will house 2 RE Audio 8" subs that will down fire against the back firewall.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311048-1.jpg

First mockup of the box. I'ts tight but it fits.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311049-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311050-1.jpg

I then cut strips of 3/4 mdf and glued and screwed them to make them follow the curve of the top.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311051-1.jpg

This is a view of the back. The speakers are recessed 2"

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311052-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311053-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311054-1.jpg

Sanded and filled the gaps with body filler and now I'm in the process of laying up abount 10 layers of fiberglass on top.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311055-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311056-1.jpg

After the glass cured, I marked it off to create a false speaker opening. I carefully popped off the glass cap and cut out the opening
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311057-1.jpg

This is a picture of the plug that I then layed out a 1/2" line to cut out a trim ring

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311058-1.jpg

Took a sub speaker grill and layed it under the cap and reassembled the cap to the box, blended the cap to the box and sanded smooth

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311059-1.jpg

Covered the box with material and added glove box emblem from a 69 firebird

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311060-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311062-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311063-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311065-1.jpg

hopefully will have completed the door panels this week and the interior will be done. Then finish out the trunk.

Sam

[CruizinKev]

wow that looks awesome! nice work :twothumbs

[shortrack]

wow that looks awesome! nice work :twothumbs

X2!....you had some great vision to come up with that also!

[pro-touringAK]

That looks great! How did you refit the rear seat leather cover? did you have them re-uphostered or did you use the original covers?

[FirstGenZq8]

that is a N I C E interior!

[SamHatco]

That looks great! How did you refit the rear seat leather cover? did you have them re-uphostered or did you use the original covers?

Thanks, I had the seats redone in Katzkin leather, its their dark choarcoal. You could reuse the original leather, you would just have your upholsterer recut the top panels. The front seats are BMW so recovered them all in the same material.

Sam

[67DropTop455]

Sam, that is simply awesome in every aspect! I love how somethings evolved as you went and how the detailed planning and vision has pulled it all together into one Tight highly detailed package.

I really like the way you went the extra mile to make all the mods work together with a true Pontiac theme, look and feel as if it were factory fresh. I hope you will consider the trek up to Colorado this summer for the Cannobird Run (all First Generation Firebird Event) I know Bjorn, Jerry, Andy and quite a few of the HALF guys will be going! By the way, next time you see them, tell the Brett said to say hello!

Great work man, would love to see it in person!

Brett (67 drop top 455, Seattle Chapter of HALF and Bay Area Firebird Group)

[SamHatco]

Sam, that is simply awesome in every aspect! I love how somethings evolved as you went and how the detailed planning and vision has pulled it all together into one Tight highly detailed package.

I really like the way you went the extra mile to make all the mods work together with a true Pontiac theme, look and feel as if it were factory fresh. I hope you will consider the trek up to Colorado this summer for the Cannobird Run (all First Generation Firebird Event) I know Bjorn, Jerry, Andy and quite a few of the HALF guys will be going! By the way, next time you see them, tell the Brett said to say hello!

Great work man, would love to see it in person!

Brett (67 drop top 455, Seattle Chapter of HALF and Bay Area Firebird Group)

Brett, thank you very much for the compliments. I would love to try and make the Cannonbird Run, but that is so far out on my calender, that I haven't scheduled it. My understanding that its in August and we usually are pretty busy at work so taking off may not work out. I'll tell the guys hello next time I see them.

Sam

[gearheads78]

Sam you keep it up at this pace its going to start to look like you know what you are doing. :smoke:

[67DropTop455]

Brett, thank you very much for the compliments. I would love to try and make the Cannonbird Run, but that is so far out on my calender, that I haven't scheduled it. My understanding that its in August and we usually are pretty busy at work so taking off may not work out. I'll tell the guys hello next time I see them.

Sam

Yeah, still the busy season for me at work to, but I'm going to do my best to try to get away for it. Especially with guys bringing their rigs from all over the country, kind of a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Keep up the great work!

Brett!

[montessaj]

That interior is AMAZING! Great Job!

[SamHatco]

Sam you keep it up at this pace its going to start to look like you know what you are doing. :smoke:

Hey Richard, thanks. Like my signature says, Jack of all trades, master of none, this site is like my encyclopedia. There are so maney talented guys here, you just can't help but learn new things.

Sam

[Jon69RagTop]

Sam

You are one talented guy, nice job and "Thanks" for posting the update.

