69 firebird T/A convertible

[SamHatco]

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

[formula98]

Nice project. Keep the posts coming. We have all run into things we would not have done our selves, but most people would not go for a complete restoration and is why you find the patch jobs. Looks like a fun project.

[restomodbird69]

what are your long term plans for the bird

[68firehawk]

Glad to see another Firebird in the mix. At lease the floor pan doesn't look to rusty. I've seen worse. Judging by the pictures if you get rid of those shody floor patches and weld something back in you'll have a solid floor. Is it an illusion or is part of your dash cut out?

[SamHatco]

Long term plans are new power train since the car is not an original #s matching. LSx / M6. Although the car is originally an a/c car I will go with vintage air so I can smooth the firewall. Global West uca, del a lume bushings, hotchkis springs, front and rear sway bars and suspension, hotchkis frame connectors, and convertible body brace, big brakes. 18" wheels, probably 8" up front and 9.5 in the back

I will definately keep the trans am look. I don't know if it will be white with blue strips or some other color. I really like 69T/APoser's color scheme. Bottom line I want the modern technology packaged in a 60's muscle car era that I grew up with. Make the car as fun, safe, and comfortible to drive as possible, so the missus and I can take road trips. I mean what can be more kewl than cruising in a 69 bird convertible, that can get 20+ miles to the gallon, 400+ hp and light up the tires at the same time? :headbang:

Sam

[SamHatco]

Jake,

The floor boards seem to look Ok, but its what is underneath that worries me. During the teardown I have found sooo many short cuts and bandaid repairs. As for the dash that's an illusion.

Sam

[69TAPoser]

Sweet! :headbang:

So it's a real 69 T/A shell? :worship:

Phil

[SamHatco]

Phil,

Its a convertible. The previous owner turned it into a T/A clone, by adding the hood, fender extractors, and rear spoiler. When I got the car it had a '74 pont 350 block, edelbrock intake and carb and possible a mild cam TH350 tranny. Car was initially green with black convertible top. It's just one of approx 11,500 convertibles made that year. NOT :crying: one of the "8" convertible T/A's built that year.

Man, I really love your project. That will be one beautiful car when it's finished.

Sam

[69TAPoser]

Thanks for the compliment, landscaping has unfortunately prevailed over my car build lately, but the landscaping is just about done!

I guess if it was 1 of the 8 T/A verts, pro-touring it would not be the best investment. :geek:

Very cool that you have a vert though. I haven't seen many pro-touring Bird verts. :cool:

Phil

[SamHatco]

Got the engine pulled today and when we dropped the gas tank I found some creative body work on the trunk pan. Sometimes I don't understand what the p. o. was thinking.

17563

I hope this wasn't done by a body shop!!

17562

17564

[Hammered]

That's not too bad - at least they didn't use license plates or trailer skirting. I can't wait to see it start going back together.

[curly]

Cool project! If I ever get my hands on either a '69 firebird or '64 Chevelle, I want to go with the same setup you are (LSx / T56).

[rohrt]

Its funny you say license plates. My rear quarters were made of 5 gallons of bondo and a license plate when I started tearing my apart.

[SamHatco]

Well after nearly a month at the sandblaster we had enough dry weather to finish the sandblasting. Found a few suprises but not too bad. Now its off to body shop.

Sam



https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779352824-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779352826-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779352829-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779352828-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779352830-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779352831-1.jpg

[steve g]

Glad to see another 69 convertible bird on here. I'm working on mine as well. It's going to wear it's current red paint for awhile but I would like to do a T/A hood and stripes in a silver blue & black combo.

[restomodbird69]

that is a pretty solid body to start with.

[SamHatco]

Took some pictures of the progress at the body shop.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779354930-1.jpg

Working of the trunk lid and doors.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779354931-1.jpg

[SamHatco]

Took some pictures of the progress at the body shop.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779354930-1.jpg

Working of the trunk lid and doors.https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779354931-1.jpg

Taking care of rust on the cowel.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779354937-1.jpg

New trunk pan installed.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779354943-1.jpg

Don't you just hate going behind someone else's work?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779354944-1.jpg

Windshield channel needs attention.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779354949-1.jpg

[SamHatco]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779354950-1.jpg

New suspension. Global west UCA, Hotchkis TVS

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779354960-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779354954-1.jpg

Notice the difference in the hight of the factory front spings and the new Hotchkis springs.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779354955-1.jpg


Sam

[mdprovee]

Nice progress, keep us updated.

[SamHatco]

Dropped the frame off this morning at the body shop. He is going to put it on the frame jig to make sure everything is level and square. He told me when he cut out the old floor pan patches the PO did, said that he found 1/2" sheet rock used as filler material between the patch and the floor braces. Must've been a carpenter:eek: . You never know what you'll find.:hmm:

[SamHatco]

Stopped by the body shop and took some pictures of the progress.

Sam

Old floor patches cut out. This is where they foud the sheet rock!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779355528-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779355529-1.jpg

He will be removing the seat supports and putting in full pans on each side.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779355531-1.jpg

Outer cowl removed to get at the rust inside. The small holes are being cleaned up and mig welded.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/779355533-1.jpg

[SamHatco]

I finally got my subframe from the powder coater yesterday and I began Installing my suspension! :bananna2:


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/08/779358955-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/08/779358954-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/08/779358957-1.jpg

[SamHatco]

I finally got my subframe from the powder coater yesterday and I began Installing my suspension! :bananna2: Global West UCA, Hotckis TVS System, Speed Tech big brake brackets. These parts are really high quality. Everthing bolted right up. Was very easy to install. :cool:


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/08/779358955-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/08/779358954-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/08/779358957-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/08/779358956-1.jpg


Just a couple of questions. I'm stumped. Which camaro frame brackets do I use? I'm going to put an LS1 and camaro made three or four different engine frame brackets:dunno:

Any help would be of greatfully appreciated.

Thanks,

Sam

[jonnyc]

looking good.i'm using the ats mounts on mine.they are a little more expensive than the others but are high quality and from what i've read they sit the motor in a good spot.

[Motown 454]

Looks awsome

[Roger Poirier]

Nice build pic's....

R.P.

[SamHatco]

Well I finally completed the subframe and got my big brakes installed :razz:

Speedtech big brake brackethttps://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/08/779358955-1.jpg

Brembo C4 heavy duty drilled and slotted rotors, 4th gen calipers with a little bling.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/09/779365133-1.jpg

Subframe done with brake lines installed. All I need is a body :smoke:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/09/779365135-1.jpg


On another note, I scored a really good deal on a 2002 Ls1/T56 with complete rearend for $800.00:jump:. Pulled the starter off and found a 3" hole in the block.:barf: So I found a good ls1 block and located a good engine shop, perhaps you guys heard of them, Nickens Bros Racing Engines in Conroe, Tx. They're just 30 minutes from me. Took both engines, complete and short block to them and David Nickens said no problem. He said he has built about 200 ls1 engines. He even asked how much horspower I wanted, 1000? I said 450 will do he said no problem. Woo woo!. They just had a write up in Car Craft this month, built a 650 hp LS2 in a Caddy CTSV. Can't wait to get the engine mocked. I'm in good hands

Sam

[ponjohn]

Wow nice progress, did you already test fit/ mock up the LS1 before the s/f was powder coated?

Nickens used to and probably still does make Comp Eliminator engines for NHRA, more than qualified.

John

[SamHatco]

Wow nice progress, did you already test fit/ mock up the LS1 before the s/f was powder coated?

Nickens used to and probably still does make Comp Eliminator engines for NHRA, more than qualified.

John

No, I plan on doing that when I get the engine back from Nickens. With the body off everything is easy to get to.

Yes he does and he has even designed a new racing hemi block that MOPAR is going to start casting and sell. The guy is really nice, he gave me a tour of his shop, man is it ever state of the art. He also loves the LS series of engines. He was starting a 427 LSx build for another customer, he said it will make some serious hp.

Sam

[restomodbird69]

sweet,you got nickens to build your engine.my brother knows them well he has a salvage yard in conroe and runs the dirt track in willis.maybe we will run into eachother sometime.

[1offwizard]

Very Nice!!!

[SamHatco]

Finally have some progress to report on my 69 firebird vert. Got the engine back from Nickens Bros Racing engines last Monday. :bananna2:

Balanced, blue printed, 241 heads ported and polished, comp cam 228/230 lsa 114+4, LS6 intake. According to the engine builder should be making around 470HP with a decent tune.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/779376957-1.jpg

Found an 05 GTO t-56 from a guy in Pensacola, Fl and met him in Lafayette for the purchase. Tranny is in perfect shape.

