'68 Firebird

[CliffS]

Just wanted to share. After almost a year the Bird has got a fresh, new engine! The engine that broke down was build in the US and since I am across the Atlantic I went to a local builder this time; Rubert Enjoem from SSPerformance. Last week the first test runs were made and they were very impressive. Can't wait to drive her back home!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/Picture156-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/digitalefotos010-1.jpg

[Smock67]

nice nice is it poncho powered? any pics of the rest of the car?

[69camarokid]

that engine looks wicked!

[CliffS]

nice nice is it poncho powered? any pics of the rest of the car?

Thanks guys. Yes, it's Poncho powered (461).
Some more pics:

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

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

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/Picture0391-1.jpg

[Smock67]

damn that looks good real good

[WS6]

I like that hood. Who makes that one?

[68zz502fi]

I have a 68 camaro and I love it. I have to confess tho, thats one sweet 68 firebird ! :1st:

[CliffS]

I like that hood. Who makes that one?

VFN
http://vfnfiberglass.com/site.htm

[CliffS]

Drove the Bird back home last Saturday after putting back the gas tank with sump. It was a blast to drive her again.
Took some pics yesterday , I know yo guys like pics...:lol:

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

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/Picture064-1.jpg

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

[4birdman]

Wow, I love that hood! Good looking car, man!

[69TAPoser]

Very nice! The engine looks like it got a nice treatment of Kauffman go-fast goodies! :twothumbs

Where did you get the water neck? I need to replace my chrome cheepo unit. Also, is that the DSE wiper motor? And is that a Lokar throttle cable?

Phil

[ZVT]

Wow thats exactly what i'm going to be building with the exeption of the wheels I am going with Year one honeycombs.

VERY NICE CAR!!!
Heres a rendering i did of mine

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/10/1968_Pontiac_Firebird_by_zvtdesigns-1.jpg

[CliffS]

Wow, I love that hood! Good looking car, man!

Yeah, don't you just love that hood:) :

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

[CliffS]

Very nice! The engine looks like it got a nice treatment of Kauffman go-fast goodies! :twothumbs

Where did you get the water neck? I need to replace my chrome cheepo unit. Also, is that the DSE wiper motor? And is that a Lokar throttle cable?

Phil

Phil,

We used a couple of KRE goodies (very nice heads, flow 310). I ordered the waterneck with Summit a while ago, they have only one or two for Pontiac. It is the DSE unit and Lokar cable.

Cliff

[CliffS]

Wow thats exactly what i'm going to be building with the exeption of the wheels I am going with Year one honeycombs.

VERY NICE CAR!!!
Heres a rendering i did of mine

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/10/1968_Pontiac_Firebird_by_zvtdesigns-1.jpg

Love that rendering!!! I looked at those wheels too and the PT's from Bose. Did you already start building?

[ZVT]

Love that rendering!!! I looked at those wheels too and the PT's from Bose. Did you already start building?

Not yet still in the process...

[Moabdude]

I saw Cliff's Bird for real.
It's a bad ass ride!
Very nice Cliff.

[CliffS]

Last Summer I talked about some new shoes for the Bird with Frank.
I drove her the last year with some Rushforths:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/08/Digitalefotos065-1.jpg

Since Frank could cut me a nice deal for Forgeline wheels I went that way. It took some time to cross the Ocean but today I was able to pick up the new wheels.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/Digitalefotos0011-1.jpg


Big thanks to Scott @ Forgeline, pleasure to work with, and Frank @ Prodigy Customs!!

[CliffS]

And mounted:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/Digitalefotos011-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/Digitalefotos016-1.jpg

[CruizinKev]

nice man :twothumbs

[68400BIRD]

That is one nice looking car. I want your old rims. Can you give me some specs on the old rims (back) width and back spacing along with tire size. LOVE THE HOOD!!!!! Nice touch on the steering wheel. Small things like that really make a car.

[19,69camaro]

I like the forgelines the they are much cooler than the torques and they fith the white and black theme

[Young Gun]

nasty man... nasty

[r.a.w.rods]

I think the black wheels go great with the white.

[colt zantop]

oh yeah...those forgelines are sick!

[rickpaw]

Looks great. I hope my 67 will come out as nice.

Tu

[AtomicFirebird]

Nice ride. I am going to order the same hood from the same place. How do you like it? I was wondering what it looked like on a 67, 68 firebird. It looks great.

