'72 Nova project

[mikem]

My project is well underway and I thought it was time I got some pictures up. The ultimate plan is to have a 6.0 liter LQ-9 with a t-56. I have the LQ-9 but not the 6 speed yet. The suspension is this years project. I removed the front with plans to put SPC adjustable uppers, Hotrods to Hell tubular lowers with Fatman Fab. tall spindles. As the front end came apart I saw that the body bushing were a mess and the frame was welded by a blind man at the factory. So I ended up pulling the motor and the whole front subframe. I had all the factory welds redone, the frame rails are welded from one end to the other and the support between the crossmembers is boxed. I am going to put it back together with DSE solid body bushings but first I need to get it stripped and painted.

I will be running Wilwood 12.2" brakes on all 4 corners and the rear suspension is loose and ready to be pulled to make room for the Hotrods to Hell truck arm set-up. I am still trying to decide on a wheel but right now I like the look of the Boze Pro-touring with a charcoal face and the brushed satin rim.

The current 355 will be reinstalled with the Richmond gear 5 speed until the 6.0 liter and T-56 are ready.

Here are some pics of the subframe and suspension components.

[zman1969]

nice start and plans so far , what are doing for rolling stock and body? keep us updated :geek:

[69Nova]

Awsome! How bout a picture of the car itself?

[Steve68]

more Pics,

[mikem]

After a crappy winter with more snow than I want to see again, things are finally coming together. The frame was stripped and painted and I started getting all my parts. I am still waiting on the Wilwood brake kit but that will hopefully show up soon.

The frame had all the joints welded and I used a 2 part epoxy primer. The lower arms are from Hotrods to Hell. They are solid, I am impressed with the workmanship on these, so I hope they perform well. The upper arms are from SPC and are completely adjustable. The pics are obviously mock ups and the springs are not installed.

The spindles are Fatman 2" drop. I hope the steering arms work. I got these prior to becoming a member here and the stock spindles are gone. If I had it to do over I would probably not have these.

The steering box is a 12.7:1 from Unisteer. It is the 600 series box and I am thrilled with how much smaller it is.

All the steering components are Moog and the adjuster sleeves are from DSE.

I have new 1/2 height body bushings from DSE and will hopefully be reuniting the frame and body as soon as possible.

Brakes are coming from Frank at Prodigy. 6 piston front and 4 piston rear, both on 12.2 inch rotors.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/DSC_0175-1.jpg
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[MrQuick]

great looking body. nice start. Looking forward to more pictures.

[Part Time]

Love it !!

[mikem]

Finally some more updates. I have been moving and trying to learn a new job so it has been slow going. Combine that with a brake package that is still not in Wilwood's catalog and you can see how easy it is to get stalled. Just a couple quick pics of the new brakes. I should get the front brakes installed later this week or early next week.

If my tires show up the car will finally be on its own feet again. I can't wait. It has only been about 9 months now since it came apart.

Without further babbling here are the pics.
Front hub and rotor

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/06/002-1.jpg

Rear rotor

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/06/006-2.jpg

Front with caliper

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/06/007-1.jpg

Both front and back

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/06/005-1.jpg

Thanks to Frank from Prodigy Customs for putting up with my constant phone calls about where these brakes were. If you couldn't tell I was a bit excited.

More Pics when they are mounted.

[mikem]

Th project has taken a backseat to some other time consuming things this year. I moved, am attempting to sell my house and got married. So far I am happy I still find any time to work on this.

The Hotrods to Hell rear is finally in and while I still have to finish some of the smaller welding it is close to done. The mini-tubs are in and I just need to finish a few things there as well.

The new axles and c-clip eliminators are supposed to come in today or early next week. Once the axles are here I can finish the rearend and get the Wilwood brakes mounted.

I don't have pictures of the wheels and tires but the backs are 285/40 17s and the fronts are 245/45 17s. Both are Nitto 555s and they are mounted on Crager Soft 8s. I am hoping for a NASCARish look. I really wanted something in a billet but just can't swing the cost now. These wheels were less than $250 for all 4 but they are HEAVY!

I have not been completely thrilled with the Hotrods to Hell rear. The idea is kind of cool but the instructions weren't exactly crystal clear and the measurements didn't always come out like they said they would in the instructions. All in all it will come down to how it drives and handles so I am still hopeful.

The mini-tubs were great but I wish they were complete tubs. The back lower portion of mine had rust holes and I removed it. Now I have to find a way to cap the area that exposed. Not a huge deal but for as nice as they are it would great to just replace it all.

As for what is next.

The original hope was to have it rolling this fall.... now that snow is here and salt has been poured on the roads that will not happen.

I am working on getting the LQ-9 ready for the spring. I am going to go with the Richmond 5 speed behind it. Less things to change and it will allow me to retain the current gears and posi in the rear.

The interior will be getting new front seats (the old bench was shot and it was a bench) and new upholstery on the rear. Not sure what seats to use so suggestions are welcome.

On to what everyone wants to see... pictures.