[1971CHEVELLE]

Wow that looks awesome :1st:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311060-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311062-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994311063-1.jpg

[Lenie]

Attababy Sam. She's looking very nice.

[67SSDan]

Wow man, that turned out awesome!

Dan

[SamHatco]

Sam

You are one talented guy, nice job and "Thanks" for posting the update.


Wow that looks awesome :1st:


Attababy Sam. She's looking very nice.


Wow man, that turned out awesome!

Dan

Thanks, guys. I'll post some picture when it's outside in better light. Working on the door panels right now. I'm trying to use the GTO door panels and its taking a lot of head scratching to make them work, but I'm determined to use as much of the GTO as possible. We'll see.

Sam

[wmhjr]

Outstanding work! I have to be honest - though I'm a big fan of M3 seats, I'm not so much a fan of them in muscle cars - but everyone has different tastes. No matter the tastes however, you've done some excellent work here!

[Motown 454]

Sam That looks awesome! Puting the speaker grill in the middle of the seats is a great idea. Your making some great progress.

[Dalamar]

your interior looks awsome! nicely done.

[SamHatco]

Finally completed the interior just in time to take the trans am to it's first show tomorrow:bananna2:

Here is the process on how I built the door panels.

In keeping with the GTO interior theme I took a GTO door panel and cut the arm rest away from the door and mounted it to the panel with rivets

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312072-1.jpg

I then added florest foam blocks to build up the shape that I wanted and sanded them. After sanding them I placed a layer of fiber glass to make the initial form of the panels.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312073-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312075-1.jpg

After I was satisfied with the rough shape I then added bondo to fill in the voids and sanded smooth to the final shape

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312074-1.jpg

I then turned them over to the upholsterer and he did his magic.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312076-1.jpg

Here are some shots of the finished prduct

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312081-1.jpg




https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312080-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312079-1.jpg

I'll take some pics outside to give you a better view.

Sam

[sunkistcamaro]

WOW!!
Can I send you my car?? LOL

[SamHatco]

WOW!!
Can I send you my car?? LOL


As long as I can keep it! LOL!

Sam

[Young Gun]

Interior looks sick man... props

[srh3trinity]

Nice work!

[CruizinKev]

holy cow! nice work! :twothumbs

[Jon69RagTop]

:cool:

Really nice work there Sam. Congratulations>

[Motown 454]

Those look awesome. The whole interior looks like it was a factory option. very nice work.

[Nuke1]

I just read through your whole build and WOW! great job on the build and the hard work that has gone into your car, definelty inspires me to do some new things to mine!!!!!

[dropit69]

wow...the last pic looks like you went and took it of a new car interior very nicely done !!

[SamHatco]

Thanks guys for all the comps! Took the bird to my first car show. Wasn't a big show about 75 cars, but she did real well! Runner up best of show and top 5 winner. I lost to a beautiful 32 ford deuce coup that was just outstanding. No complaints here for the first time out.:)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312229-1.jpg

Here is a better shot of the interior

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312228-1.jpg

It was fun watching the people check the car out and then do a double take when they saw the interior. A lot of people could not tell where the interior came from. I overheard one guy tell his buddies that it came from a pontiac G8, he was the closest guess all day. At least he got Pontiac right. All in all it was a fun day. That is exactly what I was trying to achieve. I wanted it to look like it came that way from the factory.

Couple more shots
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312226-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312225-1.jpg

Sam

[EFI69Cam]

That interior looks incredible. I'd bet that most folks do not appreciate the work in it and would be more impressed with the typical street rod stuff. Nice work.

[CruizinKev]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312228-1.jpg

wow looks great!!! awesome work! :twothumbs

[bonecrrusher]

Considering i just bought a G8 GT yesterday, I know that a GTO interior!!

I really really dig the rear seats and the door panels - this project looks awesome!

[1bad87ss]

wow looks great!!! awesome work! :twothumbs

Yeah, what Kev said!

[cdoggy81]

Top notch Sam, top notch! Congrats on the trophy too :)

[NYTRANSAM]

Your car is awesome, & your posts have helped me on my project car several times already, Thanks for being so detailed in your posts. enjoy the car.

[SamHatco]

Thanks everyone! That's what I like about this site. I have learned so much from other guys also. It's only natural for me to share things I've found out, it's very gratifying helping a fellow car guy.