[68byrd]

Cliff. The new wheels look great! We need more pics out on the road. I love the hood also. I too was wondering what a 69' T/A hood would look like on a 68'.

[CliffS]

That is one nice looking car. I want your old rims. Can you give me some specs on the old rims (back) width and back spacing along with tire size. LOVE THE HOOD!!!!! Nice touch on the steering wheel. Small things like that really make a car.

Specs:

Rushforth Super Spoke. Brushed centers, polished outers (soft lip).

Bolt patern 5 x 4.75

Front: 18x8
Backspacing 4 7/8,
Tires Falken KF452 245/40

Rear: 18x9
Backspacing 5 1/4
Tires Falken KF452 275/40

You're more then welcome to check them out but be aware I'm located in Amsterdam, The Netherlands :smoke:

[CliffS]

Nice ride. I am going to order the same hood from the same place. How do you like it? I was wondering what it looked like on a 67, 68 firebird. It looks great.

Hood looks great but had some fitment issues with the stock hinges where the hood meets the cowl. The Fesler hinges makes it even worse, got some tweaking to do..

[CliffS]

Cliff. The new wheels look great! We need more pics out on the road. I love the hood also. I too was wondering what a 69' T/A hood would look like on a 68'.

I like to hit the road but temprature dropped below 30's and lots of snow around here

[LeighP]

Car looks great....love those wheels with the hood.

[68400BIRD]

Specs:

Rushforth Super Spoke. Brushed centers, polished outers (soft lip).

Bolt patern 5 x 4.75

Front: 18x8
Backspacing 4 7/8,
Tires Falken KF452 245/40

Rear: 18x9
Backspacing 5 1/4
Tires Falken KF452 275/40

You're more then welcome to check them out but be aware I'm located in Amsterdam, The Netherlands :smoke:


Sounds like a road/plane trip. LOL

[Martin71RS]

ziet er goed uit!

Oh, if you have storage problems I know where you can leave the Rushforths.....:1st:

[796spdbu]

beautiful car!

[Chicken Louie]

I love the look of the car with the t/a hood with the new rims.

[Moabdude]

Nice wheels Cliff, looks great on your white poncho.
Now you have 2 sets of wheels.
Well I only have 5.....

Love the stance.

[gto406]

Looking good Cliff!

I thought the Rushforths looked really 'sweet' on your Bird, although the Forgelines give it a nice 'stance'.

Cheers,
Brian
'72 GTO.

[rohrt]

Love it.

[CliffS]

Thanks for the kudos guys!
Small update on the interior. I replaced the billet steering wheel for a Momo unit with a Poncho touch.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/07/Digitalefotos052-1.jpg

[CruizinKev]

nice man! I also liked the billet steering wheel.. what diameter and brand is it?

[CliffS]

nice man! I also liked the billet steering wheel.. what diameter and brand is it?


By hard it is 13" from Billet Specialties

[Fesler built]

Hood looks great but had some fitment issues with the stock hinges where the hood meets the cowl. The Fesler hinges makes it even worse, got some tweaking to do..


If you are having issuse with your hinges please give us a call so we can figure out why 602-953-8944. Thanks

[ProdigyCustoms]

Just seeing this. Wow! What a aggresive look with the Forgelines.

[CliffS]

If you are having issuse with your hinges please give us a call so we can figure out why 602-953-8944. Thanks

It's too da.. cold now but I will have to look into this. If I can not work it out I will drop you a line. Thanks Chris!!

[CliffS]

Just seeing this. Wow! What a aggresive look with the Forgelines.

Haha, really happy with the Forgelines. Thanks again Frank!!

[T_Raven]

Get bored with wheels often do you Cliff? lol. I like the Rushforths alot but black wheels on a white car looks good.

[CliffS]

Get bored with wheels often do you Cliff? lol. I like the Rushforths alot but black wheels on a white car looks good.


Hey T, how' things in Iraq? Wheel are just like shoes and women..you need to change once a while LOL

[Bob's68]

Wow found my new hood haha

I love the car looks great

[aww]

And mounted:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/Digitalefotos011-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/12/Digitalefotos016-1.jpg

these pics make me shiver from pure sexyness

[speedster]

Your Firebird looks great Cliff. Very nice with the Forgelines and the hood... Excellent !

[CliffS]

Thanks Bruce. It's time to prepare her for the spring. Got still some more work to do.

[CliffS]

More pics are coming since the weather is getting better overhere. Shot this one...



https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/Ricarda002-1.jpg

[Dons67]

love the new wheels - they really set off the hood

[68firebird]

That is exactly how I want mine to sit, love those rims too!!