I used carshop engine adapters, energy suspension engine mounts, and ATS transmission mount. Everything fit perfectly.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/779376958-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/779376960-1.jpg

Hooker headers cleared the stock streering box.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/779376959-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/779376966-1.jpg

I like the way the headers are tucked up out of the way. The ATS tranny mount is an exellent product and I like the clearance it gives for the exhaust.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/779376968-1.jpg

S&P modified the oil pan and with the combination of the Carshop engine mounts there will be no clearance issues with the steering linkages

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/779376967-1.jpg

Hopfully next week I'll have the body back from the bodyshop and we can get this baby back as a roller.


Sam

[redfire69]

Awesome project! I can't believe I haven't seen this thread.... my build plans are very similar for my 69 camaro at https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/vbpicgallery.php?do=view&g=944


Ron

[SamHatco]

Finally, the body work is completed, well almost.

Picked up the body today from Anderson Bros. Paint & Body.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/779379128-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/779379129-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/779379131-1.jpg

Next step is making this baby a roller.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/779379132-1.jpg

If I don't start putting this thing together I'll run out of room for all the parts boxes.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/779379133-1.jpg


The game plan is to reconnect the body and subframe again and to mock up and fit all the pieces. Do what fabrication that needs to be done and then break it all down again and send it back to the body shop for final paint and then put it all back together so there won't be any suprises. Well... thats the plan anyway. Stay tuned

Sam

[Young Gun]

first of all...wow am i jealous!!!! looks awsome!!!! congrats on all of it...it reall is looking good...what color are you looking to paint it? second of all where did you get that dolly/thing that you have bolted into the front end to make it roll around? how much was it? and if you made it... wanna build another for me? ill pay parts and labor!

[SamHatco]

LOL! Just thew that together from some scrap metal laying around. Wasn't very hard took about 20 minutes. I went to our local Tractor Supply and picked up some casters, I think they were 6 or 7 inch. Used the old body bolts to mount them to the front body mounts. It really makes it easy for one or two people to roll the body around.

Sam

[Young Gun]

if you get a chance could you take some close up pics of it and pm me, I could really use something like that!!!

[restomodbird69]

looking good man.caint wait to see some color on it.

[Smock67]

That looks amazing the progress you have made so far is awesome. So what color combo are you looking at getting? Also you are giving me motivation,Now i have to go down and work on my bird tomorrow.

[SamHatco]

The color will be a bright pearl white with candy blue pearl stripes. Interior will be from an 04 GTO. I'll try to document as much of the interior installation and fabrication as I can. I don't think anybody has done this mod before except for a guy in ILL who put an 04 GTO interior with an LS7 in a 68 firebird.

Sam

[gearheads78]

Moving along great. Keep up the progress....

[PT70SS]

Sam, the car looks great. Didn't take you long to get the trans bolted up and the motor in. Just wanted to tell you it was nice meeting you and your wife,and i'm glad that your pleased with the t56. Keep up the good work, i'll be keeping up with your progress.

Darrell

[SamHatco]

Thanks for the replies. I'm really excited about getting this bird to fly!

Sam

[SamHatco]

I finally had some time to work on the bird last week and got the subframe and the body back together. Did not have any problems with clearances at all. Here is a few shots of the progress.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/12/779382767-1.jpg

[SamHatco]

I didn't have any clearance issues.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/12/779382768-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/12/779382769-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/12/779382760-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/12/779382771-1.jpg

Next Step is beefing up the rear end. Got lucky its an 8.5 10 bolt. Plan on installing a posi with 3.42 gear set and upgraded axles to handle the new power from the LS1.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/12/779382770-1.jpg

Sam

[dropit69]

looking good Sam..that ls1 fits nicely in there..you keep making me want to keep my bird and do something with it..

[Motown 454]

Nice build Sam you did an awsome job on that sub frame. I can't wait to see more progress. keep the pictures coming. Wayne

[Rybar]

Looking real good! Nice progress!

[SamHatco]

You guys don't know how much I appreciate your positive replies and suggestions. It makes working on this project so much the better when you have friends who are as enthusiastic about cars as I am. :twothumbs

Sam

[restomodbird69]

looking good sam,what is your goal to get it completed?

[SamHatco]

I hope to have it completed by this spring. It's deer season right now in Texas, and well, we Texans like fast girls, fast cars, huntin and fishin.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Well I have. It seemed like for the last month or so that everytime I get started on a project, I'm missing a key part or tool or motivation:banghead: . I finally got all the rear brake parts and rear diff parts gathered to complete the rear end. Friday, I sent the rear end to the powder coater along with some other parts and I hope to get them back next week.

Meanwhile when I was doing my rear break mock up I figured out how to have both e-break cables to pull from the same direction. I'm installing LS1 rear breaks and in order for them to clear the shocks you have to use two left side brackets, when you do this, the left side caliper bracket will pull from the rear and when you switch it to the right side it will pull from the front.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/02/7793105674-1.jpg

By grinding down the ear on the left hand caliper bracket and reversing the lever and and installing the ebrake adjuster clip from the right hand caliper bracket both left hand caliper brackets will pull from the rear.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/02/7793105675-1.jpg

left and right side clips

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/02/7793105676-1.jpg

Now both sides will pull from the rear.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/02/7793105696-1.jpg

Intsalled the wilwood 7/8th bore master cylinder and the clutch master cylinder for the T-56

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/02/7793105721-1.jpg

Sam

[SamHatco]

Now for the fun part. I plan on installing an 04 GTO interior in my 69 Bird vert. Well this project isn't for the faint of heart.

The first thing I did was completely cut out a perfectly good 69 firebird dash. The GTO shifter actually sits about 6 inches farther back than the LS1 shifters. I fabbed up an access cover to close off the original shifter hole and to provide access to the top of the tranny if need be.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/02/7793105659-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/02/7793105656-1.jpg

As you can see above I already installed the the GTO console. The dash will fit to the console. Since the GTO shifter is the anchor point for the console, the dash will have to adjust to this location.

Installed the clutch and brake pedals and you can see the GTO steering column mocked up. Just ignor the weld blow outs on the firewall. Those will be fixed. Also mocked up the Lokar gas pedal. Notice the GTO gas pedal?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/02/7793105657-1.jpg

The switches are from the 04 GTO. I have a complete GTO body harness and BCM.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/02/7793105658-1.jpg
After much deliberation, measuring and finger crossing I installed the GTO dash sub assembly. It looks like it belongs there IMHO.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/02/7793105660-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/02/7793105661-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/02/7793105663-1.jpg

Stay tune for further updates.

Sam

[CarlC]

Sam,

It is coming along very nicely.

What engine wiring harness are you using? You mention that you have a 2002 LS1, and your harness looks much longer than most.

[SamHatco]

Thanks, I have an 04 GTO engine harness to complement the body harness.

Sam

[CarlC]

Sam,

Thanks. It looks like there is a junction just aft of the drivers side head. How long is it from that point to the ECM connections? I would like to try and make the ECM fit inside of the front fender by routing the wiring along the firewall and inside of the fender. Your harness looks like it might make it.

[Young Gun]

looks awsome! keep up the great work!

[SamHatco]

Carl,

I believe you can just tuck it up against the firewall behind the fender, its close.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/12/779382767-1.jpg

On the 04 GTO the PCM sits on the driver side fenderwell, so I believe you can hide it behind the fender. I plan on putting the pcm inside and use a mil spec bulkhead connector for the wires passing through the firewall.

Sam

[CarlC]

For the ECM to fit in the front of the fenderwell with a little bit to spare for maintenance the harness needs to be 5' from the aft corner of the head to the center of the two (blue and red) ECM connections.

[rohrt]

That is so cool. Very close to what I plan to do with my 68 Bird.

[CamaroB]

Nice! keep up the good work.

[78_elky]

that interior looks great, and your progress is amazing, great job you're doing!
-Josh

[GM_muscle]

lookin great keep up the good work

[SamHatco]

Well it seems like nothing is getting done on the ol bird and then all of a sudden things start comming together. Here is the progress so far:

Got my new repop stainless steel tank from Classic Industries and had them drop ship it to Rick's Hot Rod shop for the fuel injection conversion. Man, this thing is a work of art. :woot: It's a shame it won't be seen. Maybe I should cut the bottom of the trunk out so you could see it.:hmm: They installed a sending unit that will work with the 04 GTO gauge cluster.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/7793139318-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/7793139320-1.jpg

[SamHatco]

I have been working with Ryan Zwicker @ Vintage Air and together we came up with a solution to getting the 04 GTO AC controlls to work with their Gen IV ac system. Here's what I came up with, I couldn't have done it with out his help. Those guys a Vintage Air are top shelf in my book.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/7793139719-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/7793139720-1.jpg

Here it is lighted:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/7793139718-1.jpg

When I purchased the GEN IV system they calibrated the controlls to their system. There is more than enough room for the evaporator behind that dash.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/7793139317-1.jpg

Sam

[ProdigyCustoms]

Congratulations on getting that control done. Fricken awesome!