Sam

[Dalamar]

Very impressed with your interior work, and nice job on the door panels. makes me wonder if I can cut up my SN panels to work on my project? hmmmm
Asome car you have built, and it's different and very clean. I like that.

[Rybar]

Entire car looks awesome Sam, that interior is just phenomenal.

[tazzz25906112]

:jawdrop: I'm still picking my Jaw off the ground,,,, Beautiful car to say the least...... Congratulations on the show success and I might add the field of cars must have been outstanding for you not to run away with "Best of Show"

[SamHatco]

Very impressed with your interior work, and nice job on the door panels. makes me wonder if I can cut up my SN panels to work on my project? hmmmm
Asome car you have built, and it's different and very clean. I like that.


Entire car looks awesome Sam, that interior is just phenomenal.


:jawdrop: I'm still picking my Jaw off the ground,,,, Beautiful car to say the least...... Congratulations on the show success and I might add the field of cars must have been outstanding for you not to run away with "Best of Show"

Thanks guys. I still have a few items on the punch list to do and will keep you guys updated.

Sam

[steve g]

Awesome job Sam! Now you just gotta get some billet hydraulic hood hinges so you don't have to prop the hood up.

[454bug]

Here is a better shot of the interior

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312228-1.jpg

Sam

Sam, you are a ROCK STAR!!! :git:

AWESOME job on the entire car, ESPECIALLY the interior! :1st:

There is so much I can learn from your project and your craftsmanship. I'm going through the same process with modifying a factory dash into my project...

I wish I had your fiberglassing skills. I was wondering if the fiberglass would adhere to the factory plastic dash material in just the areas being modified or if it would be better to put a coat of fiberglass over the entire dash...

GREAT WORK!!! :worship:

[SamHatco]

Awesome job Sam! Now you just gotta get some billet hydraulic hood hinges so you don't have to prop the hood up.

Wow you must be telepathic! I just ordered a set from Frank @ Prodigy Customs. Got a set of Ring Brothers hood hinges on the way.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Sam, you are a ROCK STAR!!! :git:

AWESOME job on the entire car, ESPECIALLY the interior! :1st:

There is so much I can learn from your project and your craftsmanship. I'm going through the same process with modifying a factory dash into my project...

I wish I had your fiberglassing skills. I was wondering if the fiberglass would adhere to the factory plastic dash material in just the areas being modified or if it would be better to put a coat of fiberglass over the entire dash...

GREAT WORK!!! :worship:

Thanks for the kind words. To be honest this is the first time that I have worked with firberglass. It really isn't that difficult. You just have to make sure you get the right amount of hardener in the resin, don't mix up too large a batch and work quickly. They have the ratios of hardener to resin in the directions on the can. Got my supplies from Home Depot. Yes the fiberglass would adhere to just the areas your working on.

[SamHatco]

I've been driving the trans am lately and thought I would share a few updates

Purchased some new hinges from Ring Bros through Frank @ Prodigy Customs, I think its a big improvement

Before

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/27994312225-1.jpg

After

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/27994317020-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/27994317021-1.jpg

Next, I was getting some complaints from my wife about the loud exhaust drone while driving, and to be honest I was too. I have the Magnaflow 2.5" stainless steel exhaust system and the quality is spot on, but the mufflers were just a bit too loud for my taste. If you go the exhaust forum, I'm not the only one looking for a little quieter muffler and still want good flow characteristics. I stumbled upon Waldron's Antique Exhaust and they are reproducing the VOE (vacuum operated exhaust)Humbler muffler that was offered by Pontiac in 1970 on the GTO. It was only available for a couple of months then pulled from the list by GM management because they felt it promoted racing. It has a factory quiet rumble and you pull a switch and a valve redirects the internal flow to straight through to give it a more aggressive sound. This is a turbo style muffler with OEM quality stainless steel construction. I'm really pleased with the sound(s) both in quiet mode and open mode.

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

DFezjRjqZLA

[SamHatco]

It was such a pretty evening that I went for drive and found a good place to take some shots of the car

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/27994317030-1.jpg

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

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/27994317014-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/27994317015-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/27994317016-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/27994317017-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/27994317019-1.jpg

Sam

[T_Raven]

Man it looks good. The interior looks great. I might have to think about GTO interior for my 69, the stock dash is straight ug.

[bonecrrusher]

That vacuum powered exhaust is funny.. the 2006+ Z06 and the 2007+ NPP equipped C6's have them....