Here you can see the floor pans cut out and the cross member in place. The cross member was not wide enough to reach the rockers and we had to make spacers on each side. This also allowed us to make sure it was centered too.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/DSCF0877-1.jpg

This one is not the clearest but it is the end of the cross member with the spacer welded in place.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/DSCF0880-1.jpg

This is the modified gusset that was directly in front of the old leaf spring mount. It has been strengthened and a support runs from there to the cross member.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/DSCF0888-1.jpg

This photo shows the entire support as it runs across the new floor. The instructions did not call for it but the new floor was completely welded to the support. It also serves to tie the front of the rear subframe to the back of the front subframe.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/DSCF0900-1.jpg

Here the frame is prepared for the minitub. You can see the notched frame and the other fill panel.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/DSCF0960-1.jpg

Here is the drivers side tub installed.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/DSCF0972-1.jpg

One from the inside of the trunk.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/DSCF0973-1.jpg

Here you can see the rear suspension installed. The panhard bar was 3 inches too long and needed to be shortened but it is in and ready for the axles. It will be in need of some paint too...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/DSCF0980-1.jpg

Here you can see the cross supports for both the shocks and the panhard bar. You can also see the extra bracing between the trunk floor and frame for the panhard bar mount.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/DSCF0981-1.jpg

Last one is of the panhard bar gusset. The fill panel it welds too was a bit too short so we will probably extend it back to completely support the gusset.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/DSCF0979-1.jpg

I will try to keep updates coming as the Power Tour will be here before you know it. Seeing as it is starting less than 1 hour away I have no excuse in missing it.

[WILWAXU]

Nice looking project!

[70TWO NOVA]

Looking good, dig the color on the car!

[mikem]

The rear suspension is in and the floors are done. The brakes and axles are in. I have seats on the way so I can fabricate some brackets and get those mounted. Then it will be on to painting, sealing and Dynomatting the interior.

I am really digging the look of the wheels and tire combo. Granted it is still on the lift and not sitting at ride height, I am still digging it. The wheels are Crager Soft 8's in 17X8 in the front and 17X9 in the rear. The tires are Nitto 555s in 245/40 17 in the front and 285/45 17s in the rear.

I still have to mount the master cylinder and run all my brake lines and then I can start mapping out the headache that will be installing the LS style motor.

Here are some pictures of the car with the wheels and tires on.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/DSCF1012-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/DSCF1013-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/DSCF1018-1.jpg

[stealth71]

Looking good. I just put Soft 8's on my Chevelle.

[JJSmitches]

I just wanted to double check your tire size in the rear. You are running a 285/45/17? Where did you pick those up? I checked Tirerack, discount tire direct, and Summit with no luck.

Thanks!

[ebncrdr]

Very cool...looking forward to seeing the rest of your progress:twothumbs

[mikem]

I messed up on the rear tire size. It is a 285/40 17.... not a 45. I was typing in a hurry before and didn't proofread it. I picked them up on Summit last summer but they were backordered for months.

[JJSmitches]

Thanks for double checking.

I forgot to mention earlier, nice updates!

[icebird84]

nice Nova , good job

[1971CHEVELLE]

This car is going to be awesome:) I like the color

:twothumbs Good work

[BossaNova]

Man, what you've done is v. impressive. That is a cool looking car.

Look forward to seeing that new engine going in.

[maldo]

nice love those body styles

[perple76]

Boy did your pictures bring back some memories. I installed a HRTH Truckarm set-up in my 77 Nova last winter. Our cars are basically the same (structurally) from the firewall back, so my guess is our experiences are also going to be similar.

I'm sorry to hear you had some installation issues. Overall I was relatively impressed with the kit, but having a 4th Gen Nova I'm impressed when ANYTHING from the aftermarket that works on my car. I think I had to call them one time for support, and that had to do with the harp plate. Everything else on my install followed the instructions to the letter, including measurements.

I was able to get about 2 weeks worth of road time on the Nova this June before I dismantled it for paint. I got to push the suspension pretty hard, and I have to say I was very pleased with the results - it's predictable in the corners, hooks up and launches hard and solid, and has what I consider reasonable street manners. It doesn't squeak and rattle like some 3/4 link set-ups, and the adjustable ride height is just pure gravy for me. Having installed the suspension and gotten some real-world driving done with it, I would not go back and do it different. I would call myself a satisfied customer.

With the similarity of our cars, I would hope that you find the same success with your car when its done. Of all the mods I have made to my car (tubular A-arms, six speed, big brakes, etc.) I think the rear suspension is my favorite.

Good luck with the rest of your project. Car looks good.

J

[mikem]

The car finally made it back home. I am quite happy to see it back in the garage. Now the fun journey of getting it back on the road begins.

After getting it back together with all the HTH suspension, the C-clip eliminator kit, and the Wilwood brakes I realized the track width was too wide. We ended up taking 1.75 inches out of each side of the axle tube to get some clearance. The tires have about 2" between the sidewall and the fender lip now. It doesn't look quite as stuffed but it gives me a bit more room to play with. These wheels are 17x9 with 5" backspacing.

The front is going to have to come apart to determine how much needs to be cut off the springs to get the desired ride height and I have to add some spacers to move my steering arms away from the sidewall.


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[mikem]

Crappy week with the motor. I was hoping to drop the old small block back in. It is a 355 with Trick Flow heads, a hydr. roller cam and Edlebrock Pro-flow (pictured above). Only problem was that as we got it out of the engine bay last year the cheap chain that came with the engine puller snapped. The motor dropped about 2 feet. The brunt of the hit seemed to be on the oil pan and the scatter shield. I had to replace the pan and planned to check the internals while the bottom was opened up. I wanted to check the endplay on the crank and run a dial indicator on the end.