[CliffS]

Temperature hits the low 90's overhere. Took her and the mrs out for a ride yesterday. I took some pics in front of a building I pass everyday on my way to work, check them out:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/005-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/006-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/011-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/013-1.jpg

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

now thats what im talking about..

all the great elements of a great life.

[T_Raven]

Nice!

[elitecustombody]

Looking good!

[CruizinKev]

looking good :twothumbs

[SamHatco]

Cliff, looks awesome:twothumbs. I bet you get a lot of looks and comments on your bird over there.

Sam

[Lenie]

Cliff, great pictures. Always liked your car. The black and white contrasting colors gives the car character.

[Bob's68]

I <3 your Firbird

It just looks so good.

[CliffS]

Thanks guys! And yes those are all the great elements of a great life!
Just finished installing a smoked glass kit and new mirrors.

[CliffS]

Cliff, great pictures. Always liked your car. The black and white contrasting colors gives the car character.

Hi Lenie, how's the Bird coming along?

[ponjohn]

I love first gen's in white.

Very nice!!

[GM_muscle]

wow the wheels look kil as the sterring wheel but i think the center of the rim would pop in gold.

[67cougnut]

Thanks guys. Yes, it's Poncho powered (461).
Some more pics:

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

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

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/Picture0391-1.jpg

did you have this horn button made? if so by who?

[CliffS]

I believe it was Mark Strelka (NH?). He used to be on the Performance Years board.

[CliffS]

Time for an update, been a year I see.
After driving around for a while I played with thought for upgrading the front and rear suspension.
Having the tubular a-arms and coil overs for years a spindle upgrade: L&H tall spindles, the rear will have to part from the leaf springs and receive a 4 link which is on it's way together with new headers and a new valley pan.

[CliffS]

4830048299

[CliffS]

Waiting for some bolts to finish the spindle job.
Magnaflow exhaust kit from Frank arrived today. Also an upholstery job for the rear seat and package tray.

[neki67]

Looking good Cliff!

Will you be in time to join us for the Fast Car Festival (http://www.fast-car-festival.nl/)?

[CliffS]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/rearseat-1.jpg

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

[CliffS]

Looking good Cliff!

Will you be in time to join us for the Fast Car Festival (http://www.fast-car-festival.nl/)?

Hey Rene,

Well I wish, the bolts holding me back from puting back the brakes back. The 4 link will be here end of next month together with the new sway bar (torsion bar).
And as an extra; I will be Dad again between now and 3 weeks.

[Moabdude]

Hi Cliff, lots of new improvements!
Sounds good. The Magnaflow also. I have one as well. Nice mellow sound.

What 4-link did you get? I am also considering to change the leafs for a 4-link.

Where did I see that rear bench before? 68 camaro...... yes, your buddy Erik. Looks like you guys share the same floor.....

Dad again? whow, you've really been busy lately :-)

[WS6]

congrats on the new kid Cliff. I'm also glad to see you getting a lot of use out of the car. The upholstery looks great.

[CliffS]

Hi Cliff, lots of new improvements!
Sounds good. The Magnaflow also. I have one as well. Nice mellow sound.

What 4-link did you get? I am also considering to change the leafs for a 4-link.

Where did I see that rear bench before? 68 camaro...... yes, your buddy Erik. Looks like you guys share the same floor.....

Dad again? whow, you've really been busy lately :-)


Hey Bram,

I saw you finished your Camaro, Looking good, really good!!!!
It was time for some improvements, car didn't handle the way I wanted.
Hahahaha yeah Erik and I got a nice deal on leather upholstery and it matches the new Sparco seats.
4- Link is from Chassiswork, partly here and partly on its way while we are speaking. I thought you has Airride on all 4 corners.
Yep, very busy :) Couple of weeks only then I will be very very busy LOL

[CliffS]

congrats on the new kid Cliff. I'm also glad to see you getting a lot of use out of the car. The upholstery looks great.


hey Trey!
Thanks! I wish I could (AB-) use it a lot more ;)

[chrismoe]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/rearseat-1.jpg

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

Very cool back seat stitching.

Chris

[Lenie]

Cliff, just keeps getting better. Did you do your own exhaust? Looks really really good. Kudo's

[CliffS]

Cliff, just keeps getting better. Did you do your own exhaust? Looks really really good. Kudo's
Hey Lenie, long time! How'things going? Trying to improve her. Exhaust is from Magnaflow through Frank. Got a lot of wrenching to do when all parts arrive.