[SamHatco]

Finally got the 04 GTO steering wheel adapted to the 69 rag joint. I had to get some 3/4" double "D" bar stock and have it milled down by a machine shop to connect the GTO column to the 69 steering. Worked out pretty good.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/7793139323-1.jpg

Completed the mock up of the Wilwood Brake MC, the proportioning valve and the ATS master clutch assembly. Got the idea of the prop valve and clutch resovoir from Bad Penny (I hope you don't mind Steve).

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/7793139321-1.jpg

Here's a shot of the inside. I think this is going to look pretty cool when finished.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/7793139316-1.jpg

And finally here are some shots of the clutch brake pedal assembly. I transferred all the clutch and brake pedals and switches from the GTO to the Firebird brackets.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/7793139313-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/7793139312-1.jpg

On another note, I tried mocking up the 04 GTO seats in the firebird and I don't think they will work. I seems they are too wide and the seat is too high. Has anyone been successful in getting these to work in a 1st gen? I know there is a thread on putting them in a 2nd gen. If not I'll have some for sale.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Thanks Frank,

Quick question. How are you mounting the evap to a smooth firewall? I was thinking of welding the mounting bolts to the inside instead of drilling through the firewall. I we need to get together on the bulk head lines.

Sam

[SamHatco]

As you guys know the new GTOs only have two windows that work. So in order to get the 69 windows to work I had to make some custom switches. I saw the work the Tim Baillie did @ HzeMall Customs on another GTO console and was so impressed that I contacted him to help me with mine. Here's what he came up with. We used spall power window and door lock switches. Check out the switch for the power top.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/7793139709-1.jpg

Looks like it made that way all along.

Sam

[Rybar]

Nice job, that interior is going to look awesome!

[ssmith100]

Spooky,

Car looks fantastic. I'd love to come by some time and take a look. Window switches turned out very well. I've installed a few of the Spal power window kits in many vehicles, so if you need a hand I'd love to help. Tim did a really good job in mounting the switches. He post a lot of installs he does at www.carsound.com. If you go over there the install I did in my "V" is there: http://www.audiogroupforum.com/csforum/showthread.php?t=66061&highlight=morel&page=3

Shane

[zman1969]

Sam been watching your progress much faster than mine, the inter looks great so far! Hollar if you need any help with that 10 bolt assembly as i have done dozens of them - same rear in my car with the ls1 discs too! and its powdercoated also - were probably distant brothers :smoke: we will need to get together some day with them. KUTGW-Keep Up The Good Work!

[Memphis]

Man that is cool, definitely subbed for this thread :)

[Over Actor]

I've been looking to no avail. But your running the vintage air setup with a smoothed firewall. when you take out the giant black box with the evap/ect in it smooth out the fire wall are you running just aluminum line through the firewall somewhere? Just wondering as IM about to get started and Im planning on smoothing the firewall and filling the whole left from the evap box. But want the option of adding a/c later.

Thanks

[SamHatco]

I've been looking to no avail. But your running the vintage air setup with a smoothed firewall. when you take out the giant black box with the evap/ect in it smooth out the fire wall are you running just aluminum line through the firewall somewhere? Just wondering as IM about to get started and Im planning on smoothing the firewall and filling the whole left from the evap box. But want the option of adding a/c later.

Thanks

This is what Frank did @ Prodigy Custums with Lisa's project "Empty Nest"

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

Notice the four grommets on the left side of the firewall. That is the location of the blower fan motor. The refrigerant and heater lines will pass through the firewall at that location. When the fender is installed they will be totally hidden. This is what I'm planning to do. I am also going to weld the bolts to the inside of firewall to support the condenser so there won't be any bolts showing through the firewall. Hope this helps.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Finally got to turn some wrenches and made some progress on the ol bird.

I fabbed up some bracketts for the vintage air evaporator. Since I want a smooth firewall I got some weld screws and welded them to the inside of the firewall, also spot welded a front braket to the inner cowl and now the evap is tucked up really nice and out of the way.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/06/7793154774-1.jpg

I dissambled the subframe and suspended the body so I can spray undercoating. My plan is then to reassemble the underbody suspention after the undercoating is dry.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/06/7793154771-1.jpg

Subframe and rear end. Kinda like the rear diff cover is a TA, get it?
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/06/7793154770-1.jpg

Hope to have the undercoating done this week and start reassembly this weekend, then it off the painter to get some color on this baby.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Finally had some time to complete the install of the rear suspension and brakes. What do you guys think?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/07/7793169863-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/07/7793169873-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/07/7793169866-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/07/7793169872-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/07/7793169874-1.jpg

My next step is to get the sub frame back on and install the subframe connectors and then she will be a roller again.

Sam

[gearheads78]

looking great...keep it up

[SamHatco]

Thanks, I am really enjoying this build.

Sam

[Motown 454]

Very nice work How much room did you have from the tunnel to the transmission? Any fitment issues?
Wayne

[SamHatco]

Do you mean for the e-brake setup? The cables are about 1" from the top of the tunnel. I don't believe there should be any rubbing issues with the drive shaft.

Sam

[1968CamaroSS_Sam]

This is one nice looking bird. Can't wait to see it done. Great job.

[SamHatco]

Its been a long hot summer down here in east Texas, but I finally completed just about all of the fabrication and now the car sits at the body shop to prep for paint. It's big milestone. Now the light at the end of tunnel is just starting to shine.

Dropped the car off at the body shop and they imediatly put on the frame rack to install the front fenders and to final alignment on the body panels.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/08/7793184823-1.jpg

Making sure the front gaps are just right. Manual worked on this fender for about 4hours fussing with it.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/08/7793184829-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/08/7793184824-1.jpg

First go round with blocking
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/08/7793184831-1.jpg

That all for now.

Sam

[T_Raven]

man how the heck did i miss this thread for this long. awesome build. i've been waiting to see someone put gto interior in something

[7t3 TA]

Sam - how wide is the GTO dash? I'm thinking about using one in my 2nd gen TA. How did you transition from the dash to the cowl on top? It looks like the right and left sides of the dash turn downward? What are your plans for this area? Do you have any pics of this fix?

Sorry for all the questions but your experience could save me some headaches.

Thanks, Gary

[cdoggy81]

^^^^^^^^
Yah, me too!

Also, what did it cost to have Rick's Hot Rod shop do the fuel injection conversion to your tank?I'm also going to need a sending unit that will work with the 04 GTO gauge cluster......

[SamHatco]

Sam - how wide is the GTO dash? I'm thinking about using one in my 2nd gen TA. How did you transition from the dash to the cowl on top? It looks like the right and left sides of the dash turn downward? What are your plans for this area? Do you have any pics of this fix?

Sorry for all the questions but your experience could save me some headaches.

Thanks, Gary

Gary, the GTO dash is 54 1/2 inches wide and the 69 bird is 55 inches between the cowl, so this will leave room to fudge one side or the other. The GTO dash is actually 2 pieces, the sub structure which plastic and the actual dash overlay which is covered in leather. I haven't mocked the overlay as of yet, I will do that when the car is painted and am ready to install the interior. One thing to note is that the dash is really deep. I had to trim quite a bit to get the substructure to fit the contour of the windshield, which in a way is good. You must remember not to trim too far as you will get into the center pod of the console.

Sam

[SamHatco]

^^^^^^^^
Yah, me too!

Also, what did it cost to have Rick's Hot Rod shop do the fuel injection conversion to your tank?I'm also going to need a sending unit that will work with the 04 GTO gauge cluster......

They were pretty reasonable I don't exactly remember but it was around $400.00 + tax and shipping. It was worth it as the quality of work in 2nd to none.

Sam

[67SSDan]

Dude... this thing is going to rock. Can't wait to see it in paint. Keep it up!

Dan

[Motown 454]

Sam its looking good When do you think it will be painted? I like the E brake set up.

[cdoggy81]

Thanks for the info about the tank as well as the dash.
BTW, why didn't you use the AC system out of the GTO?

[7t3 TA]

Thanks for the info - I'm looking forward to seeing the progress.
Gary

[SamHatco]

Sam its looking good When do you think it will be painted? I like the E brake set up.

Thanks! I hope we can start shooting some color in a couple of weeks.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Thanks for the info about the tank as well as the dash.
BTW, why didn't you use the AC system out of the GTO?

Glad I could help. When I bought the interior the a/c system wasn't available, so I decided that the VA IV system was the most cost efective way to go.

Sam

[cdoggy81]

Got ya. I have everything from the GTO so I hope I can make it all work...
Great thread & keep up the good work!!!

[cdoggy81]

How are things going with it?

[SamHatco]

It's been a hectic last two weeks. I was on a bird hunting trip in Mexico the week of 9/11. While we were there we were watching the progress of "Ike". When we left for Mexico it was supposed to hit between Brownsville and Corpus Christi, needless to say the I went right through Galveston, Houston and my hometown Huntsville. The damage was devastating! I was still in Mexico when Ike made landfall and was unable to contact anybody at home. When we got back across the border in McAllen I was able to contact the wife and kids and found everybody was safe and we sustained no damage. We were without electricity until las Friday. That is why I haven't had any posts recently.