I swapped to the 3" Z06 exhaust on my Vette and love the sound! Its really nice to be able to turn it off on the freeway!

[Josh69]

Looks great Sam! I dig the valve covers, nice way to carry the them thru.

I've got a cousin with one of the few '70 GTO's that came with the factory VOE exhaust, Pontiac called it 'The Humbler'.

John Delorean wanted to have a 'Tiger' button that altered the exhaust, the intake (ram air), and a host of other things back in the 60's all in one shot, like the shock damping and trans shift points if I recall correctly. The only thing that made it to regular production was the Ram Air and the short lived VOE. He was about 40 years ahead of his time.

[SamHatco]

Yeah, when I was looking for alternatives to the magnaflows I stumbled across these and also found a video of the original GTO Humbler commercial that was aired during the Super Bowl in 1970 on youtube. I then remembered seeing that commercial. I thought is was cool then, and yes, Delorean was ahead of his time. Too bad GM pulled the option.

This is from Waldron's web site:

QUIET MODE: The muffler functions as a normal, triple-tube muffler with a double reverse flow pattern. Exhaust gases flow into the inlet, return forward past the front baffle and reverse direction to enter the outlet tube. Internal tube configuration and sound absorbing technologies keep the “Quiet” mode sound levels at approximately 70 dBA @ idle. In this mode, your car is quiet; inside and out.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/quietmode-1.jpg

OPEN MODE: Pull the “Loud” switch, and a valve inside the muffler opens to allow the exhaust gases to flow from the inlet tube directly to the outlet tube. This was Pontiac’s “Tiger” mode. Sound levels are typically 78 to 80 dBA @ idle in this mode. You hear a lower, deeper exhaust note inside the vehicle and the sound outside is approximately TWICE AS LOUD as in Quiet mode.
Best of all, the exhaust flow rate is 37% higher than Quiet mode!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/openmode-1.jpg

[steve g]

Awesome job Sam. I like my Magnaflow's but I haven't swapped out the 2:56 rear end yet. With my 2004r when I'm in od I can't hear the engine at 75mph because I'm only running at 1500rpm. LOL. I'm sure with a 3:73 they'll be a bit louder.

[SamHatco]

Awesome job Sam. I like my Magnaflow's but I haven't swapped out the 2:56 rear end yet. With my 2004r when I'm in od I can't hear the engine at 75mph because I'm only running at 1500rpm. LOL. I'm sure with a 3:73 they'll be a bit louder.

Don't get me wrong I really like the magnaflows. When I'm cruising about 70 mph the rpms are around 1900, and the drone is not too bad for my taste. The wife wanted the mufflers a little quieter and this fit the bill for both our tastes. I want her to enjoy the car as much as I do and when we start taking weekend trips in the bird we can both be happy. You know the old saying "If Momma aint happy...nobody is happy" lol.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Yesterday the wife and I drove the bird to my Brother's grandchild's christening about 75 miles from home. On the way home we got caught in some stop and go traffic in Houston. The outside temperature was about 95* and very humid. Temp on the engine was normal and did not overheat. A couple of times the car was idling really rough and almost died at stop lights. Once we got up to cruising speed about 70-75 the car ran great. When we got off the freeway and stopped at an intersection the car died again! Fortunately we got her running and limped home. It almost acts like vapor lock or do you think it is something else. Engine is an LS1 with 6 speed and I have a Lincoln Mark VIII cooling fan. Has anybody have this happen to them and if so, what did you do about it? Any help or thoughts will be greatly appreciated.

Sam

[Rybar]

Sam, do you dis-connect the battery when not using the car? Mine did the same when I did this, the computer does a re-learn which takes a little while to adjust. Now that I leave a C-tek trickle charger on the battery it's ran perfect ever since.

[SamHatco]

Sam, do you dis-connect the battery when not using the car? Mine did the same when I did this, the computer does a re-learn which takes a little while to adjust. Now that I leave a C-tek trickle charger on the battery it's ran perfect ever since.

I may have disconnected it at some point prior to driving it Sunday I don't remember. Do you think the way I have my intake set up might affect the idle when it is really hot?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/27994317020-1.jpg

We get some pretty miserable hot days down here in Texas. Sometimes 100+ days with 90%+ humidity. This is the first time I drove it when the weather was really hot.