[CliffS]

Got my bolts fom L&H and bolted the bracket and Wilwood stuff

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/IMG_0159-1.jpg

Closer look on steering arms after mock up

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/IMG_0165-1.jpg

New sway bar and G bar will pop up next week

[CliffS]

Brown Truck? naaaah probably brown sea container arrived:

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

new headers, 4-link, new sway bar, billet sill plates and some more

[CliffS]

yesterday evening a valley pan swap

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/IMG_0219-1.jpg

internals were looking good

also some billet hinges which were laying around for the last 1 1/2 years

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/IMG_0225-1.jpg

[CliffS]

Just installed the Ridetech Muscle Bar. I will have to relocate the Posi links to clear the Steering arm

@ Darren @ Ridetech; thanks for the awesome support & service!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/IMG_0243-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/IMG_0245-1.jpg

[Pontiac Chris]

Hey Cliff, the car looks amazing, love the T/A hood and the Forgelines! Those L&H tall spindles are sweet, sounds like you have nice little suspension upgrade going, let us know how much better it handles/rides. What size tires did you end up running?

[CliffS]

Hey Chris, thanks!
I will do so. I ended up with 235/40/18 and 280/35/18.
Just for the record and see if my brains still work; was your car destroyed by fire back in the UK?

[Martin71RS]

Looks good, you've been busey!! When it's finished you have to get it to a track....trust me...you'll love it and can finally use it where it's built for....

Martin

[Pontiac Chris]

Yeah thats me, that was back in 2000, its a real FIREbird y'know! Good luck with your car and keep the updates coming.

[CliffS]

Looks good, you've been busey!! When it's finished you have to get it to a track....trust me...you'll love it and can finally use it where it's built for....

Martin

Trying to :) Some hours in the evening. I know, hopefully next season!

[CliffS]

Yeah thats me, that was back in 2000, its a real FIREbird y'know! Good luck with your car and keep the updates coming.

it still works ;) I followed your website back then ( you know, not too many Birds across the Pond). Awesome car, very nice color!

[CliffS]

Took the Bird to my buddies alignment shop. With the DSE camber shims and taking taking into account the old shims,specs were almost good except
for some toe in/out adjustments.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/IMG00099201109011408-1.jpg

Received some new "lightning" yesterday

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

[T_Raven]

Nice lights! Who makes them? Are the tail lights reproductions or are they aftermarket made to look different? hard to tell in the pic but they don't look quite like stock

[CliffS]

T,

I've been looking a long time for some decent headlights and finally found them @ the Ring Brothers. The tail lights are from Fesler.
Installed this afternoon:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/IMG_0297-1.jpg

[Lenie]

Hi Cliff, other than the black aluminum housing, what are the differences between the fesler tail lights and the stock tail lights? Been debating on buying a set if there are major differences. Thanks


Took the Bird to my buddies alignment shop. With the DSE camber shims and taking taking into account the old shims,specs were almost good except
for some toe in/out adjustments.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/IMG00099201109011408-1.jpg

Received some new "lightning" yesterday

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

[WS6]

Looking good Cliff. Have you have a chance to drive the car hard enough to notice a difference in the handling?

[CliffS]

Just had a small trip from the alignment shop back to the garage. Had two nice curves where I cornered 0.8G. It feeled like more sharper steering but have to make more road time to tell.

[Moabdude]

Cliff, can you give me your alignment specs?
I need to do the alignment on my 68 Camaro soon.
Assuming the specs for 68 Firebird and 68 Camaro are the same?

Thanks

[CliffS]

Bram,

I used these specs:
Street Performance

Camber -1/2 deg
caster +5 to +5.5 deg
Toe in 1/16" total

[neki67]

Bram,

I use the same alignment specs (do my own alignment). It's (pretty much) OK for street use but you need more camber for track use.

That is, in case you're not using Tall Spindles or Tall Upper Ball Joints. These will give you an improved Camber Curve and keep your wheels flat on the ground instead of tilted to the outside edge of the tire.

[CliffS]

Chris, long postponed project after major set back. Got the hood nice and tidy between the fenders. Once closed the hood is forced upwards in the middle near the bothe fenders. I decided to remove the struts and the hoos is ok. The hood weights 26 (fiberglass) and the struts have a red dot on them. Are the the right ones?