I drained the oil and dropped the pan. The car has less than 10,000 miles in this configuration and has always run Mobil 1. There was a sludge in the bottom of the pan and there was obvious green antifreeze. I started to feel sick.

I was unable to get anything else apart until yesterday. I pulled the 1-7 bank valve cover. The rockers were covered in a slime and there was a chocolate milk looking substance next to the # 3 Intake valve spring. I pulled the other valve cover and had no signs of antifreeze. When I pulled the intake I could see a straight line above the lifters for # 3 and for #5 that had a greyish slime that then pooled between the lifters. The lifters for #3 and 5 were covered in the same slime as the rockers had been covered in.

The crank also seems to have a lot more endplay than when it was assembled. I haven't had been able to pull the caps to look at the bearings but my guess is the watered down oil burned the bearings.



Crappy day..... I have the LQ4 and now have to work at getting all the needed items for that transplant.

I will post more tomorrow.

[SatisTraction]

sorry to hear about the engine.

what kind of "spacers" do you plan to run to clear the front tires?

[mikem]

I haven't figured that out yet. Fatman Fab states I can space the steering arm out slightly with washers but it can't be too thick. It sounded like I can gain 1/4" that way. I have to measure my clearance to the fender lip but since it isn't sitting at the final ride height I can't quite do that yet.

It looks like the tie rod is hitting the tire in the picture but in reality it clears by a very narrow margin. Not enough that I would ever drive it but better than starting with a rub.

On the better side of things. I got my dash put mostly fitted and mocked up. I still need to do some final fitting so it isn't completely in but here are some photos. I got a blank Covan's piece and cut it for a 5" tach and speedo and 2 1/16" small gauges. The water temp and the oil are both full sweep while the voltmeter and gas are partial sweep gauges. Covan's doesn't offer a 5" dash for Nova's and they told me over the phone that it wouldn't fit. I measured it out and thought they were wrong. I was right.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/02/DSCF1113-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/02/DSCF1116-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/02/DSCF1114-1.jpg

[cantvalve16]

Sorry about your engine, man. At least you should be able to part it out and recoup some of your LS transplant money.

[Roddin28]

nice chassiswork you've done!!
looks good

[mikem]

Grabbed a few pics today while I was working on the car. I got brake lines run on the rear and started working out seat bracket issues. I also figured out how the E-brake set up will probably work but I still have to make some brackets and route the cables.

Here are some of the 4 piston rear calipers.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/02/DSCF1161-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/02/DSCF1163-1.jpg

and I got some close-ups of the cracks on the SBC.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/02/DSCF1159-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/02/DSCF1157-1.jpg

[Nessumsar]

Bummer on the engine!

I will be watching this closely, I am planning on doing a LS and 6-speed in my '72. Also glad you put some Soft-8s on, thinking of ditching my KMCs for those.

Why did you ditch the leafs for your 2-link?

[mikem]

I ditched the leaf springs for the HTH Truckarm set up because I had talked to a couple people running it. It sounded like an upgrade and made sense to me. I started this project long before discovering this forum and a number of the parts were ordered then. There are a number of other set-ups that can probably out perform the Truckarm rear but, even without driving it, I still think it is better than the leaf springs. It gave me a lot more room for tire, it gives me adjustable ride height and ties the front and rear subframes together.

To do it over I would probably look at the Lateral Dynamics 3 link or the DSE Quad link. I am happy with the install on the HTH set-up but it does limit my exhaust options.

Good luck with your build. Keep us updated.

[cityofthesouth]

That thing is gonna look tough I think. Bad deal with the engine, maybe you can still hawk some of the parts?

[tones2SS]

Nice looking project.
The body looks to be in good shape. Sorry to hear about the engine and hopefully some good can come out of it.
Those Nitto's look awesome under there.
Keep us posted.

[mikem]

Here are some updates. I have been learning to speak the language of the LSx.... like learning a completely new language. They are also expensive. Every aftermarket part is twice as much as small block things. Trying to do it on a budget and starting with just the long block (plus intake) puts me at a loss. I have spent countless hours on the phone and ebay trying to gather things to make this work. LS1 forum is a lifesaver. Everything has been done before and someone will get you an answer.

I am slowly gathering items. Tonight I picked up my knock sensors and the MAP sensor. I am still trying to determine if I am going DBW or cable throttle. I don't have a PCM or throttle body yet so either is a possibility.

I did find that with the right motor mount adaptors I will be able to run the truck intake. It may be ugly as sin but I am working on cleaning it up and it produces the better power than factory LS1 intakes.

I picked up an Autokraft oil pan and adaptor plates. They should mount the motor lower than the BRP style. The oil pan is very nice, it has all 4 corner baffled, a oil filter adaptor and its own pick-up for under $400. S&P offers a nice modded F body pan but without a trade-in they want $500. They also won't take truck pans as trade-in's even thought they sell those too.

I am set to order my accessory drive but waiting for last months credit card to clear. I am going with the Kwik Performance set up. It is the best for my budget, runs on the truck water pump and the truck crank pulley.

Here are some pics of the new oil pan and mounts. I should have more this weekend. If the weather cooperates I am going to test fit the engine.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/DSCF1171-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/lsxmounts2-1.jpg

[novanutcase]

That thing is gonna handle REAL nice!

John

[NvrDun71]

Good looking build, I just purchased a low mileage LQ9 and am doing a swap in an 05' Sierra. If you need any parts (complete truck intake, TB, PCM, accy's, wiring harness, etc...) I have it all in great shape

[mikem]

NvrDun,

I will keep you in mind. Is your throttle body cable or DBW. I have a DBW but am not sure if I want to go that route. As I move along I will PM you if I need something.