TA Spoiler rd brake light (this is so cool)

I have been thinking of this little project for a long time after seeing several Camaros with a 3rd brake light in their spoilers. While driving one day it dawned on me why not put a 3rd brake light in the TA spoiler. If you look around just about all the modern cars with spoilers have a 3rd brake light in them. I found my brake light at www.spoilerlights.com (http://www.spoilerlights.com) . I purchased a 15.5" brake light for about $50.00.

I set my light about 1" back from the rear edge of the spoiler and centered it between the two pedestals.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/09/7793193118-1.jpg

After using a fine sharpie outlining the light I used my trusty dremel tool to cut out the hole for the light. I saved the cut out piece.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/09/7793193119-1.jpg

Here is what the inside of a TA spoiler looks like.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/09/7793193120-1.jpg

The piece that was cut out was used to reinforce the inside of the spoiler. I made 2 5" pieces and 4 1.5" pieces. I put the 5" pieces on edge and epoxied them inside the spoiler. The 1.5" pieces were epoxied in to give the brake light something to screw into.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/09/7793193121-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/09/7793193122-1.jpg

I then drilled a whole for the brake light wires to pass into the trunk
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/09/7793193123-1.jpg

After attaching the light into the cutout I blended the light into the spoiler. I still have a little more work to do, but as you can see it looks like it was made for it all along.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/09/7793193124-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/09/7793193125-1.jpg

It really turn out better than I expected.


Sam

[SamHatco]

Stopped by the shop Saturday and some progress is still being made.

They got the TA hood mounted and are starting to set the gaps and align the fenders.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/09/7793193315-1.jpg

Sorry for the poor lighting, their shop was in complete disarray. Notice the mattresses on the left. They had no power at home and still don't so they are sleeping in the shop. I hate hurricanes. Will keep you guys posted on future progress and get better shots of the spoiler 3rd brake light.

Sam

[68Formula]

Very slick job on the rear spoiler. On my '68, my solution was to get a 3rd gen spoiler with integrated light. I test fit it on a junk trunklid, and it works very well. A little tweating is all I need. Sorry no pics.

[7t3 TA]

Sam, sorry to hear about all of your troubles. I'm glad your family was ok. I hope your house was okay or at least the non-replaceable stuff.

My parents live just north of New Orleans, so I know how hurricanes can affect you. I spent a week with them after katrina clearing trees. They had about 11 100' pine trees down (on 10 acres), luckily none hit the house. Since then they have lost 20 more due to bugs and infections. They were without power for a couple of weeks so I had to get them set up with a generator.

Your 3rd light looks great! I'm going to do that with mine only I'm gonna use a clear lens type, so it blends in with the white paint a little more.

Keep us posted on how things are,

Gary

[SamHatco]

Thanks guys, the bird is starting to look as I had envisioned in my mind. I hardly can wait until it gets painted and I can start reassembly. In the mean time I'm restoring the convertible top frame. Man, it's hard to find the right kind of bolts and bushings for these 1st gen convertible frames. Found a place in California but they wanted like $180.00 for the bolts and bushings :eek: .

Sam

[SamHatco]

Very slick job on the rear spoiler. On my '68, my solution was to get a 3rd gen spoiler with integrated light. I test fit it on a junk trunklid, and it works very well. A little tweating is all I need. Sorry no pics.

I wanted mine to look stock, and have people say "Oh.... that looks great" and not realize that it is custom and didn't come that way originally.

Sam

[Motown 454]

Sam glad to hear everyone is ok after Ike. Nice job on the 3rd brake lioghtit looks sweet . I like those spoilers on convertables Birds annd Camaro's . It makes the roof look chopped . Keep us updated.

[zman1969]

Sam Glad you and yours (your car) :pat: I mean family are safe and your still getting more done on your car I am . course that wouldnt take much. the third brake light was a great idea as the birds taillights arent that visible - i was planning on trying LED rear lights. I want it to be seen when I'm stopping! keep at it, your doing great!
Oh BTW we had hardly any rain(>1") or wind from Ike go figure

[SamHatco]

LOL! Thanks zman, still fussing with the hood and a few other fitment issues. I don't no how they made so many of these cars, spitting them out everty 15 minutes during production but the panel alignments and gap were horrible in those days. Sometimes the good ole days weren't that good. We're pluggin along though....


Sam

[ssmith100]

Sam,

Car is looking very good. Nice work on the spoiler. I really need to come by and take a look once it comes back from paint. Any particular day of the week better for you ??

Shane

[SamHatco]

Well its been a month since my last update and I thought I would show some of the progress. Finished the gaps on the fenders and hood and completed the third brake light in the spoiler.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/7793207539-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/7793207537-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/09/7793193124-1.jpg

Third Brake light is completed primed and ready for paint.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/7793207536-1.jpg

Prepping the underside of the hood
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/7793207540-1.jpg

Getting ready to cut the opening for the ram air scoops.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/7793207545-1.jpg

Scoops are now opened so we can make some tube extensions
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/7793207555-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/7793207550-1.jpg

We made some scoop extensions from a mold of florest's blocks. Wrapped them in wax paper for a releasing agent and the wrapped them in fiberglass

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/7793207551-1.jpg

Prefitting the scoops to the hood.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/7793207553-1.jpg

Now were in the process of sanding smooth the underside and will then glass the scoops into the underside of the hood.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/7793207553-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/7793207554-1.jpg


We haven't decided how we will route the ram air induction as of this time. We probably wait until I get the engine installed and the tubing routed. More than likely we will use a twin tube design and route the ducts to the sides of the radiator for cooler air.

Sam

[cdoggy81]

How have you been doing on the bird?

I need to contact you about that GTO dash install :)

Keep up the excellent work!

[68BirdinOz]

What was the outcome on the GTO seats? I am thinking of buying front and rears for my 68Bird from the Australian version of the GTO. Seller is to far away to do a trial fit before purchase.

[Rag-Rat]

First off Sam, your car is awesome. I just read this whole thread and I can't wait to see the finished Bird. I wanted to ask you about your fuel tank. It is one of my last undecided routes to go on my EFI 67 Camaro. How does the bottom of your tank look? Can you see where the sump is welded in? Is that stainless tank Canadian made? I have looked at a full stainless Rick's tank and the new aftermarket EFI stock appearing tank. Yours is a third option for me. I like the stock appearence, but performance trumps everything in my book (even price). Would appreciate any info and keep your pics coming.

[SamHatco]

Thanks Ratag, I purchased the tank from Classic Industries and had them drop ship it to Ricks Hot rod shop. They then installed the Ls1 fuel pump. It's the stainless steel version of the oem tank.

Sam

[cdoggy81]

Sam,
It was a real pleasure speaking with you the other day. Thanks again & I will keep you updated & you me :) Continue the great work! BTW, I saw the console at Hzemall.... VERY NICE!!! He will get mine for sure!

[SamHatco]

Well it's been almost 3 months at the body shop and I'm finally seeing color:bananna2:. Here are a few shots I took recently:

Here is a few teasers

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/7793228754-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/7793228758-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/7793222881-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/7793226901-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/7793228760-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/7793228766-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/7793228767-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/7793228777-1.jpg

I'm am really excited. It feels like the corner has turned and I can't wait to start assembly. Hopefully I'll have it running by May.

Sam

[dropit69]

awesome Sam ..looking killer ..must be stoked to start reassembly !!

[T_Raven]

Holy crap it looks good

[SamHatco]

Thanks guys,

They were color sanding the doors yesterday, hope to have it back in my garage by the end of next week. I didn't realize the amount of hours needed to color sand the car it took. My painter is pretty fussy and if it didn't polish down to suit him, he would go back and shoot another coat of clear and start color sanding again. I think there are a four coats of base, one coat of intercoat, the color for the stripes and four coats of clear. He's doing an outstanding job.

Sam

[ProdigyCustoms]

Looks killer, Congratulations. that is a huge hurdle cleared.

[BMF Machine]

SweeT IndeeD! LovE It!

[SamHatco]

Thanks guys, Frank, I'll be calling you for an exhaust system in the near future .

Sam

[MuscleRodz]

Looks awesome Sam.

[1971CHEVELLE]

:1st:this car is going to be awesome. Good work

[Rybar]

Does look awesome, Nice work! Love 69 T/A paint schemes.