Sam

[Rybar]

Weather up here doesn't get too hot very often.

Not sure on heat affecting your intake setup. I would think a little power loss or increased motor temps, but not causing it to die.

[SamHatco]

Weather up here doesn't get too hot very often.

Not sure on heat affecting your intake setup. I would think a little power loss or increased motor temps, but not causing it to die.

Ryan,

Thanks for your thoughts. Who did your intake setup? What size is your tubing? I think that is the route I would like to go, just to get cooler air into the engine.

Sam

[Rybar]

Blake at Speedtech custom made it for me. It's 3.5" tubing. We extended the MAF wires to mount it further away from the TB.

Edit: looks like your fan might make it a tight fit.

[SamHatco]

Blake at Speedtech custom made it for me. It's 3.5" tubing. We extended the MAF wires to mount it further away from the TB.

Edit: looks like your fan might make it a tight fit.

Thanks. Yeah its a little close but the maf is attached to the air filter so I think if I come off the throttle body directly with a 90 I should have room to go over to the driver side.

Sam

[dhutton]

Sam, I assume that is with the air conditioning running. Are you running the factory A/C or is it Vintage Air (looks like VA)? I noticed mine tends to load up a bit when idling in the heat with the A/C on. With my Vintage Air I'm not using the A/C signals from the ECM but I got a good improvement by forcing the fans on when the compressor is running (used a connection that came in my harness) and also by bumping up the idle a couple of hundred rpm. Biggest improvement was bumping up the idle. Of course if you are running the factory air all that should happen automatically for you.

I ran my air intake over to the driver's side fender. I used a cone style filter and it fits in there quite nicely between the fender and core support and draws fresh air from the other side of the core support.

[SamHatco]

Sam, I assume that is with the air conditioning running. Are you running the factory A/C or is it Vintage Air (looks like VA)? I noticed mine tends to load up a bit when idling in the heat with the A/C on. With my Vintage Air I'm not using the A/C signals from the ECM but I got a good improvement by forcing the fans on when the compressor is running (used a connection that came in my harness) and also by bumping up the idle a couple of hundred rpm. Biggest improvement was bumping up the idle. Of course if you are running the factory air all that should happen automatically for you.

I ran my air intake over to the driver's side fender. I used a cone style filter and it fits in there quite nicely between the fender and core support and draws fresh air from the other side of the core support.

Hey Don, yes I'm using the VA setup. I have my relays to the fan to turn on high when the a/c is on. I never had the engine load up this way before, but again it wasn't as hot when I was driving it. I'm just wondering if it is a combination of the air intake or the IAT and the fuel lines maybe too close to the exhaust somewhere. Do you think if I check it with a Tech II it may show some codes? The check engine light never did come on.

Sam

[Motown 454]

your probably getting the hot air from the radiator. Even if its not the problem it will help with the intake away from the heat sorce. Do you have a return fuel setup or is it a dead head system? Could be the fuel heating up like you said.

[dhutton]

Hi Sam. I don't think it sets a code when it loads up like that. At least I have never seen one. What is the rpm at idle? I found it wants to be around 800 rpm with the A/C running. Higher idle might also help cool the fuel in the rails a little since you will be burning a little more fuel. You can make a quick and dirty cool air intake with elbows etc from intakehoses.com. Not the prettiest but it will give you an idea if it helps.

[SamHatco]

your probably getting the hot air from the radiator. Even if its not the problem it will help with the intake away from the heat sorce. Do you have a return fuel setup or is it a dead head system? Could be the fuel heating up like you said.

Wayne, I'm thinking the same thing about the hot air. I'm using the corvette filter/regulator that returns the fuel back to the tank and only dead heading to the engine.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Hi Sam. I don't think it sets a code when it loads up like that. At least I have never seen one. What is the rpm at idle? I found it wants to be around 800 rpm with the A/C running. Higher idle might also help cool the fuel in the rails a little since you will be burning a little more fuel. You can make a quick and dirty cool air intake with elbows etc from intakehoses.com. Not the prettiest but it will give you an idea if it helps.

Don, RPM at idle is about 800-900 rpm. That is what the tuner set when he tuned the engine.

Sam

[ky69]

Your car is outstanding! I'm not much on Pontiacs but when they are done right they are golden! The interior is incredible!! Have you ever thought about getting the wheel spokes painted blue to match the stripes?