[NvrDun71]

NvrDun,

I will keep you in mind. Is your throttle body cable or DBW. I have a DBW but am not sure if I want to go that route. As I move along I will PM you if I need something.

Cool man, just figured I would throw it out there...... piecing together parts for these motors does get expensive fast. Actually have two like new throttle bodies, but they are both DBW

[mikem]

We finally got a test fit of the motor done. Not everything went according to plan. The engine came down and it was apparent something was not lining up between the motor mounts on the frame and the mounts from Autokraft. We got the bolt in on the drivers side and the mount on the passenger side was off. It looked like the one of the mounts was too short (either the mount on the frame or block). As we continued to set it down to see if it would come closer the oil pan came down on the cross member. We lifted it back up and put the bolt just through the mount on the engine. It sat on top of the frame mount then and allowed me to take some measurements. We also test fitted the hood and it should clear even though the motor was not exactly in its position.

I called Autokraft on last Monday and explained the problem. They stated they had run into this only a few times as GM apparently used a number of different frame mounts in F-bodies and X-bodies. He told me to look at the frame mounts and try to replace them with a taller version. I looked around online and the original replacement everyone sells is nowhere close to what I have. My original mount on the drivers side measures 1.5" from the frame to the center of the hole. The original replacement measures 2 1/16". That is a 9/16" difference. I can't even find anyone that lists what I have as an option. I have the new mount in and hopefully can drop the motor in for another test this week.

Meanwhile I am working on brakes and setting up the master cylinder.

Here are some pics of the motor in the bay. You can kind of see the beginnings of me smoothing out the intake some. I have cut off most of the taller plastic fins and plan to smooth them down even more before it is up and running.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/DSCF1195-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/DSCF1198-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/DSCF1193-1.jpg
Here you can see the drivers side mount is connected and in the next picture you can see how I had to set up the passenger side to get it to not ride on the oil pan. Hopefully the new frame mount will correct this
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/DSCF1191-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/DSCF1192-1.jpg

[mikem]

I got a new driver's side frame stand for the motor. The one the car came with was 9/16" shorter than this replacement. The motor now sits in the car and we were able to put the motor mount bolts in.

I also got the front calipers on and started working on brake lines. I also have the master cylinder mounted and connected to the pedal. It was a power brake car originally but the pedal came with a hole for manual brakes as well. I just moved the clevis up to the higher hole and adjusted the brake light switch to hit the pedal. I have almost 1.5" of travel at the master cylinder and it hits the floor just before bottoming in the master.

I have been working on smoothing off the truck intake and it is coming along nicely. I need to start working with a small file and sandpaper now as almost all the rough cutting is done.

Here are some shots I took.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/DSCF1300-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/DSCF1302-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/03/DSCF1306-1.jpg

[wickedred]

Re you keeping the Truck intake or are you planning to swap it for a LS6 intake?

[mikem]

I am keeping the truck intake. They have longer runners and a couple comparisons have been done that put them within a couple horsepower of a stock LS6 and higher than the stock LS1.

With the Autokraft mounts, it will fit under the stock hood. It also allows me to run the stock LQ4 waterpump and save the extra cost of replacing both the intake and the waterpump.

[mikem]

I did a test fit with the motor and new headers last night.

I went with the Edelbrock LS conversion headers. So far I am impressed. They came with all the mounting hardware, have nice heavy flanges and tubes and they fit the car. I am not using Edelbrock's mounting brackets so I wasn't sure they would clear but they did. They gave over 1/2" of clearance around the steering box. They hang down slightly lower than the subframe but nowhere near what my SBC headers hung down. They only hang a little bit lower than the oil pan and the bellhousing.

My only disappointment with them is the O2 bungs did not come attached. I now have to take them and have a hole cut in the coating to weld the bungs on. It would be nice if Edelbrock offered them with or without from the factory.

Here are some pics
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/04/DSCF1313-1.jpg

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[Kenova]

.... I have to add some spacers to move my steering arms away from the sidewall.



https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/DSCF1097-1.jpg


How much back spacing do you have on your front wheels? They are 17" x 8" , right?

Ken

[mikem]

They are 17X8 with 4.5" of backspacing. That is the only backspacing offered in the 17X8 Soft 8s.

[98ssnova]

What about running a 235 front tire might give some better clearence? or swith your steering arms I htink they make three diffrent lenghts for x-bodys

[ssmike]

Great work. I have a 72 also and want to start a PT build......Can you give me a $$$ estimate for your suspension, rear end, brakes, etc investment?

[mikem]

It has been a while since I posted but here are some updates.

The LQ4 is in with a hydraulic throwout bearing from Mcleod. The clutch master and adaptor block are from Keisler. The brakes are done just waiting for someone to help me bleed them... hopefully tomorrow.

The motor is in I and I am pretty much down to hooking up the wiring and sorting out the power steering reservoir/lines and the fuel system. I have the Walbro pump and Corvette FPR so it is a matter of some connections and running the lines.

The ride height is exactly what I wanted. The car is still in the garage so I can't get a good side shot yet but hopefully next week.

Not too much time before the Power Tour but I am hoping it will still get done.

Here are some pics.