[CliffS]

another long postponed project, one of the group purchase on the board.....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/IMG00110201109241452-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/IMG00111201109241546-1.jpg

my buddy Erik (project Amsterdamned overhere) playing with the welder

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/IMG00111201109241546-1.jpg

love this pic

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/IMG00117201109241648-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/IMG00121201109241801-1.jpg

[T_Raven]

Nice I'm wanting to do the same with mine

[Smock67]

Continually improving on an already nice Bird, maybe one day I'll get to do some upgrades besides the building.

[CliffS]

Nice I'm wanting to do the same with mine

kind of scarry cutting up your car. But with test fitting the gas cap it's worth the effort!

[CliffS]

Continually improving on an already nice Bird, maybe one day I'll get to do some upgrades besides the building.
Thanks Chris.

[CliffS]

If you are having issuse with your hinges please give us a call so we can figure out why 602-953-8944. Thanks

Chris, long postponed project after major set back. Got the hood nice and tidy between the fenders. Once closed the hood is forced upwards in the middle near the both fenders. I decided to remove the struts and the hood is ok. The hood weights 26 (fiberglass) and the struts have a red dot on them. Are the the right ones?

[Moabdude]

Are you using EMS?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/IMG_2732-1.jpg

[CliffS]

Ridetech'gascap

[96t/acj]

Very nice project..... Lovin evey bit of this build.....

[CliffS]

Small update, fighting with bondo and paint what turned out in a 10 feet paint job. At least worked out my idea and like it. Fesler tails are great, so are the gas cap and new bumper.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/IMG00142201110221745-1.jpg

[LeighP]

Looks pretty good to me.

[Moabdude]

Cliff, looks cool that blacked out rear.

I also like the Nitto's. I have a set for sale. They were just a little too big (285/35-18+ 235/40-18).

See you in Zandvoort 2012?!

[CliffS]

Thanks Bram,

That's the sizes I use, may take them from your hand next year for a nice PT price ;)
It's getting cold, let's see if I can start with the 4 link before the winter kicks in, and yes let's do Zandvoort next year.

[CruizinKev]

looks good! good work! :twothumbs

[CliffS]

small update; new seats, belts and sill plates

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/IMG_0511-1.jpg

[Lenie]

Cliff, that sure turned out nice.


Small update, fighting with bondo and paint what turned out in a 10 feet paint job. At least worked out my idea and like it. Fesler tails are great, so are the gas cap and new bumper.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/IMG00142201110221745-1.jpg

[Moabdude]

small update; new seats, belts and sill plates

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/IMG_0511-1.jpg

Cliff, new seats also? I thought you had Corbeau seats?

Just came back from SEMA 2011. Also went to JCG in Oxnard (Chris) Now I have lots of new idea's..........too bad my car is painted already.

[Martin71RS]

looking nice Cliff!

[CliffS]

I got Corbeau's but they can go now. Bought myself some Sparco Milano's with some better lateral support. Matching the new upholstered back seat.
Wauw Sema, must had a blast. Curious about your idea's.

[CliffS]

Thanks lenie, Martin.

[geberhard]

Cliff, any album with bigger pictures of the bird? Really like the stance!

Gui

[hoover]

Do you also have a pic of the gauges buddy? Nice bird, by the way.

[CliffS]

Thanks Hoover.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/IMG_0514-1.jpg

[Compaan-Designs]

2 pics of your Bird I made last year
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/vzpGT-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/Nvchk-1.jpg

Very nice car, man! Me and my dad are building a '69 Javelin. In a few years, we are present on this meeting too, haha.

[CliffS]

Thanks for the pics! Pretty rare car in our small country that Javelin, good luck wrenching!!!

[bimmen325]

Nice car, what mirrors are you using?

[CliffS]

Nice car, what mirrors are you using?
I have to check, mirrors are universal. No car type specific

[CliffS]

Hi Cliff, other than the black aluminum housing, what are the differences between the fesler tail lights and the stock tail lights? Been debating on buying a set if there are major differences. Thanks

Hey Lenie, sorry buddy, just saw your question.
Not much differences. The Fesler units feel more beefier, nice glass though. They seem to stick out a little more of the tail panel, or the old units were just shot.

[CliffS]

Been trying to work on the exhaust system. Coated Doug's headers and the Magnaflow kit from Frank.
Install of the headers was as easy as you can get. The engine didn't had to be lift at all or such. Ground clearance is optimum (old set up with Hooker gave only 3" clearance).