[SamHatco]

Your car is outstanding! I'm not much on Pontiacs but when they are done right they are golden! The interior is incredible!! Have you ever thought about getting the wheel spokes painted blue to match the stripes?

ky69, thanks. I had thought about it similar to the 30th anniversary trans am, but I wanted to give the look of the rally II's.

Sam

[CyberGolem]

What an incredible car. Thank you for sharing the build with us.

This may be a dumb question, but being a fan of fiberglass and carbon fiber, though not very knowledgeable about it, I'm curious as to what the weight difference in your car is now. I especially love what you did inside the hood and the interior is amazing.

Cheers,
-Chaz

[CyberGolem]

Well I've been tearing down the old bird and found a few issues. Who hasnt'? Heck its a 38 year old car. The previous owner really did a hack job on the floorboards. He cut out the rusted parts and then just overlaid flat sheet metal and screwed the new pieces in then put caulk in the seams. Covered it up with undercoating to hide the shoddy work. All of this will have to be redone if I want the car done correctly. Take a look.

Engine almost ready to pull.
http://www.fquick.com/images/vehicles/lg_thumbs/779346256.jpg

Some rust where the fender attaches to the cowl
http://www.fquick.com/images/vehicles/lg_thumbs/779346255.jpg

Poor floor pan patch job
http://www.fquick.com/images/vehicles/lg_thumbs/779347320.jpg

Wow, this must be a Firebird thing. My '68 has the same exact issue with the toe boards and floor boards under the dash. My 'bird also got punched in the nose once and whoever repaired it used shelving brackets from a Home Depot to jimmy it together. A real pro.

[SamHatco]

What an incredible car. Thank you for sharing the build with us.

This may be a dumb question, but being a fan of fiberglass and carbon fiber, though not very knowledgeable about it, I'm curious as to what the weight difference in your car is now. I especially love what you did inside the hood and the interior is amazing.

Cheers,
-Chaz

Thanks, Chaz. I haven't weighed the car but I know it's lighter, because of the aluminum engine and fiberglass hood. How much lighter probably not more than 2 hundred lbs.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Well after scratching my head for several weeks, I think I found the problem of the engine loading up at idle. I installed a new 4" cold air intake (will have pics shortly) thinking it was the IAT sensor getting confused from the hot air off the radiator. I then took the car down to Late Model Racecraft for a re-tune. We set the car up on the dyno and the tuner got the car hooked up to the computer and fired her up. He let it warm up to operating temp and was having problems with the air fuel ratio. It was sitting on 18.1, why too high. Couldn't adjust it out so he shut the car down and put a fuel pressure gauge on the car and fired her up again. 25lbs fuel pressure!! We need 55 lbs. Fuel pump went bad!!! He said the computer was compensating for the low pressure by dumping more fuel in the cylinders. The car would still run but gas mileage dropped to about 14 mpg. So we couldn't tune it. Drove the car home and now have the tank out waiting for a new Walbro F20000169 pump. Should have it in tomorrow and back to Racecraft on Wednesday for a re-tune. I'm getting the car ready for Cannonbird Run in Estes Park, Co next week. It's a national 1st gen firebird only rally.

Sam

[SamHatco]

I just completed my home built CAI. I have been looking at various setups people have done and this is what I came up with. Just about all the CAI setups have used some form of mandrel bent aluminum tubing that has been welded. I tried to look for something that I could build in my garage and still look professionally built so this is what I came up with.

Airaid has a U Build It kit that you can purchase in various diameters so I just purchased the 4" tube from Summit.

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

You can just purchase their tubing and not the whole kit so that is what I did. You just cut the various lengths and elbows that you need from the kit and configure them the way you want. I got my T-bolt clamps from McMaster Carr and the intake filter from Spectre.

Cutting the tubes was a piece of cake using a hack saw. Here is a tip. When you cut the tube put clamps on each side of the line you want to cut just a saw width apart and the cut will be straight and not wander while you cutting.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/27994326105-1.jpg

I then sanded the edges so I had a real tight fit and glued them together with CA glue since the tube is plastic. Sanded and smoothed the tube and took it down to my painter and they painted the same color as my manefold.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/27994326103-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/27994326104-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/27994326106-1.jpg

In order to use the 4" tubing I had to loose the Mark VIII fan so I went with the PRC dual 13" spall fans. Very nice product, the only complaint I have is that these fans are NOISY.