Clutch master
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSCF1440-1.jpg

Finished dash
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSCF1427-1.jpg

3/4 angle
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSCF1416-1.jpg

Fans
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSCF1411-1.jpg

Alt/Power steering bracket
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSCF1433-1.jpg

[vince72]

great job man.
love that gn in the background
vince

[BLWN1]

Nice ass car, why the wheel choice? I have a stock ls1 intake with TB, rails and inj, if you change your mind.

[NvrDun71]

Lookin Good Man, what radiator and fan setup did you go with? Looks like it fits well

[Motown 454]

The dash looks great . Those headers fit good too. Nice work

[mikem]

I went with the Soft 8's because I had to cut costs somewhere. They give it a mean look but were only like $65 a wheel. I would love a nice set of billet wheels but these were quick and easy to throw on until I recover from all the LS conversion costs.

I am going to stick with the truck intake for now. Some think it is ugly but I kind of like the look. It will get replaced when I upgrade the heads, cam and need a bigger throttle body but that is at least a year off.

The radiator is a Be Cool that was in with my SBC. I bought it about 10 years ago as a factory replacement. The fans are sold as Be Cool fans but were about 1.5" too wide. I had to notch the corners around the inlet and outlets on the radiator. I also had to trim the edges to get it to sit flat on the tanks. It worked out great. Now I just have to run the wiring and relays to power the set-up.

[Draginutz]

looks like a mean nova. Sorry about your engine troubles but I bet when all is said and done you will like the LS motor. BTW I dig the soft 8s.

[mikem]

Here are some photos I grabbed today. We got the brakes bled today and I hope to get the clutch done this week.

I will be sorting out the fan relays and the alternator and hopefully can get it started before next weekend.

Photos.. first time it has been outside in a long time.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSCF1449-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSCF1453-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSCF1450-1.jpg

[mikem]

Quick update on the Nova.... it is in pieces. The day after the last photos were taken I attempted to put the tranny crossmember in. It would not fit between the floor and the frame..... I knew 1/2 height body bushings can cause problems but this was unexpected. So there I was laying on my back wondering where I went wrong and it hit me like a hammer. The genius that installed my HTH rear suspension f'ed up. The rear portion of the front subframe had both portions of the body bushing under the frame. Thats right there was no body bushing on the rear of the frame (the front sets of bushings were in however)!!
:banghead:

Here is a picture
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/DSCF1508-1.jpg

I know you are thinking. "How did he not see this immediately?" When I took the car to the shop the crossmember was in with the bearings in the correct spot. I never even looked at this because I didn't know how someone would mess it up when it came to them assembled.

The cross member wouldn't fit because the frame was tight to the floor. I figured out how to modify the crossmember but decided before changing anything I should figure out what else wouldn't work. I put the drive shaft in and wouldn't you know it, it didn't work either. With the tranny on a jack and pushed up to the floor the drive shaft had 1/8" clearance between the side and the crossmember.

I was upset to say the least. I found a different person to fix the work, still in an effort to get the car going this summer. The crossmember was cut out, the bushings installed correctly and the crossmember welded back in.

So the car is back in the garage and while discouraged I pushed forward. I filled the rear with fluid on Saturday.... it started pouring out the passenger side. I started doing research. The ******* doing the original work talked me into c-clip eliminators. The problem is he did not tell me these don't work for crap on cars doing anything besides straight line. Strange makes a circle track Temkin style bearing but this is not what he used. I spoke at length when I first took the car there about the intended use being ROAD RACE and not 1/4 mile. When he talked about c-clip eliminator I asked if the Wilwood brake kit would work and he said "It won't be a problem."

I am now trying to figure out a fix that does not include replacing the entire axle housing. Strange says the Temkin style c-clip eliminator will bolt up the my axle housing with there axles. The problem with that is Wilwood says the brake kit I have will not work....

So as of now I am draining the axle (so I don't have everything covered in 80-90 weight) and doing more research.

To anyone in the Madison area stay away from MOEN FABRICATIONS at all costs. In the last 6 months (all after my car was there) they have had more than $14,000 in judgements awarded against them. I have had nothing but issues since taking my car there. They attempted repeatedly to "reengineer" every product given to them and nothing was done in a timely fashion. At first I thought it was taking forever because they were insuring everything was perfect. Now I know it was because they had no clue what they were doing.

I sought them out originally because I don't weld and have never set up a rearend. Now I am a year behind the original timeline and having to basically learn everything I was trying to bypass in the beginning.

[1badchevelle]

have you considered using a ls2 intake and porting it? THey sellover at ls1tech for $175-300 and are supposed to be a 5-15 hp gain over a stock fast 90

[Motown 454]

mikem I'm sorry to hear about your problem with the work they did for you . It sucks when you count on smeone for their talents and this happens . Good luck with the fix I hope it works out for you.
Wayne

[novanutcase]

Blows to hear that but just keep pressing forward. The moment you fire it up it'll all be worth it!!!

John

[Steve68]

Sit back take a breather, then start again, you should see my mess,

[orbit]

That is ****. I feel for you on this cause you're Nova is sweet as hell. Color and all!

Just remember, you already have the sweet car, majority of the things done wont have to be pulled and reworked.

Keep us posted when you have this baby in motion again!

[jackfrost]

just when you think something is idiot-proof, nature provides better idiots.

[John Wright]

Sorry to hear about the fabrication problems, but I like your wheels. But then I am kinda partial to those....LOL(that is the same wheel that is on my car)

[ss7lamar]

Great job. Nice Pics. My son Mike will probabley talk to you about our project. ss7 lamar

[71SlammedCam]

It has been a while since I posted but here are some updates.