For all you Poncho guys with first gen Birds; there is a major Oil filter (housing) -to - header - clearance difference between round port and D-port Doug's headers. As also seen on Joe's thread ('67 Re-birth) on this board.

pics say more...

Headers installed with 110 dgrs filter housing:

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

Tried smaller diameter and shorter oil filters but no difference
I was able to track down a straight oil filter housing from a '64 engine (right):

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

By-pass valve removed an tapped for 3/8 plug

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

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

problem solved:

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

[67rstbkt]

Which filter did you go with? NAPA 1258? Also, I've been reading up on that bypass spring in the housing and am undecided on leaving it as is or doing what you did. What are you're thoughts on that? What swayed your decision to block it? I'm having a hard time finding a good reason to go either way, there's solid arguments for both

[CliffS]

Which filter did you go with? NAPA 1258? Also, I've been reading up on that bypass spring in the housing and am undecided on leaving it as is or doing what you did. What are you're thoughts on that? What swayed your decision to block it? I'm having a hard time finding a good reason to go either way, there's solid arguments for both

Ended up with the 1258 (bigger volume). Since the bypass spring is almost 50 years old and the housing (Kauffman) I've been using for the past couple of years doesn't has the bypass at all and that all oil passing the filter is actually filtered made the decission a lot easier. Not a lot to find about this and opnions differ. Couple of Poncho engines builders also advise to block the bypass.

[CliffS]

Filter done. Next the exhaust; stainless Magnaflow X-pipe. Ordered an extra set of 12" stainless collectors/reducers and had them expanded to exept 2.5"pipe. Angle of the collectors had to be altered because the headers are pretty tight to the floor and not centered in the transmission crossmember.

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

mock up and ready for welding

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/04/IMG_0228-1.jpg

[LeighP]

Nice work....theres also an oil filter mount kit that rotates the filter towards the rear...for use with the original Long Branch style Ram Air cast iron headers.

[CliffS]

It has been a busy week, welding and installing the G-link. looks good, drives nice (small test ride) but stance is far from what I wanted.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/IMG_0264-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/IMG_0262-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/IMG_0259-1.jpg

[WS6]

Are you going to be able to adjust the stance to suit your desires, Cliff? Glad to see you still making changes and updates to the car

[DaveD]

Thanks for the kudos guys!
Small update on the interior. I replaced the billet steering wheel for a Momo unit with a Poncho touch.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/07/Digitalefotos052-1.jpg

Where did you find the poncho horn button for the momo wheel?

[CliffS]

Are you going to be able to adjust the stance to suit your desires, Cliff? Glad to see you still making changes and updates to the car

Hey Trey. A lot has been discussed on the web about the G-link. Chris Alston stepped up and did a Article about the 4 link. Chassisworks has two lowering kits available now (5/8 - 11/4). Got one on order now.

[CliffS]

Where did you find the poncho horn button for the momo wheel?

Dave, I took a GM horn button (source Summit or Classic Ind) and exchanged the innerparts.

[Martin71RS]

looking good Cliff! if you are quick you might still be able to register for the fast car festival June 17th.... just try 1 track session there....it is cheap, close to home and a nice way to test your Bird.
There is one session with US cars and a lot of our group are going. (read about it here http://www.forum.mikes-amp.nl/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=9&func=view&catid=5&id=3056 )

Martin

[CliffS]

looking good Cliff! if you are quick you might still be able to register for the fast car festival June 17th.... just try 1 track session there....it is cheap, close to home and a nice way to test your Bird.
There is one session with US cars and a lot of our group are going. (read about it here http://www.forum.mikes-amp.nl/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=9&func=view&catid=5&id=3056 )

Martin


Thanks for the heads up. have to check, Next two months are very busy , busy..

[CliffS]

Update, received the lowering kit from Alston. The kits contains 4 aluminum blocks and some longer U-bolts. The stance is know appox where it was when it sat on leaf springs. Maybe I have to drop the front some more. let me know what you think.

I know you guys like pics:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/IMG_0350-2.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/IMG_0351-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/IMG_0354-1.jpg

[makoshark]

Car actually looks good. The rear seems to match the front quite well. At the height it's at now, it would probably be more streetable. Have you ever figured out what your going to do on the front?

[Ishmael]

Looks fine to me.

[LeighP]

Stance looks nice.....how do the lowering blocks go with keeping the lower radius arm/shock mount clear of the scrub line across the bottom of the wheels...hate to see parts start hitting the ground when a tyre loses pressure....ouch!