[icebird84]

I Love it

[zman1969]

Sam im getting wood now https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/7793222881-1.jpg


thats really getting me in the mood wish mine were getting there! hopefully I'll be setting my eng and trans in car and trear end and springs then its assembley time! keep us updated with more car porn :smoke:

[SamHatco]

Thanks guys, really exciting to see the corner turned. I hope to have the car back by the end of next week. :yeah:

Sam

[cdoggy81]

Fantastic Sam!!!
BTW, what color blue is that. It is sharp :)

[SamHatco]

Fantastic Sam!!!
BTW, what color blue is that. It is sharp :)

Thanks cdoggy81, the blue stripes are HOK oriental pearl blue. Frank, at Prodegy Customs gave me the color information, he's a class act. Lisa's car has been my inspiration. The white is toyota super bright white. The combination really pops in the sunlight!

Sam

[cdoggy81]

Thanks Sam :) Do you know if that is the same color blue they used on the 55 Chevy they did?

[ProdigyCustoms]

No, the 55 was done with HOK True Blue which is not a candy. The Oriental Blue is a 3 stage candy.

[mdprovee]

Great job, I love the colors, whatever they may be. Also a great job with the third light. What type of light did you use? Wires run thru the pedestals?

[SamHatco]

Great job, I love the colors, whatever they may be. Also a great job with the third light. What type of light did you use? Wires run thru the pedestals?

Thanks, the third light I got from spoilerlights.com. I believe its for a toyota celica. The spoiler is hollow and yes we ran the wires down through the pedestal. I posted some pictures earlier in this thread.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Stopped by the shop today to check on the firebird and the body shop was just cleaning up the car. Here are a few pictures I took.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793241322-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793241320-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793241317-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793241321-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793241323-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793241324-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793241325-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793241326-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793241327-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793241329-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793241330-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793241331-1.jpg

They have a few more items to cut and buff and it's been raining for the last 2 days so I'll be able to pick it up on Monday or Tuesday depending on the weather, and then the really fun part begins. I'll be able to start turning some wrenches next week.

Sam

[Motown 454]

OH this is going to be a long weekend for you ! The car looks great. I love that paint scheme.

[GM_muscle]

what are the 2 colors? what brand and shade?

[1971CHEVELLE]

what are the 2 colors? what brand and shade?
love the colors awesome car :1st:

[454bug]

Great work Sam!!!

Paint looks great and I'm VERY impressed with how you made the GTO dash and console work so well!!

Keep up the excellent work!

It looks like you'll be enjoying the last couple of years of work very soon... :drive:

[cdoggy81]

Love it Sam!!!

[SamHatco]

what are the 2 colors? what brand and shade?

The paint is ppg Toyota super bright white, and the stripes are HOK Oriental Pearl Blue. I love the way the stripes flip flop in color depending on the angle you look at them and the light. I'm definitely no photographer and the pics don't even come close to showing how good it looks. Thank's for the compliments.

Sam

[f1shman]

Lovin the paint work. Nice job Sam! :kewlpics:

[icebird84]

looking Excellent keep it up

[SamHatco]

I'm worst than a kid on Christmas morning. I was going to pick the car up after work but the sun was shinning and I couldn't wait, anyway here are some shots out in the sun and loaded up to take home.

This thing really pops in the sunlight.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242094-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242095-1.jpg

Money shot of the wheels.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242097-1.jpg

This is the view those mustang guys are going to be seeing most

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242100-1.jpg

Those 18x10s 275/40s really fill up the rear wells. I rolled the outer lips just for a little insurance.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242101-1.jpg

Engine bay just waiting for the LS1/T56

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242103-1.jpg

Finally home!!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242105-1.jpg

This car has exceeded my expectations

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242106-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242107-1.jpg

I just love the 69 camaro, but I've always have been a pontiac guy, my first car was a 70 Grand Prix that would really run, but I think these birds are not getting the respect they deserve. This thing is going to be a killer pro touring car (not to toot my own horn, but I guess I am :smoke:)

So now the fun really begins. I hope to have steady updates in the coming months.

Sam

[carnalsupply]

Hey Sam,

That is one RIGHTEOUS F'bird! I drive by a '69 convertible Firebird (Triple White) every day on the way to work and wonder why they're just letting it sit there untouched: what a shame.

After seeing what problems you began with, and were able to overcome, gives me great hope for my own project ('64 Plymouth Fury), so keep up the good work!

[Young Gun]

looks amazing! makes me want a white car!

[MuscleRodz]

Looks great Sam

[Rybar]

That is one SICK looking Bird Sam. Killer Job you have done so far. My hats off to you for sure!

[dropit69]

Damn Sam..lol...paint looks killer !!! now comes the real fun..how long was it in paint jail from start till now?..holy cow i just looked your town up i just came to houston a few wekes ago on rt59 to get a 69 convert if i had known how close i was i would have dropped by..

[SamHatco]

Lol... Yeah Darrin, just 70 miles north of Houston. Time line was purchased car in March 07, started restoration in April 07, was at the sandblaster for 6 weeks in summer of 07, delivered car to body shop in July of 07 and stayed there until Jan 08, for metal and body work. Picked up car in Jan 08 to start fab and fit of engine, interior, suspension, brakes. Returned car back to body shop for final body prep and paint in Aug of 08. Just picked up car today March 09. Man, time flies when your having fun.

Sam

[zman1969]

Looking great Sam, that engine bay is too white? :) makin me jealous!!

[Motown 454]

Sam I'm all excited the car is home ,and its not even mine. I'm happy for you. Keep us posted.

[SamHatco]

Since I got the car back home it seems that other matters get in the way working on the car.... you know, anniverseries, spring break, and the such, anyhow I have managed to do a little bit of work on the car. I installed B-quiet in the interior and Dynamat inside the doors and rear bulkhead. I also installed the convertible top frame and tested it's operation.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/27994245004-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/27994245006-1.jpg

Since it was my anniversery last week the wife and I are taking a cruise tomorrow so I will be out of town for a few days.

Sam

[SamHatco]

I was goofing around the garage and decided to try out my idea of the third brake light. I think they will see me stop now.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/27994245069-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/27994245070-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/27994245068-1.jpg

What do you guys think? That's all for now bon voyage.

Sam

[CliffS]

Awesome car!! Love the third brake light

[Motown 454]

Looks great.

[Jamess113]

Wow nice looking project Sam! Keep up the good work! I can't wait to see it finshed. :twothumbs

[logikal6785]

What did you have to do to the new GTO steering shaft to make it fit ?

[ProdigyCustoms]

Sam, a little present came in today and left for you today. Should see it Tuesday.

[SamHatco]

Sam, a little present came in today and left for you today. Should see it Tuesday.


Awsome, Frank! I was wondering when it would arive. Thanks, for the great price.

Sam

[BlueBull]

Will you replace the top yourself? Can we expect some photos from that work? Great car!!

[SamHatco]

What did you have to do to the new GTO steering shaft to make it fit ?


Basicly we had to drill out the GTO shaft and replace it with a piece of double D bar stock. We also pinned the bar stock in the GTO shaft to insure that it would not fall out. The difficult part was milling the double D bar stock into a round shape to fit the GTO collum. It can be done, you just have to have a creative machine shop to jig up the double D bar stock. My machinist has about 40 yrs of experience and was able to make a jig to be able to chuck the double D bar stock onto his milling machine.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Will you replace the top yourself? Can we expect some photos from that work? Great car!!

I hope I can install the top, however, I might let a pro do it. In that event I will see if I can get pictures of the process.

Sam

[novaracer_2000]

I installed a top on my GTO a few years ago.This time i'm paying someone.:)

[billybobdupree]

Sam,
Amazing work. what more can anyone say!
I am attempting to install a "hidden hose" Vintage Air kit in my 69. Can you shed some light on how you routed the hoses under the dash. See the pic(yours) for more detail.
Thanks
Billie



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

[dhutton]

I hope I can install the top, however, I might let a pro do it. In that event I will see if I can get pictures of the process.

Sam

There is an episode of Musclecar covering the installation of the top on their 69 Trans Am clone. Might be worth watching. I had no idea how much work went into a convertible top install.

Here is the link:

http://www.powerblocktv.com/site3/index.php/watch-full-episodes/ep?ep_show=MC

[SamHatco]

Sam,
Amazing work. what more can anyone say!
I am attempting to install a "hidden hose" Vintage Air kit in my 69. Can you shed some light on how you routed the hoses under the dash. See the pic(yours) for more detail.
Thanks
Billie



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

Thanks for the compliments. My plan is to go just above the vent hole. I have plans to put speakers in the area where your arrow is pointing. Pehaps Frank @ Prodigy Customs could shed some light on the hose routing. This will be the same set up as he did on Empty Nest.

Sam

[SamHatco]

There is an episode of Musclecar covering the installation of the top on their 69 Trans Am clone. Might be worth watching. I had no idea how much work went into a convertible top install.

Here is the link:

http://www.powerblocktv.com/site3/index.php/watch-full-episodes/ep?ep_show=MC


Yes, I saw that episode and I even have it recorded. Watched it a few times. I too didn't realize what an ordeal it is to have a top properly aligned. I do understand about adjusting the windows because I was a line mechanic at a Chevy dealership way way back in 1972, working my way through college. It wasn't fun then and I know it won't be fun now trying to adjust door glass to stop air and water leaks. It was bad enough adjusting door glass on a hardtop, much less on a convertible.