The LQ4 is in with a hydraulic throwout bearing from Mcleod. The clutch master and adaptor block are from Keisler. The brakes are done just waiting for someone to help me bleed them... hopefully tomorrow.

The motor is in I and I am pretty much down to hooking up the wiring and sorting out the power steering reservoir/lines and the fuel system. I have the Walbro pump and Corvette FPR so it is a matter of some connections and running the lines.

The ride height is exactly what I wanted. The car is still in the garage so I can't get a good side shot yet but hopefully next week.

Not too much time before the Power Tour but I am hoping it will still get done.

Here are some pics.

Clutch master
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSCF1440-1.jpg

Finished dash
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSCF1427-1.jpg

3/4 angle
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSCF1416-1.jpg

Fans
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSCF1411-1.jpg

Alt/Power steering bracket
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSCF1433-1.jpg

I may have read past it, but whose alt. and p/s bracket is that?

[70Nova4dr]

Where in Wiscinsin are you from? I'm from Green Bay and i have a 70 Nova, but it's a 4 door.

[mikem]

I'm down towards Madison. Now that the snow is gone I hope to finish this up in the next month and actually get to drive it this summer. The Power Tour is rapidly approaching and I want to take it for the first 3 days.

[mikem]

The Power steering bracket is from Kwik Performance. They will tell you exactly what belt to run with the different pulley sizes and brackets too.

[70Nova4dr]

I'm trying to talk my friend into doing the Power Tour this year, would be a first for both of us, We would take his Mustang Bullitt. If we go it would be cool to see the car and meet you. Brandon

[70Nova4dr]

It's a newer Bullitt, not an old one .. but it's still cool

[NvrDun71]

Any Updates?

[mikem]

I finished the fan relays and the cooling set up at the end of last week. I finished running the fuel line today and should have the pump mounted over the weekend. I am waiting on a couple of small items to finish it up but they should be here next week.

I am pulling the drop spindles and returning to the stock ones. The steering arm was just too close to the sidewall. I have the brakes off and everything unbolted I am just waiting for my brother to help me on Sunday with a ball joint separator, a pickle fork and a second set of hands to work the jack under the control arm.

I don't think my fitting for my clutch master will show up until Monday or we would be bleeding the clutch too. Hopefully I can get that done Monday night or Tuesday morning.

We are hoping to fire it up on Sunday. As of right now I have to run the battery cables, mount the fuel pump and fill the radiator.

I added oil yesterday, sealed up the 10 bolt and filled it, and filled the tranny.

I want to back trace all my wiring prior to Sunday and reaffirm it is all hooked up.

I will have it flat bedded to the alignment shop and then drive it down the road to have the exhaust finished.

If everything actually works (and with the history of this project it won't) we should make the first 3 days of the Power Tour. If for some reason or another it does not work out we will probably be on the Tour in my brother's Impala again. He got the Pro-Flow set up and running and we just have to take it out and dial it in with the hand module.

[1971novaSS]

Sweet build! Wish i would have gone LSx motor. What are you going to do for fuel delivery? Cell? Stock with electric external pump? What fuel pressure does the LSx motor require?

[mikem]

I went with the stock fuel tank with an added line for return. I am using a Walbro 255 pump and the Corvette Fuel Pressure Regulator. The return line is only about 14". I believe the FPR regulates it to 58 PSI but that is just off the top of my head and it could be wrong.

[mikem]

Quick update:

I got the fuel system done over the weekend and the front end taken apart. I am going to ditch the drop spindles as the steering arm issues are just too much. I have the ball joints all popped but I need new upper ball joints now because the spindles are so much shorter. I will be calling SC&C later this morning.

I got the battery cables run from the trunk and mostly squared away.

The cold air system isn't complete yet but as long as I don't shut the hood I can hook up what I have.

I tried starting it but I keep blowing the 20 amp fuse for the fuel pump. I am going to have to take the rear seat out again and look for a short in the line.

It sounded like it really wanted to fire up! Right now all it has for exhaust is about 1 foot of pipe and a set of Hushpower Resonators.... I think it is going to be really loud :)

I turned it over enough to burp the air out of the oil pressure line so that is completely hooked now too.

The only other issue I ran into was the fuel gauge. As soon as it got power it swung over and pegged itself WAY past the Full mark. I will be calling Autometer to figure out what the problem is with that set up.

So close but it still no quite there!

[mikem]

Frustrating day. I have figured out it is not the fuel pump fuse I am blowing every time the key is switched on. It is the main harness fuse. I am slowly going back through every connection and wire looking for the issue. I am going to unhook the fans from my relay set up and try it tomorrow. I burned through 5 fuses today trying to diagnose the problem.

I really hate electrical problems. So many miles of wire and so little time.

I also noticed my serpentine belt was trying to jump the crank pulley. I think my power steering pump is slightly out of alignment and causing it to jump.

Autometer says the fuel gauge is not getting a good ground and that is my issue there. I guess that means dropping the tank again trying to get a good contact on a 38 year old sending unit.

I did get my last fitting for the clutch master and got the master bench bled.

Now if I can just figure out what ball joints to run to get my SPC arms to work with my stock spindles... never enough time in the day!