[68firebird]

I love this firebird, if I can only get mine to look similar to this someday! just need a lot more cash, LOL.
Great Job

[CliffS]

Car actually looks good. The rear seems to match the front quite well. At the height it's at now, it would probably be more streetable. Have you ever figured out what your going to do on the front?

It is streetable for sure, lots of traffic bumps overhere.
The front is after all the feetback (esp from you) a no-brainer, it will be the Chicane kit in the near future.
Prepping the car for a big day coming soon ;)

[CliffS]

Stance looks nice.....how do the lowering blocks go with keeping the lower radius arm/shock mount clear of the scrub line across the bottom of the wheels...hate to see parts start hitting the ground when a tyre loses pressure....ouch!

It's close Leigh, very close to the pavement but still doable. Did some testing with bumpy roads and putholes and all seems to be fine. I will take some pics from the new situation with the wheels on and shock mount clearance.

[CliffS]

I love this firebird, if I can only get mine to look similar to this someday! just need a lot more cash, LOL.
Great Job

Thanks Rene.

[CliffS]

Another item I addressed. We're always want to go faster, corner and stop on a dime. What if I want to take my youngest with me for a ride?
I have this PT (lol) shock tower brace in the trunk. I asked our masterwelder to weld an eyelet to it (thanks Erik). This allows me to hook an anchorage strap from the child car seat to it.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/IMG00287201206061937-1.jpg

[LeighP]

:) good choice....hate seeing kids floating around unrestrained.

[Lenie]

Stance and upgrades, very nice, I'm jealous. I can't wait until I'm able to put the car on the road. Nice work!

[CliffS]

:) good choice....hate seeing kids floating around unrestrained.

With my oldest kids I had this nasty situations with restraints floating around in my daily driver. Safety first also in our beloved vintage cars.

Just shot this recently with my phone:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/BW-1.jpg

Just love black and white ;)

[CliffS]

Stance and upgrades, very nice, I'm jealous. I can't wait until I'm able to put the car on the road. Nice work!

thanks Lenie, really curious about your end product.
Now I am where I want to be suspension-wise (the Chicane kit on my wish list) I will have to address to the paint and body work in the upcoming 1-2 years.

[CliffS]

Stance looks nice.....how do the lowering blocks go with keeping the lower radius arm/shock mount clear of the scrub line across the bottom of the wheels...hate to see parts start hitting the ground when a tyre loses pressure....ouch!

Made some pics with the wheels on, clearance is not too much but driveable

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/IMG_0396-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/IMG_0395-1.jpg

[CliffS]

Had some small things on my list, but all add up can take a whole day.....

I installed the lowering kit from Alston and noticed that the end links of the rear sway bar hit the diff. The links have three install options on the bar so I shifted one position up.
With leafs you have staggered shocks so are the rear calipers. Mostly for looks I reclocked the Wilwood caliper on the rear driver side so all calipers are facing rearwards. Rerouted the brake line. No idea if it will be noticable in stopping ability.
Completed and adjusted the e-brakes.
I had to unbolt the exhaust to add the gaskets on the headers and retorqued all clambs since the exhaust is not fully welded (yet). Made some downpipes but the local hardware store had only one clamb in stock so the other side will be mounted soon.
Fixed the interior lightning and horns.
This is how she sits now:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/IMG_0394-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/IMG_0397-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/IMG_0398-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/IMG_0399-1.jpg

[Royall Cars]

mooi om te zien, nog een nederlander hier op het forum...

mooie pontiac, ziet er goed uit !!!

[six8fbird]

Beautiful 68 Poncho you have sir. From one Firebird owner to another, hats off! I've been imagining your exact dash setup for my bird. Thanks for answering a couple of questions I had.

[neki67]

Ffies die uitlaat aflassen en dan morgen:


looking good Cliff! if you are quick you might still be able to register for the fast car festival June 17th.... just try 1 track session there....it is cheap, close to home and a nice way to test your Bird.
There is one session with US cars and a lot of our group are going. (read about it here http://www.forum.mikes-amp.nl/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=9&func=view&catid=5&id=3056 )

Martin

Zie je daar! :naughty:

[LeighP]

Nice...real nice!

[CliffS]

"mooi om te zien, nog een nederlander hier op het forum...

mooie pontiac, ziet er goed uit !!! "





More then a couple of Dutchies around here, Welcome.