Sam

[BMF Machine]

ExcellanT WorK!:)

[ssmith100]

Sam,

Car looks fantastic. I'd do a layer of ensolite on that floor board before I put the carpet in it. It will make a considerable difference.

Shane

[zman1969]

Yes, I saw that episode and I even have it recorded. Watched it a few times. I too didn't realize what an ordeal it is to have a top properly aligned. I do understand about adjusting the windows because I was a line mechanic at a Chevy dealership way way back in 1972, working my way through college. It wasn't fun then and I know it won't be fun now trying to adjust door glass to stop air and water leaks. It was bad enough adjusting door glass on a hardtop, much less on a convertible.

Sam
my last 69 bird vert needed adj someting fierce also new seals - on the 03 "deep south" Power Tour- I have never seen a car leak water SOOOOOO bad!! kinda sad too is it was super rust free had all original floors - I was going to do my TA clone with it but it was complete and running - didnt see the sense tearing it down and all that so i did a coupe parts car that I had bought few years back. keep working at it Sam, it inspires me to keep going!


Sam,

Car looks fantastic. I'd do a layer of ensolite on that floor board before I put the carpet in it. It will make a considerable difference.

Shane
Shane - what is that- ensolite??

[icebird84]

Shane - what is that??

Shane is a 1953 western

sorry could not help myself :)

[zman1969]

Shane is a 1953 western

sorry could not help myself :)
:screwy: now :getout:

[lt1chevelle]

that car is bad ass!! cant wait to see it done, gr8 work!!!



I'm worst than a kid on Christmas morning. I was going to pick the car up after work but the sun was shinning and I couldn't wait, anyway here are some shots out in the sun and loaded up to take home.

This thing really pops in the sunlight.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242094-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242095-1.jpg

Money shot of the wheels.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242097-1.jpg

This is the view those mustang guys are going to be seeing most

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242100-1.jpg

Those 18x10s 275/40s really fill up the rear wells. I rolled the outer lips just for a little insurance.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242101-1.jpg

Engine bay just waiting for the LS1/T56

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242103-1.jpg

Finally home!!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242105-1.jpg

This car has exceeded my expectations

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242106-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/7793242107-1.jpg

I just love the 69 camaro, but I've always have been a pontiac guy, my first car was a 70 Grand Prix that would really run, but I think these birds are not getting the respect they deserve. This thing is going to be a killer pro touring car (not to toot my own horn, but I guess I am :smoke:)

So now the fun really begins. I hope to have steady updates in the coming months.

Sam

[ssmith100]

Ensolite = basically a closed cell foam. While the Dynamat Extreme is good for creaks, rattles and "some" noise insolation, the ensolite acts as more of a road noise barrier. Worth every penny.

Ant at Second Skin sells a version that works very well. I used it on my CTS-V and it made a world of difference than just the extreme on the floor boards. Link: http://www.secondskinaudio.com/noise-filter/overkill.php

As far as the "movie" Shane goes, I have about twenty copies if anybody ever needs on. I get one just about every Christmas.

Sorry to thread jack Sam.

Shane

[SamHatco]

It' been a few days since my last update. Finally got the engine installed and completed/bled the brakes. :bananna2:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/04/27994252805-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/04/27994252807-1.jpg

Plumbed all the brake lines and installed the 7/8" bore Wilwood Master Cylinder along with the ATS hydraulic clutch assembly:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/04/27994252808-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/04/27994252809-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/04/27994252810-1.jpg

I'm working on the installing the Magnaflow 2 1/2" exhaust system I purchased from Frank. Very nice system and a great price, thanks Frank. Having a few issues with the exhaust though, since this is a convertible I'm having to cut and relocate the X pipes to allow for the Hotchkis convertible brace. My plans are to cut the pipes, tack weld them and take them to my local welder so he can tig weld the joints. I also had to remove the rear Hotchkis sway bar as the exhaust interfears with the sway bar. I read somewhere on here that some say the rear sway bar does not give that much advantage over not having one. At least that is what the debate has been.

Also had some issues with the front wheels clearing the LS1 brake calipers. I had to grind off a small amount off the top fins of the calipers for clearance. I also had a small tire rub issue with the frame, so I just added some weld to the turn stops on the lower controll arms and fixed that problem, took about 15 minutes. Will keep you guys posted.

Sam

[Motown 454]

Wow thats looking sweet!

[67SSDan]

Very cool man. Keep it up!

Dan

[steve g]

Glad to see the project coming along Sam. I bought one of the Magnaflow systems from Frank as well and love the sound on my 69 FB. I ended up sending the Hotchkis x brace back and will go with just the subframe connectors.

[SamHatco]

Glad to see the project coming along Sam. I bought one of the Magnaflow systems from Frank as well and love the sound on my 69 FB. I ended up sending the Hotchkis x brace back and will go with just the subframe connectors.

Getting the exhaust tucked up inside the x brace can be troublesome, but I love a challenge. I also believe you gain a lot of rigidity with the sub-frame connectors and x brace. Once I made the cuts I tacked the pieces together and sent it to my welder. He then tig welded the pipes and ground down the welds. Here are some pics of the exhaust. It was tight in the area of the x brace but after some careful measuring I got it to clear everything. Can't wait to hear it run.

Tucked up inside the x brace
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Mufflers are tucked up really nice to my new aluminum 3" drive shaft
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Tips just peek out below the rear quarter panels
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Sam

[SamHatco]

As with everyone else here, I've been looking for ways to dress up the engine bay, and I've noticed that on some of the higher end builds the water hoses being used are those very expensive braided lines, not to mention the AN fittings that go with them. I'm always looking for different ways to achieve the same look as these builds, but without breaking the budget. Snooping around my trusty McMaster Carr catalog I came across these braided sleeves

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

So I purchased a 10' roll for about 15 bucks along with some shrink clamps and thought I would try it out. What do you guys think?

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

These are just mocked up as I haven't heated up the clamps.

Sam

[dropit69]

car is looking killer i think the sleeves look good for what you are doing..it looks 100 percent better than a plain black hose..keep up the great updates..

[fantasygoat]

Got some part numbers on that sleeving? Looks great!

[SamHatco]

Got some part numbers on that sleeving? Looks great!

Yeah, the part # for the 1.5" sleeving is 2837K18 and the 1" is 2837K16. It's called Easy-Cut Polyester Expandable Mesh Sleeving. You can get it in 10' lengths. The 1.5" was on sale for $14.03 and the 1" was one sale for $9.18. I plan on using it for my heater hoses and a/c lines so I also got some chemical resistant PVC heat shrink tubing.

Sam

[Motown 454]

It looks great I'll have to remember those for my car.

[Hammered]

Lookin' good Sam. That's the same sleeving I used on mine. You can take thinner to clean the green part numbers off the shrink clamps before heating them. If you wait until after, it is harder to get the ink off.

[zman1969]

car is looking killer i think the sleeves look good for what you are doing..it looks 100 percent better than a plain black hose..keep up the great updates..
or 1000% better than that steel braded crap i see on some cars!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/04/27994252810-1.jpg

hey sam how did you like those locking header bolts? im looking for something for mine and it seems like its the usual "hardware store" ugly bolts, those or ive seen some that are split on the end that you screw in a bolt to tighten them up. I would really like some nice looking stainless bolts - dont really want to spend 50-60 bucks for header bolts :hammer:

[cdoggy81]

Sam,
That is exactly what I am going to do as well :)
She looks great & keep it up!

[SamHatco]

or 1000% better than that steel braded crap i see on some cars!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/04/27994252810-1.jpg

hey sam how did you like those locking header bolts? im looking for something for mine and it seems like its the usual "hardware store" ugly bolts, those or ive seen some that are split on the end that you screw in a bolt to tighten them up. I would really like some nice looking stainless bolts - dont really want to spend 50-60 bucks for header bolts :hammer:

Rich,

Those are stage 8 header bolts and are guaranteed not to come loose. The quality is top notch. I think I gave around 40-50 for the set. It's good insurance not having headers leaking. Thanks for the comps. Your car is coming along great.

Sam

[gearheads78]

build is looking killer!!!

[SamHatco]

I got a nice supprise from the UPS guy yesterday from Southern Performance. My new Synister front drive system. Very, very nice product. Couldn't wait to put it on. Here are a few shots of the installed system.

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

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

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

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

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

I've read that other members had trouble with the service support from Synister in the past, but Southern Performance was most helpful in answereing any questions I had with the install.

Next up running power steering lines, a/c lines, heater lines, and installing the radiator and Mark VIII fan.

Sam

[Motown 454]

Thats a sweet looking system. The car is coming along great..