Sam

[68400BIRD]

Looks great as usual. Have you had a chance to see how it performs? I suppose your still waiting on your new fuel pump.

[SamHatco]

Looks great as usual. Have you had a chance to see how it performs? I suppose your still waiting on your new fuel pump.

New fuel pump is in and their is a big difference in how the engine performs. Cooler air makes a difference.

Sam

[sunkistcamaro]

Sam,
How sturdy is the tubing? I was looking into buying something like this and I think what you got would be perfect.

[Zanie]

Beautiful!
Dumb Question: Whats CA glue?

[Motown 454]

That looks great Sam. Its hard to believe its the same kit. Awesome job!

[Rybar]

Looks killer again Sam, very nice job on that intake tube. The design looks familiar

[bonecrrusher]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/336icecubechristuckerdamn-1.gif

DAMNNNNNNN!

Nice intake!

[SamHatco]

Sam,
How sturdy is the tubing? I was looking into buying something like this and I think what you got would be perfect.

It's pretty thick material. I'ts heavier than the OEM tube used on today's cars.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Beautiful!
Dumb Question: Whats CA glue?

If CA or cyanoacrylate glue (don't ask me to pronounce it, lol) doesn't sound familiar, you've probably encountered brand names such as Super Glue, Crazy Glue, Loctite or Insta-Bond. Cyanoacrylate glue is the general term for the quick-bonding super glues used to mend or combine anything from plastics to wood to metal. Unfortunately for some, this list also tends to include human skin.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Looks killer again Sam, very nice job on that intake tube. The design looks familiar

Thanks, Rybar, I'll give credit where credit is due....your intake design was my inspiration. Thanks again.


Sam

[SamHatco]

That looks great Sam. Its hard to believe its the sme kit. Awesome job!

Thanks, Wayne. That's what I liked about this kit. Very easy to work with and you don't have to have expensive band saws or be able to weld aluminum. A guy can build it at home, sand it smooth and paint it any color. You could paint it aluminum and nobody would know it's plastic.

Sam

[SamHatco]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/336icecubechristuckerdamn-1.gif

DAMNNNNNNN!

Nice intake!

LMAO, Thanks bonecrusher!

Sam

[sunkistcamaro]

It's pretty thick material. I'ts heavier than the OEM tube used on today's cars.

Sam
I was just concerned that about gluing it together if it would vibrate apart. Have you ridden around with it for a while?
Again you have blown me away with the work you do.
I wanted to have my car done by now but life came in the way, family and a broken leg put a halt on my project.

[SamHatco]

I was just concerned that about gluing it together if it would vibrate apart. Have you ridden around with it for a while?
Again you have blown me away with the work you do.
I wanted to have my car done by now but life came in the way, family and a broken leg put a halt on my project.

Bill, sorry about your troubles, and yes life does get in the way of our hobbies...hang in there and be patient. Patience is probably the biggest thing I learned in this build.

As for the tube coming apart, I have about 200 miles on it since I finished the intake. There is a support bracket where the filter attaches to the maf and tube that you can't see. When gluing abs plastic you have to make sure your joint is tight all the way around. Make sure your cuts are square and sand smooth the end of the tube to make sure it's flat. I worried about the joint coming apart also and the body shop also use "cat hair" (fiberglass impregnated bondo) along the joint when they prepared the tube for painting. So far no problems. We'll find out next week on the trip to Colorado. I plan on putting about 3,000 miles on her in the next 10 days. Huntsville, TX to Estes Park, CO to Lincoln, NE back to Huntsville.

Sam

[bonecrrusher]

LMAO, Thanks bonecrusher!

Sam

I do what I can....

That intake is looking good - gives me an idea for my Nova project whenever I get to it.... Have a Z06 kit to get painted and a blower to install first... lol.

[Rybar]

Thanks, Rybar, I'll give credit where credit is due....your intake design was my inspiration. Thanks again.


Sam

credit Steve Rupp. I stole the idea from his blue '69 LS1 build

[SamHatco]

Finally got the trunk finished out. Here are a couple of pics.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/27994326174-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/27994326169-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/27994326170-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/27994326172-1.jpg

I did a little more explaining in the interior forum https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?t=71251

Sam

[SamHatco]

A little better pic of the lid

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/27994326202-1.jpg

Sam

[sunkistcamaro]

WOW!!:jawdrop:

[zman1969]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/336icecubechristuckerdamn-1.gif

DAMNNNNNNN! SAMMMMMM! lookin SWEET! let me know if you come up to Dallas I'd like to see it in the flesh any plans for Power Tour?