[MrQuick]

hang in there Mike, you'll get it,


Vince

[NvrDun71]

Some progress is better than No progress, sounds like you are getting really close to having her back on the road again. We need some more pics!

[mikem]

WOOO HOOO!!!! It lives!! I traced the wiring issue to a ground in the fan system. It was grounding to the frame rather than back to the PCM. I removed the ground and I stopped blowing the fuses.

I turned the key and immediately heard the fuel pump cycle. I did that 4 times and cranked it over. It jumped to life immediately! I noticed a few seconds later that it was pissing gas all over the garage floor. I shut it down and tightened up all my gas line fittings and tried again. This time it jumped to life without the mess.

It idles at about 750 rpm with 40 psi of oil pressure.

I spaced the power steering pump with some washers and tightened that back down. It has been running for about 10 minutes total and there is no sign of the belt trying to jump off like yesterday.

Here are some photos. Keep in mind I was just getting it started and I don't have the cold air system complete yet.

The front suspension is still apart while I wait for taller ball joints so it is stuck in the garage that is too tight. Hopefully it will be driving by the end of the week and I can get some outside shots.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/DSCF2774-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/DSCF2773-1.jpg
Not much for exhaust but better than open headers. It needs pipes to go back and turn out before I will drive it much.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/DSCF2768-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/DSCF2765-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/DSCF2763-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/DSCF2762-1.jpg

[mikem]

Today was the first time the Nova has been on the road since the fall of 2006 or maybe one drive early in 2007. I pulled it out of the garage and on to the street where I loaded it up to take it in for an alignment. It gets and alignment in the morning and then exhaust from the mufflers out the side and I should be rolling around tomorrow afternoon for a test drive.

Here are pics from the street waiting for the trailer.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/DSCF2811-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/DSCF2810-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/DSCF2809-1.jpg

[70TWO NOVA]

Looks tough! and I love that color, my brothers Nova was that color when he first bought it in High School!

[mikem]

It has been awhile but I thought I would give an update. The Nova runs great. I took it to the 1st day of the Power Tour and put 600 miles on in just that day. The suspension is awesome. I would put this up against my '04 GTO any day of the week and I am pretty sure the Nova would win. I averaged about 20 mpg for the trip, not too bad when most of the travel in Iowa was around 80-85 mph.

The car runs at about 180 degrees going down the road and the electric fans only kicked on 2 or 3 times on the whole ride down. The Edelbrock headers developed a leak at the collectors but Edelbrock sent me a new set and a couple t-shirts for free. The second set still didn't want to seat correctly. I ended up having to sand the coating off the back part of the header so the gasket would slide on properly. Once they seated like they were supposed to the leak was gone.

We ran into ran on the way down. The car is still not completely sealed off from the mini-tub and we ended up taking on a lot of water. We stopped when the rain did and soaked up the standing water with extra towels we had packed. Once the roads were mostly dry we got back on our way.

The only problem I had was one of the exhaust clamps dropped off about 20 miles from Newton, IA. Luckily I found a way to rig it for the rest of the trip and had no more issues.

I am still having some issues getting all the air out of the power steering system. I found a small leak in one of the connections so I fixed that and will try bleeding it again.

The weather has hampered my ability to drive it as much as I wanted too. Too much rain for a car that takes on water. I hope to get the back sealed up by next spring and maybe insulate and carpet the interior.

Here are a couple more pictures with the exhaust finished.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/DSCF2817-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/DSCF2818-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/DSCF2819-1.jpg

[96t/acj]

Very nice car, and a very nice build..........

[796spdbu]

I dig it! Looks menacing! How well did the Covan's dash insert fit? I have heard horror stories about how bad they fit. Id like to get one for my 72' Nova.

[Nessumsar]

How loud is the exhaust? I've wanted to do a side-exit exhaust, but with fear of it being too loud I haven't done it yet.

I wish someone made the Soft-8's in aluminum, I LOVE how they look on our cars!

[ssmike]

Looks great! I also dig the way the soft 8s look on the 3rd gens. Its very promising for me to hear how well the LS is treating you.....

[chevy6455]

Now that you have driven it a bit how do you feel about the HRTH suspension? Would you still consider something else or are you fairly satisfied with it?

[mikem]

The Covan's dash fit OK. I bought a blank and cut my own gauge holes. I had to drill a couple holes to attach it on the bottom of the dash as the pre-marked holes didn't line up. The carbon fiber finish is OK but looks like a printed pattern. Against the gauge faces it looks a bit off. I probably only notice because I stare at it all the time. I love the way the dash turned out. It is the way these cars should have come.

The exhaust isn't quiet by any means but it is hard to get a real gauge on it. There is no carpet and no insulation on the floor as well as nothing behind the back seat to separate the trunk. I love the Hushpower mufflers. They don't seem to have the drone you get with 40 series Flowmasters. It is by no means obnoxious but I am always running windows down so you can't carry on a coversation at highway speeds. Still quieter than 90% of the Harleys you see.

The Hotrods to Hell set up is great. I really dig the way the car handles. I would change very little about this car in its current set up. I wish I could find a way to run an X-pipe but it looks mean with the side exit exhaust.

Still getting some air out of the power steering system but less everytime I turn lock to lock.