[zman1969]

just have one word: SCHWING!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Oh Sam, I hate to , but that throttle body is kinda BLAH now - billet one? :)

[msgnfg]

Wow - unbelievable! I just found this post and read the whole thing tonight. It gives me hope for mine. Thanks for the boost and what a killer car!

[SamHatco]

Oh same I hate to , but thet throttle body is kinda BLAH now - billet one? :)

Yeah, I know. I'm working on it. It never fails, once you restore or clean up one part you have to do the stuff next to it because it looks so bad and you didn't even know it.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Wow - unbelievable! I just found this post and read the whole thing tonight. It gives me hope for mine. Thanks for the boost and what a killer car!

Thanks Neil, so far its going on 2yrs working and playing with this car.

Sam

[cdoggy81]

Sam, looks great!
What does something like that setup run BTW?

[SamHatco]

Cdoggy,

Sent you a pm.

Sam

[cdoggy81]

Sam, I never got it :( Send it again or email me.

[68400BIRD]

WOW!!! is all I have to say. This car is beautiful and it is one of a kind. I just finished going through all ten pages. I am very impressed with all of the work. Except for the po's work. LOL Keep us updated.

[SamHatco]

WOW!!! is all I have to say. This car is beautiful and it is one of a kind. I just finished going through all ten pages. I am very impressed with all of the work. Except for the po's work. LOL Keep us updated.


Thanks 68400BIRD! It's great to see more pontiac guys on the site.

Sam

[Code Red]

I got a nice supprise from the UPS guy yesterday from Southern Performance. My new Synister front drive system. Very, very nice product. Couldn't wait to put it on. Here are a few shots of the installed system.

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

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

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

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

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

I've read that other members had trouble with the service support from Synister in the past, but Southern Performance was most helpful in answereing any questions I had with the install.

Next up running power steering lines, a/c lines, heater lines, and installing the radiator and Mark VIII fan.

Sam

OMG sexy

[SamHatco]

Decided to go a little different route on the engine. Waiting on some power steering hose adapters, made a little more progress. Also waiting for my chromed throttle body and maf from Street & Performance.. but you kinda get the idea the direction I'm heading. LS1/LS6, balanced blueprinted, heads ported and polished, comp cam, hooker headers, synister front drive system. :)

Intake and stripe color is HOK Oriental Pearl Blue. White is toyota super bright white. Pictures do not do the engine justice, you just want to stand a stare, it really pops!

What do you guys think?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/06/27994264048-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/06/27994264049-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/06/27994264051-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/06/27994264052-1.jpg

Sam

[69TAPoser]

WOW!

:yum:

[SamHatco]

WOW!

:yum:

lol, Thanks Phil.

Thats exactly how I felt when I stood back and look what I installed. I just love it when you have this idea in your head and when you execute that idea, it turns out better than expected.

Sam

[shortrack]

Georgeous.......!!!!!

[68400BIRD]

Thats just sick looking. In a very good kind of way.

[cdoggy81]

WOW!!!!! That is so sharp! Excellent choice Sam, excellent :)

[Rybar]

Looks killer!

[Motown 454]

Your progress is looking great.

[SamHatco]

Ever try to work on your car when it's 100+ degrees with a feels like 107? It ain't fun! Anyway having said that I've been working on my punch list items and this is where I'm at now.

I wanted to use the DSE wiper kit but I just couldn't justify in my own mind the $$$'s. So I found a 2002 wiper motor and fabbed my own adapter plate out of 1/8 steel plate. I then took the wiper motor and plate along with my old wiper motor to a machine shop and had them make an adapter for the wiper arm. The guy machined a stainless steel rod that screws onto the new wiper motor and machined the other end for the wiper arm. With the old motor to go by he place the wiper arm within a 32nd of an inch from its original location. The motor cost me $30 and the machine work was $75. That's whole lot cheaper than the DSE kit. I'm using the 04 GTO body harness so all I will have to do is plug her in and I'm good to go.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994267404-1.jpg

I also got the vintage air system installed and plumbed up:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268834-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268835-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268836-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268837-1.jpg

Installed the PRC radiator and fabbed up brackets for the Mark VIII fan. I had my local welder weld the brackets to the radiator and it turn out perfect.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268838-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268839-1.jpg

I also plumbed the power steering lines. All that's left is the electrical. I called Mark at MAD Electrical and got a quick tutoring on electrical systems, boy that guy knows his stuff and ordered some of his products.

Sam

[LSX1STGEN]

I am very interested in your wiper set up. What 2002 vehicle did you use for the motor?

Thanks, Clay

[225jeff]

Did you take any pictures of your wiper setup? I am interested as well. :)

Jeff

[BMF Machine]

Man, that thing is looking SmooootH! Excellant eye for style!

[SamHatco]

I am very interested in your wiper set up. What 2002 vehicle did you use for the motor?

Thanks, Clay

Clay, the wiper motor was used on the 4th gen f bodies.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Did you take any pictures of your wiper setup? I am interested as well. :)

Jeff

Jeff, I'll post up some picutres on how I did the mod. It was really pretty easy. The key to this mod is to get the wiper arm as close to the original position so the wiper transmission arms don't bind up. Also you need a switch for the delay feature. I'm using the 04 GTO steering wheel so the switch is not a problem for me, however there are several after market cruise/wiper/turn signal levers out there that you can use on the factory steering column that have the delay feature.

Sam

[69TAPoser]

Wow, Sam. It's looking fantastic! :1st:

Looks like you may be driving by Sept.? :)

Phil

[SamHatco]

Wow, Sam. It's looking fantastic! :1st:

Looks like you may be driving by Sept.? :)

Phil

Thanks Phil, coming from you that means a lot because I think your build in one of the best on this site. That's what I hope to be doing is to have a running car by Labor Day. It's so damn hot down here now that you don't even what to get in the garage.

Sam

[68400BIRD]

Car looks great. I plan on doing the vintage air set up to. Do you plan on running all of your hoses between the inner and outer fender? I also plan on smoothing part of my firewall with the detroit speed kit. Did you cut everything out and replace with new metal or did you smooth the original body line along with new sheet metal?

[SamHatco]

Car looks great. I plan on doing the vintage air set up to. Do you plan on running all of your hoses between the inner and outer fender? I also plan on smoothing part of my firewall with the detroit speed kit. Did you cut everything out and replace with new metal or did you smooth the original body line along with new sheet metal?

If you will notice in the previous pictures the hoses enter the firewall where the heater motor use to be and the hoses are routed along the top of the fender well. Once you put the fenders on you won't see the hoses except when they exit down low by the engine. Makes for a nice clean look. On smoothing the firewall we used patch panels to fill the holes. If I were do it over I would have purchased some 16 or 18 gauge sheet metal and make one large panel to cover all the holes and spot weld it in, much quicker. Hope this helps.

Sam

[SamHatco]

Did you take any pictures of your wiper setup? I am interested as well. :)

Jeff

Jeff, and to all that might want to do this mod the following is my write up on the wiper motor install.

To begin with I used a wiper motor from an 02 f-body car
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268918-1.jpg

The first thing I did was make a template out of cardboard setting out the hole locations for the firewall and for the wiper motor

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268915-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268916-1.jpg

The next step was to determine the location of the wiper motor onto the adapter plate. That was accomplished by drawing an outline of the back side of the cardboard template and measuring the 69 wiper motor shaft location

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268917-1.jpg

Here is a picture of the 69 wiper motor. You will notice that the shaft in not in the center of the hole

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268931-1.jpg

Next I made an adapter plate out of 1/8th steel plate drilled and countersunk the holes so the screws would be flush
Front
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268919-1.jpg
Back
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268920-1.jpg

I then took the entire motor with plate attached to my machinist and he machined an adapter bolt out of stainless steel that screws into the new wiper motor and uses the 69 wiper arm

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268924-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268921-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268922-1.jpg

Here is a picture of all the components used
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268923-1.jpg

I'm only allowed 12 pictures so continued below.

Sam

[SamHatco]

This is a picture of everything assembled
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268930-1.jpg

And here is a picture from inside the cowl with the motor installed and the wiper arm transmission installed. It looks close, but there is about a finger's width of room when the arm rotates
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268929-1.jpg

Hope this helps

Sam

[Motown 454]

Nice progress . I think you will help more than just a few guys with this write up. . It came out nice.

[cdoggy81]

Yes Sam, excellent work indeed!!!
I feel ya too about the heat.... it sux... :(

[zman1969]

This is a picture of everything assembled
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268930-1.jpg

And here is a picture from inside the cowl with the motor installed and the wiper arm transmission installed. It looks close, but there is about a finger's width of room when the arm rotates
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994268929-1.jpg

Hope this helps

Sam
Damn nice work Sam!!!

[SamHatco]

just have one word: SCHWING!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Oh Sam, I hate to , but that throttle body is kinda BLAH now - billet one? :)

Got a delivery from Street & Performance yesterday. I think this looks a little better.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994269753-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994269756-1.jpg

What do you guys think?