[MattG]

From one 'vert owner to another, Well Done!

I love the interior and the over all car is outstanding.

I still can't believe how great the interior turned out.

Congrats,

Matt

[SamHatco]

WOW!!:jawdrop:



DAMNNNNNNN! SAMMMMMM! lookin SWEET! let me know if you come up to Dallas I'd like to see it in the flesh any plans for Power Tour?


From one 'vert owner to another, Well Done!

I love the interior and the over all car is outstanding.

I still can't believe how great the interior turned out.

Congrats,

Matt

Bill, Rich, Matt.... Thanks for the comps, have been having a ball with the car. Drove it up to Estes Park, Colorado, last month to the Cannonbird Run and won Best Firebird over all. There were even two real T/A's, one was un-restored one owner and one was a 98 point car that was outstanding. I guess the judges appreciated the work that went into the car. From Estes Park we drove to Lincoln, Nebraska to see my oldest son and then back home to Texas. Put about 2,700 miles on the car in 7 days. Those mountain roads in Colorado were a blast to drive and with the LS1 fuel injection the car never missed a beat. Also got 21.8 miles per gallon for the entire trip.

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

Sam

[Motown 454]

Sam sweet! Glad to see you geting to enjoy the car and congratulation's on the award. You can't complain about the gas milage either. Thats something I'm not used to a great looking car that gets up and goes with that much gas milage.
Enjoy

[sunkistcamaro]

Your car is completely killer!
Are you going to get that thing into SEMA?
Oh yah, can I send you my car to finish, Im not picky, half as nice as yours will be fine :smoke:

[cdoggy81]

Sam, that's great to hear!!! Congrats :)

[gcallahan]

just found this thread, man that is one nice car!!

[SamHatco]

Sam sweet! Glad to see you geting to enjoy the car and congratulation's on the award. You can't complain about the gas milage either. Thats something I'm not used to a great looking car that gets up and goes with that much gas milage.
Enjoy


Your car is completely killer!
Are you going to get that thing into SEMA?
Oh yah, can I send you my car to finish, Im not picky, half as nice as yours will be fine :smoke:


Sam, that's great to hear!!! Congrats :)


just found this thread, man that is one nice car!!

Thanks guys, we have been having a lot of fun driving the car this last year. We won Best in Class at the Houston AutoRama this past November and just won 1st place at the American Pontiac Association Show in Galveston a couple of weeks ago.

While driving down to Galveston we ran over some road trash and the front wheel threw up what ever it was and tore off my passenger rocker molding. Luckily it didn't damage any paint. I've got a few things I need to tidy up on the car so we are looking forward to this next driving season. Thanks again.

Sam

[BanditDave]

I'm bumping this thing up to the top! I love this entire build which I just read through again!!! We need updated pics and vids!

Dave

[SamHatco]

at the Goodguys Spring Lone Star Nationals in Forth Worth

Ran a 70.292 including a 1 second penalty for knocking over a cone. Not too bad for an old geezer. They say that the autocross in Forth Worth is the longest one they run all year. The pros were running in the low 60 second range.

Ya gotta drive em! :yeah:

fEUwDLtgXjw

Sam

[gbledsoe3]

Quick question concerning the rear seats. Aren't the '04-06 GTO rear seats (bottom/top) one unit with a center section built in? If so, I assume they were separated to make two separate seats, correct?

[SamHatco]

That is correct.

Sam

[atomicviper]

Hello Sam, this bird is over the top in my book, you did an awesome job: kewlpics:. On post #66 with a/c controls, just wondering on the plate that you mounted behind the gto controls with the vintage air controls, it looks like it's custom stamped. Did you make that plate or had it made? can you help me with that plate info and how you mounted the gto knobs to work with vintage air controls. I want to use the gto facia and a/c controls with my GenIV system. Also did you use the gto's plug to light up the knobs?
Thanks Sam

[gearheads78]

Saw it and met you on Power Tour. The car looked awsome in person.

[gordonr1973]

Love these ideas!!

[DreKoushRanada]

I just read this whole thread. I enjoyed the read. You actually showed how to perform numerous ideas i had planned for my 1970 cutlass. Hats off to you sir!