I will have it rolling again later this week. My 15 year class reunion is coming up and I figure I will be the only person there with the car they had in high school :)

[mikem]

Well it has been some time but I really haven't gotten too many miles on the car. Nothing wrong with the drivetrain just too many holes in the car and the wife doesn't like smelling like exhaust fumes. So it went up to spend the winter at a body shop. Here are the pictures of the work as it is progressing this week. Very excited about it and trying to work on a paint scheme before the body work is done. I am thinking 2 tone with high metallic black over a dark metallic charcoal. Not sure what to use as a color break.

They are also fixing the work around the DSE minitubs where the shop that did my earlier work messed it up.

Here are some pictures.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/Markesan2012120400656-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/Markesan2012120400655-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/Markesan2012120400654-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/Trunkfloor-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/Outerfender-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/Driverfender-1.jpg

[TheBandit]

Awesome! I can't wait to see the new paint.

[mikem]

Update with some more pictures. This car is being done in my In-laws shop and they are working on it around other jobs. This is not a specialty shop but a body shop, so most of their work is repair rather than full projects like this one. It is also cool to have family working on it.

Here are some pictures as work has progressed. I have been helping as much as I can and try and make it to the shop at least once a week.

The pictures here are just a few as we have been working. We are eliminating all the body trim, emblems and side blinker lights. The only factory emblem that will be left on the car is the "Nova by Chevrolet" on the trunk lid. I am doing 2 main body colors with a thin color break in a third color. All three colors are new Camaro colors. It will be Carbon Flash Metallic on the top, Ashen Gray Metallic below the body line and separated by a thin Inferno Orange stripe.

They should start laying color next week if they don't get any new jobs!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5357_zps59577b59-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5363_zpsba344480-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5407_zps58289148-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5428_zpsc2c75072-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5480_zps4a6ce4ed-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5496_zps437b4da3-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5709_zps1b320470-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5740_zps24d72324-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5743_zpsf0cac651-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/IMG2013060501130_zps80f8a3d7-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5802_zps8d2a872c-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5891_zps8faa2144-1.jpg

[no go nova]

Nice work sucks about the mishaps but atleast you got to drive it.

[mikem]

Started edging the car yesterday. The door jams, insides of the doors, cowl, dash and trunk jam are painted. Super excited about the colors. The top color is really high metallic and looked awesome when we pushed it out in the sun.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5961_zps964add78-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF5961_zps964add78.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5966_zpsfd7edf3e-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF5966_zpsfd7edf3e.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5967_zps8328b4b9-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF5967_zps8328b4b9.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5968_zps831bb09e-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF5968_zps831bb09e.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5970_zps7c41a74c-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF5970_zps7c41a74c.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5974_zpsfcf013e5-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF5974_zpsfcf013e5.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5977_zps5f9bf1ec-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF5977_zps5f9bf1ec.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/DSCF5978_zps31642da0-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF5978_zps31642da0.jpg.html)

[CruizinKev]

oh yeah looks good!!

[bonecrrusher]

Those colors are going to look awesome!

[instro84]

nice lookin nova

[mikem]

Came out of the booth last night. Still a lot of little things to do and we have done no color sanding or buffing yet but it looks great!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/DSCF6180_zpsd8564a7f-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF6180_zpsd8564a7f.jpg.html)
In the shade you can barely see a difference in the top and bottom, very subtle and exactly what I wanted.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/DSCF6192_zpse88cb233-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF6192_zpse88cb233.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/DSCF6166_zps43735def-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF6166_zps43735def.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/DSCF6171_zps5ace618c-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF6171_zps5ace618c.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/IMG_0803_zpscf4b2e28-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/IMG_0803_zpscf4b2e28.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/IMG_0805_zpsd0bf9ecc-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/IMG_0805_zpsd0bf9ecc.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/DSCF6173_zps8228a602-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF6173_zps8228a602.jpg.html)

Thats all I have for now. More to follow as we finish it up!

[rickpaw]

Paint looks great.

[cactuss4]

turning out great.
Tory

[mikem]

Slow going as the shop has had too many other jobs to get the Nova buffed out. We are waiting on getting a couple last minute parts now anyway so they are holding it up more than anything.

The car has been sanded and had the 1st buffing. I have most of the hardware back on from the doors back. I am waiting on a new window felt for the driver's side quarter. The one I had gotten had one of the clips fall off and the other one broke. Hopefully that shows up soon and then I can get the quarter windows in. The rest of the glass is back in and the interior is starting to come back together. I don't have carpet yet or insulation so that will probably wait until winter.

I painted most of the interior pieces using SEM products and I am quite pleased with the results. The dash pad was not cracked so I painted it black. I also did the door panels and the kick panels.

Here are some pics of the interior and the exterior now that the 1st buffing is done.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/DSCF6838_zpsd741ab74-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF6838_zpsd741ab74.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/DSCF6824_zps2e50c112-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF6824_zps2e50c112.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/DSCF6825_zpsa77489b2-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF6825_zpsa77489b2.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/DSCF6817_zpscfdd0af5-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF6817_zpscfdd0af5.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/DSCF6732_zpscc89962b-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF6732_zpscc89962b.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/DSCF6731_zpsd3b15548-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF6731_zpsd3b15548.jpg.html)
The hole in the floor was so huge from my high school hack job we made this to seal it up. I left it a bolt in piece because it really makes getting to the shifter easy.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/DSCF6734_zps3c4b39a2-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF6734_zps3c4b39a2.jpg.html)
The only emblem on the whole car.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/DSCF6743_zps33cda0a4-1.jpg (http://s2.photobucket.com/user/mike53818/media/DSCF6743_zps33cda0a4.jpg.html)