Sam

[68/CamaroFL]

Sam,
Very Nice Project!!:twothumbs

[wellis77]

Intake and stripe color is HOK Oriental Pearl Blue. White is toyota super bright white. Pictures do not do the engine justice, you just want to stand a stare, it really pops!


I'm looking at a blue for my Dart and was thinking the Viper GTS Blue but I really like the blue you used. Is the Oriental Blue on the engine the same as the blue stripe on the car? I've been looking at the HOK color charts and it shows the Oriental Blue over a metallic base. Can you tell me which base you used?

That is a hot color and your car is amazing! Great job!

[SamHatco]

I'm looking at a blue for my Dart and was thinking the Viper GTS Blue but I really like the blue you used. Is the Oriental Blue on the engine the same as the blue stripe on the car? I've been looking at the HOK color charts and it shows the Oriental Blue over a metallic base. Can you tell me which base you used?

That is a hot color and your car is amazing! Great job!


Thanks for the compliment. Yes it is. The color is over a silver base I believe. Hope this helps

Sam

[68400BIRD]

Looks great as always. I started to jamb my last car the same color, viper blue. I went back to the Rally Sport stock colors. My wife wants me to paint the firebird blue so I'm leaning towards that color or a dark blue that is on the newer Cayeens (sp).

[BanditDave]

This car is an inspiration to me man! I love it. Planning on doing the same thing down the road a bit. Love it man...absolutely love it!:1st::1st::1st::1st::1st:

[SamHatco]

Thanks, BanditDave

This is the fun part putting everything back together.

Sam

[1Michel]

Got a delivery from Street & Performance yesterday. I think this looks a little better.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994269753-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994269756-1.jpg

What do you guys think?

Sam


Hey Sam this is one nice build, beautifully done.
May I bring your attention on something.

I see your air filter is near the rad, it will probably suck in hot air into the engine.
Last month, Super Chevy magazine adressed this with a Camaro and changed the air intake so cooler air would get into the engine.
Got a few HP in the process.
Maybe you should check this out.

http://www.superchevy.com/technical/engines_drivetrain/induction_poweradders/sucp_0907_1969_chevrolet_camaro_air_intake/index.html


Again beautifull car my son is crazy about birds and we enjoyed your build. Keep it up.

[SamHatco]

Hey Sam this is one nice build, beautifully done.
May I bring your attention on something.

I see your air filter is near the rad, it will probably suck in hot air into the engine.
Last month, Super Chevy magazine adressed this with a Camaro and changed the air intake so cooler air would get into the engine.
Got a few HP in the process.
Maybe you should check this out.

http://www.superchevy.com/technical/engines_drivetrain/induction_poweradders/sucp_0907_1969_chevrolet_camaro_air_intake/index.html


Again beautifull car my son is crazy about birds and we enjoyed your build. Keep it up.

Thanks! Yes I know this isn't the most efficient way to get air into the engine, but I needed something quick. My future plans are to utilize the hood scoops on the trans am hood. Make a y shaped intake tube to both sides of the engine and fab some type of ram air system. This is just to get me running. I've been working on this thing for 2 years and its time to git r dun. :)

Sam

[1Michel]

Thanks! Yes I know this isn't the most efficient way to get air into the engine, but I needed something quick. My future plans are to utilize the hood scoops on the trans am hood. Make a y shaped intake tube to both sides of the engine and fab some type of ram air system. This is just to get me running. I've been working on this thing for 2 years and its time to git r dun. :)

Sam

Yes I know the feeling LOL and I didnt want to critisize, your doing on heck of a job.
I remember you cutting openings on the hood too and when I read the part in the magazine I thought about your car. they gave the same reason too, LOL we'll get it running and see later.

Again, super nice project. :1st:

[cdoggy81]

"My future plans are to utilize the hood scoops on the trans am hood."
That's what I'm talking about Sam! I want to do a 70-73 Formula next the same way :)

[gearheads78]

Engine looks killer and the kick ass job on the poors mans wiper motor.

[NickS351GT]

Got a delivery from Street & Performance yesterday. I think this looks a little better.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994269753-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/27994269756-1.jpg

What do you guys think?

Sam
Hey Sam,read your build thread page for page and its lookin killer man!White and blue combo looks clean n fresh.Cant wait to see that dashboard installed n lit up...Nice work mate,keep the pics comin.
Cheers Nick-Sydney Australia :)

[SamHatco]

Engine looks killer and the kick ass job on the poors mans wiper motor.

Thanks, Richard, I always look for ways to build things myself if I have the tools, materials, and can figure a way to build it. I get a lot of satisfaction in saying "Yeah, I made that", much more than saying "Yeah, I bought that from ....".

Sam

[SamHatco]

Hey Sam,read your build thread page for page and its lookin killer man!White and blue combo looks clean n fresh.Cant wait to see that dashboard installed n lit up...Nice work mate,keep the pics comin.
Cheers Nick-Sydney Australia :)

Thanks, Nick! You guys down under are making some great rides also. Didn't know you Aussies were as passionate about cars as we are until I got on this site.

Sam

[SamHatco]

One of the items on my check list to do was to see if I could get a working cruise control. I plan on driving this car on long trips and thought it would be nice to have cruise. With that in mind I picked up a cruise control module from a salvage yard for about $30.00. Evidently there isn't much demand for these. Anyway, I studied how I wanted to incorporate the cruise control into my build and this is the solution I came up with.

Here are some pictures of a cruise control module used by GM for the last 10 years or so. This one is from an 04 GTO
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/27994275067-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/27994275068-1.jpg

This is a partial picture of the cable
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/27994275069-1.jpg

I wanted to keep the engine bay as clean and uncluttered as possible and after looking at the passenger side fender I decided that there is too much stuff going on with the a/c and heater lines to try and locate the module behind the fender. So I decided to locate the cruise module on the driver side between the wheel house and the firewall. Well the cable was nowhere near long enough and it looked awful. I gave Lokar a called and talked to one of their technicians and he asked me to e-mail me some pictures of the control module, the same ones you see here. He promptly got back with me and said there was no problem making up a cable to adapt to the GM controller. He told me all he needed was the cable so I sent it to him. They made up a 48" cable for me and here is the installed pictures. The people at Lokar were very easy to work with. It was a pleasure doing business with them, I highly recommend them.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/27994275062-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/27994275061-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/27994275063-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/27994275064-1.jpg

I think it turned out pretty nice. Once the fender is installed with the controller located behind the fender on the driver side the only thing visible is the cable and it blends in with what I have done so far.

Next up the wiring, ugh.

Sam

[Motown 454]

Sam nice job on that it looks neat. You have a beautiful build.

[SamHatco]

Thanks, Wayne, I appreciate the complement. How is you project coming along? I haven't seen a progress post in while. It looks fantastic so far.

Sam

[Motown 454]

Nothing new with the car from Mike. He's painting another members car right now . He gave me his word and promised me mine is next and I will get it soon. I really need to get on it .I've had the engine for over three years and never heard it run waiting for the body to come back. But atleast I know the work will be excelent.

[Jon69RagTop]

Keep us posted on the cruise control.

I too have found the folks at Lokar to be awesome to work with.

[jackfrost]

I love the attention to detail on this project. nice work Sam.

[SamHatco]

It's been 2 1/2 years since I started this project and we finally got to the stage where we could fire up the engine. Well my goal was to have a running car by labor day and we did it! :jump: Still have a few issues to work out.... fuel gauge is not working, I haven't completed the fan wiring and need to clean up the rest of the wiring then on to the interior. :smoke:

Here is a link to the first start video. Here you go!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MNgewcm1Z8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MNgewcm1Z8)

[Motown 454]

Sweet ! I'm happy for you it sounds great. That must have felt great on the first try .

[cdoggy81]

Sam, that must be a GREAT feeling! Congrats to you!
2 questions for you:
1 - what brand is the volt & oil pressure gauges?
2 - what is that ticking sound from the engine?

[1968CamaroSS_Sam]

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

[SamHatco]

Sam, that must be a GREAT feeling! Congrats to you!
2 questions for you:
1 - what brand is the volt & oil pressure gauges?
2 - what is that ticking sound from the engine?

Thanks Chris,

The volt & oil pressure gauges come from South Coast Speed & Sound, www.teamscss.com (http://www.teamscss.com) they make the Gator Pod for the GTO. The ticking sound is the belt tensioner pulley and the a/c compressor, mostly the a/c compressor. Should quiet down when I charge the a/c system (I hope).

Sam

[SamHatco]

Sweet ! I'm happy for you it sounds great. That must have felt great on the first try .

Thanks Wayne,

Still struggling with the fuel gauge though. I posted over in wiring & electrical for some help. Maybe some electrical guru could help with a solution.

Sam