[CliffS]

Beautiful 68 Poncho you have sir. From one Firebird owner to another, hats off! I've been imagining your exact dash setup for my bird. Thanks for answering a couple of questions I had.

Thanks! Any more Questions, let me know. That's what we are here for.

[CliffS]

Ffies die uitlaat aflassen en dan morgen:



Zie je daar! :naughty:


Hey Rene,

I wish I could join the festival.
Prepping the Bird for another occasion. Ask Martin 2morrow. Have fun!!

[Moabdude]

Cliff, very nice!
I also love your wheels. Brushed rims with dark center. Very cool.

Lots of suspension upgrades there. Looks ready for the auto cross!




Prepping the Bird for another occasion. Ask Martin 2morrow. Have fun!!

Now I am curious!

[CliffS]

Cliff, very nice!
I also love your wheels. Brushed rims with dark center. Very cool.

Lots of suspension upgrades there. Looks ready for the auto cross!





Now I am curious!

Thanks Bram, hope to see your car in person this season (KC?).
No Auto- X for you this year?

[Moabdude]

Thanks Bram, hope to see your car in person this season (KC?).
No Auto- X for you this year?

When the weather is good I'll be at both SNC on Saturday and KC on Sunday.
No auto-x I think.......I first want to get to know my car.

Car is at AJ's already for a couple of weeks to do some touch ups. I screwed up some paint during assembly the passed 3 years.......

Still curious.........

[Martin71RS]

Bram, the event has to do with a circular gold part........

driving at the Zandvoort track was great again...I hope to see you both there next year (and that is with your cars and on the track!!)

[neki67]

driving at the Zandvoort track was great again...I hope to see you both there next year (and that is with your cars and on the track!!)

Posers, Martin, just chicken posers!!!



:naughty: :naughty: :naughty: :naughty:

[CliffS]

hahah poser 4 sure, got a legitimate excuse ;)

[CliffS]

Long over due post. Been busy with private/family stuff, good and bad.
Just finished a mod I wanted to do long time. Building my own hid head lamps with halo's:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/image_zpsb04bd126-1.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/cliffcamaro/media/image_zpsb04bd126.jpg.html)

Upcoming week we will be busy with moving house but after that I will change the front suspension and hopefully redo the entire fuel system.

[Ishmael]

That is awesome. I like how the ring for the highs are smaller than the ring for the lows. Bad ass.

[Lenie]

Cliff, now that is cool!

[FireBeater]

This super Sweet! I like this look so much. I would like to know how you made these, any pictures? I have see other halo lights which I like but none are projector HID with a halo.

Very, very cool.


Long over due post. Been busy with private/family stuff, good and bad.
Just finished a mod I wanted to do long time. Building my own hid head lamps with halo's:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/image_zpsb04bd126-1.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/cliffcamaro/media/image_zpsb04bd126.jpg.html)

Upcoming week we will be busy with moving house but after that I will change the front suspension and hopefully redo the entire fuel system.

[CliffS]

That is awesome. I like how the ring for the highs are smaller than the ring for the lows. Bad ass.

Thanks Scott,
I only used projectors in the outer units, they have high and low beams. The inner units only have the ring. They are hooked up with the indicators in the valance so they also flash.

[CliffS]

This super Sweet! I like this look so much. I would like to know how you made these, any pictures? I have see other halo lights which I like but none are projector HID with a halo.

Very, very cool.

Thanks. It' really an in-house project. I used the lady' oven and backed the head light units to get the lens of using a sharp blade and a srew driver. I cut off part of the back to mount the shroud and using epoxy to fix. Sand and spray, gasket maker and glue for the rings, feed the wires through and put back the lenses. Also the brackets have to be widend to make it fit.
Some pics:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/image_zpsd88b7f84-1.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/cliffcamaro/media/image_zpsd88b7f84.jpg.html)

[Moabdude]

Very cool!
Can you make me a set ;-)

[CliffS]

Very cool!
Can you make me a set ;-)

I"ll start my own small business ;)

[CliffS]

Engine was sitting on solid mounts and tranyy on poly, nice and thight. But it also causes a drop of the mill and a little vibration. Changed the motor mounts to original rubber again and forgot rule of thumb that rubber and poly don't go together. Transmission didn't like it at all.
Now try to find poly motor mounts for a Pontiac. Butler Performance came out with their own and just arrived yesterday.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/cliffcamaro/media/8c58b2c4-cb03-4054-b05b-e1b781d9342d_zps6d6e52c0.jpg.html)